This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”.  Nelson Mandela, in addressing the scourge of poverty, suffering and deprivation said: “It is in your hands to make our world a better one for all, especially the poor, vulnerable and marginalised”. These words by our global icon and father of our nation are at the heart of our actions this Nelson Mandela Day in tackling poverty and inequality to build a society based on justice.

The day is an opportunity for citizens to recognise their individual power to change the world for the better. We can also play a part by raising awareness and expanding the reach of Mandela’s values which include fighting injustice, helping people in need and advancing reconciliation.  Government encourages citizens to donate their time to make a difference in their communities. Through our actions we can help make sustainable and long-term interventions in combatting climate change and food insecurity.

Considering the recent floods that occurred in the Eastern Cape Province, many families have lost their loved ones; some have been displaced, with some currently staying in temporary shelters that have been provided by government and various organisations. In this situation the learners are also mostly affected. In observing Mandela Day on 18 July, the DBE has identified the need to donate basic items such as clothes, blankets, school shoes, books, sanitary pads and toiletries. Departmental officials will be donating these items in an effort to collectively support communities whose lives have been disrupted by floods.

The donation will be handed over during the Inkosi Chief Albert Luthuli Oral History National Awards, which will take place in the Eastern Cape Province on 23 August 2025. This is a joint initiative by the Human Resource and Social Responsibility and the Social Cohesion and Equity in Education Directorates.