In
November 2009, the UN General Assembly declared 18 July as "Nelson
Mandela International Day" in recognition of the former South African
President's contribution to the culture of peace and freedom. General
Assembly resolution A/RES/64/13 recognizes Nelson Mandela's values and
his dedication to the service of humanity, in the fields of conflict
resolution, race relations, the promotion and protection of human
rights, reconciliation, gender equality and the rights of children and
other vulnerable groups, as well as the uplifting of poor and
underdeveloped communities. It acknowledges his contribution to the
struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of
peace throughout the world.
The UN
resolution urges all countries, the UN, civil society, business and Non
Governmental Organizations to celebrate this day by dedicating time
towards community service. In line with the essence of Nelson Mandela
Day, the focus of this event will be on giving the gift of time.
This day
is intended to encourage people to dedicate their service to values that
will improve our world and support the development of children. We hope
you will join us in this commemoration.
This year
will be the first to be commemorated after Nelson Mandela lost his life
in December last year at the age of 95. The Nelson Mandela
International Day is a call to everyone to devote 67 minutes of time to
helping others, as a way to mark Nelson Mandela International Day.
For 67
years Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity — as a
human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, an international
peacemaker and the first democratically elected president of a free
South Africa.
You are
invited to commemorate the 67 minutes through community service at Sinza
Special needs school in Kijitonyama area-behind Mabatini police station
(off Africa Sana road) in Dar es Salaam. Basically, activities that
would be undertaken would involve cutting grass, painting, spending time
with the children, cleaning, cooking and supporting the school.
Please
feel free to bring any tools or cleaning materials that could assist in
performing this community service. Any donations of clothing, spades and
hoes, toys, books, meals, would also be welcomed.
Event: Nelson Mandela International Day
Where: Sinza Special needs school Kijitonyama area behind Mabatini police station off Afrika Sana road
When: Friday, 18th July, 2014 from 09:30am – 12:00pm
What: Voluntary community service work
The media advisory has been issued by Stella Vuzo, UN Information Center(UNIC) 0767 100 902.