Honouring Mandela Day through NHC Mandela Ubuntu Initiative

In a heartfelt tribute to the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, the National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) commemorated Mandela Day on Friday, 18 July 2025, with a meaningful visit to Jehovah Jirah Orphanage in Soshanguve, Gauteng. The Ubuntu initiative aims to extend Mandela Day into a Mandela Year by inculcating the spirit of ubuntu as part of our living heritage. Through this initiative, the NHC provides support to one community project in each of the nine provinces.

This year, the Mandela Ubuntu Initiative was celebrated under the theme “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”. The NHC’s Nelson Mandela Ubuntu Initiative is a cornerstone of its nation-building efforts, deeply rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, “I am because we are “, which champions humanity, community, and mutual care. This project extends beyond a single day, embodying the spirit of “make every day a Mandela Day” by encouraging sustained efforts to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans facing destitute conditions.

Speaking at the event, Ms Matanato Ngwaila, the NHC Preservation and Promotion Coordinator, highlighted that the work being done by the Jehovah’s Jirah Orphanage demonstrates the spirit of ubuntu and social cohesion. “We are living in a society where we as Africans have adopted the system of caring about ourselves, not others, but through this orphanage, it is evident that we still have people who care. As NHC, we are reclaiming Ubuntu for the better societies, “she explained.

The NHC played its part during the commemoration. The staff members dedicated their time and efforts to various activities aimed at uplifting the children and improving the facilities at Jehovah Jirah Orphanage. The activities included handing over essential groceries, engaging in gardening activities, painting the walls of the orphanage, and participating in fun activities with the children.

Mandela Day is celebrated annually on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. This day is a global call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to reflect on Mandela’s enduring values and to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society.