United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on governments and citizens around the world to honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy by taking concrete action to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality and build more inclusive societies.
In his Saturday message to mark Nelson Mandela International Day, Guterres described the late South African leader as “a towering figure of peace, reconciliation, justice, and human rights.”
Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated annually on July 18th—the birthday of the late South African anti-apartheid icon and president.
According to update on the UN website, it is a global call to action encouraging individuals to honor Mandela’s legacy by dedicating 67 minutes to community service, symbolizing the 67 years he spent fighting for social justice.
The official theme for 2026 is “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity
Highlighting this year’s theme, he said Mandela was “also a clear-eyed champion of poverty eradication and equality.”
“He knew that ending poverty is not an act of charity.
