One of the world’s greatest statesmen, Nelson Mandela will celebrate his 92nd birthday in the company of his family this Sunday. Mandela, the global icon who campaigned tirelessly for peace and emancipation of his people, will remain in Johannesburg for an event he has occasionally celebrated in Qunu, the village where he grew up.
After spending 27 years in prison between 1962 and 1990 for his role in fighting the apartheid regime, Madiba (his clan name) became the first President of post-apartheid South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He also served as one of the prime movers behind the country’s successful bid to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. On Sunday, some of the world’s sport stars, celebrities and renowned personalities will celebrate the life of a man who selflessly gave up three decades of his life in working towards equality for all and global peace. FIFA President, Joseph S. Blatter also paid a special tribute to Madiba on this special day.
Born in the rural village of Mvezo in the former Transkie, Madiba spent his childhood in Qunu village, about 20 kilometres from Mthatha. His early years were spent in this area until he left for higher education to Fort Hare University in the Eastern Cape. It is here that his thinking was shaped and began his devotion and quest for freedom. After moving to Johannesburg, Madiba began his open defiance to the system and was consequently arrested. Freed in 1990 after years of perennial struggling in Robben Island, he led his country to a peaceful transition. This year, Madiba’s birthday will be celebrated worldwide as ‘Nelson Mandela International Day’, an occasion endorsed by the United Nations to commemorate his “contribution to the culture of peace and freedom”. The Day will be observed annually every 18 July. Current South African President Jacob Zuma is also due to deliver a speech in Qunu on Sunday.
For more: FIFA.com - World celebrates Mandela's birthday
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