NHC commemorates the 35th anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s release

On 11 February 1990, South Africa witnessed a historic turning point in its transition to democracy with the release of Nelson Mandela from Victor Verster Prison in Cape Town. To commemorate this momentous occasion, The National Heritage Council (NHC) visited the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg to honour this pivotal moment of the country’s history.
This day was not only of national importance but was celebrated globally after liberation struggle stalwart spent 27 years behind bars for his role in the fight against apartheid. He became South Africa’s first democratic president in 1994, embodying the ideals of unity and reconciliation.
“This day shall never be forgotten as it marked the end of the apartheid regime, where the oppressed majority of black people saw hope and deliverance in Tata Mandela after more than three centuries of racial injustice. He emerged as a symbol of resilience, forgiveness and leadership,” said Mr Tau Masemola, Chairperson of the NHC who was in attendance at the Nelson Mandela Foundation site visit.

During the visit, the council engaged with exhibits featuring letters, photographs, memorabilia, artworks, newspaper articles documenting Mandela’s imprisonment since 1962, his release and the years that followed. His profound contributions to ending apartheid and fostering racial reconciliation continue to shape South Africa’s democratic landscape.
“Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another!” these are the words we need to carry and remember as South Africans for a united and non-racial society,” concluded Mr Masemola.

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Caption: From left to right: Dr Thabo Manetsi (CEO of the NHC), Prof. Mbongiseni Buthelezi (CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation), Mr Tau Masemola (Chairperson of the NHC), and Mr Khwezi ka Mpumlwana, Resistance and Liberation Heritage Programmes Manager.

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