Two Madiba statues to be unveiled on Mandela Day

Two statues of late former president Nelson Mandela will be unveiled on July 18 in Mthatha, Eastern Cape as part of international Nelson Mandela Day.

The programme spearheaded by the Nelson Mandela Museum is in partnership with the sport, arts, and culture department, the OR Tambo district municipality and the King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality.

The statues will be unveiled at the Nelson Mandela Museum Bhunga Building in Mthatha and Nelson Mandela Museum Youth and Heritage Centre in Qunu.

“The two statues will resemble Nelson Mandela as a statesman and the other as a traditionalist,” said government.

The museum and department will hand over a library at Zingisa Comprehensive High School as part of “making a difference” in the community.

A public lecture will be held on July 17 where sport, arts and culture minister Zizi Kodwa will be in attendance.

Government called on citizens to contribute to turning the tide against food insecurity and climate change in honour of Madiba’s legacy.

“There is no doubt South Africa is already experiencing the effects of climate change. The devastating floods of April 2022 and recently have worsened our food insecurity challenge as many farmers could not produce,” said acting government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa.

“Due to food shortages, the floods not only pushed prices higher; they also left many in dire poverty and without shelter. Consequently, in the true Madiba spirit, as we commemorate Mandela Month and Mandela Day, we urge you to look around your neighbourhood and identify those who may be in need of your help and do something to better their lives.”

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