South African High Commission celebrates 99th Birthday of Nelson Mandela

The High Commission of South Africa yesterday celebrated the 99th Birthday of Nelson Mandela.

The 99th birthday of Nelson Mandela fell on 18th July 2017. Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected President of The Republic of South Africa in 1994. His Presidency ended the longstanding apartheid in which white ruled over blacks and saw the birth of democracy and equality among all citizens. He is considered the father of the democratic South African nation.

He was also active in combating poverty, encouraging land reform, expanding health services, supporting education and setting an example of peace, anti-racism and human rights adherence to other nations.

The United Nations designated 18 July as Nelson Mandela International Day in 2009. It is celebrated on Mandela’s birthday July 18th, in an effort to recognize the impact of Mandela’s values and the contribution to humanity. A concert was organized by the High Commission of South Africa in Colombo and the Guitar Association of Sri Lanka with the participation of local artists on 18th July 2017 at Russian Centre, Colombo 7 at 7.00 p.m. to mark this date.