Kathmandu: The world is marking Nelson Mandela International Day by commemorating the South African leader’s contributions to freedom and peace. The United Nations has been observing this day since 2009, honoring Mandela’s lifelong struggle for humanity, human rights, reconciliation, gender equality, peace, justice, and unity.
According to National News Agency Nepal, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary life showed how one person can transform oppression, struggle, and subjugation into reconciliation, social justice, and unity. Guterres emphasized that Mandela’s legacy is a call to rekindle global commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity. This year’s theme underscores the message that the power to end poverty and inequality lies in the hands of ordinary people.
The Secretary-General highlighted Mandela’s belief that lasting change begins in neighborhoods and communities, rather than in capitals and boardrooms. Guterres urged, “On this important day, and every day, let us all be guided by Madiba’s lifelong commitment to freedom, justice, equality, and the rights that belong to every person on earth.”