and Library Handover with the Kwesto Foundation at the Setumo Sephethe Primary School in the North West Province on 18 July 2026, to harness Madiba’s legacy in service of a global challenge towards alleviating poverty, inequality and injustice.
The day's activities saw the Deputy Minister and partners roll up their sleeves to paint classrooms, demonstrating the power of collaboration in creating an inspiring learning environment for learners. The initiative embodied the spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day by showing that acts of service, no matter how small, can have a lasting impact on communities.
A key highlight of the commemoration was the official opening of the Kwetso Library, reaffirming a shared commitment to promoting literacy, expanding access to knowledge, and creating opportunities for learners. More than a collection of books, the library is a vibrant space where curiosity will be nurtured, imaginations will flourish and a lifelong love for reading will take root. Kwetso Foundation Chairperson, Mr Gideon Mahlangu, reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to advancing literacy, education, and community development. He described the library as a gateway to knowledge and opportunity and acknowledged the contributions of partners, including Rama Mix, City Parks and Mrs South Africa, whose support made the initiative possible.
Deputy Minister Mhaule affirmed that “as we commemorate Mandela Day, we open a door for every child at Setumo Sephethe Primary School to the imagination, knowledge and possibilities as we hand over a future, and not merely a building. Madiba is a symbol of hope, commitment, tolerance and perseverance, reminding us that literacy is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and building a prosperous nation. She encouraged learners to embrace reading as a lifelong habit, describing libraries as places where young minds develop the skills needed to shape their future. Reflecting on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, she reaffirmed that education is a shared responsibility and called on government, the private sector, and communities to continue working together to foster a culture of reading and lifelong learning for generations to come”.
Dr Mhaule added, “on behalf of the Department of Basic Education, we trust that the school will ensure that its learners benefit to the fullest from this facility, for many years and many generations of learners to come, to provide a well from which our children and communities can drink from. Let this library stand as proof of what we can achieve when government, business and community walk together in the service of a child's future, starting at the foundation phase. Strong, deep foundations will ensure that what is built does not collapse”.
Mrs South Africa 2025, Carika Bebb, encouraged partners and stakeholders to continue investing in South Africa's children, emphasising that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for transformation. She reminded those in attendance that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, whilst calling for continued collaboration to uplift communities and build a brighter future.
Nelson Mandela cared deeply about children and their education. International Mandela Day remains a call to action for individuals, communities, government departments and stakeholders to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles, and to enhance positive impact within South African communities.