Mandela Day inspires South Africans, migrants to promote unity against xenophobia

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing Xinhua, reported that Nelson Mandela International Day activities in Johannesburg became a platform for South Africans and African migrants to promote unity and reject xenophobia. In Soweto on Saturday, volunteers from local communities worked alongside migrants from countries including Zimbabwe, Malawi and Mozambique to clean public spaces and distribute food.

The report said the July 18 commemoration, which asks people to give at least 67 minutes of service in recognition of Mandela’s 67 years of public struggle for justice and equality, was marked across South Africa through neighborhood cleanups, meals, clothing donations and support for vulnerable groups. In Alexandra township, migrants and residents also joined efforts to repaint classrooms and deliver food parcels.

Participants quoted in the report described the day as a reminder of shared humanity and the value of building relationships across nationality. Raymond Rutendo Mafunga, director of Ruemaf Development Projects in Johannesburg, said Mandela’s ideals of dignity, equality and respect remain relevant as South Africa deals with migration pressures. He also noted that lawful migration management should not be used to excuse violence or discrimination.

The article placed the events against South Africa’s history of periodic xenophobic attacks, often associated with unemployment, economic pressure and competition for resources. It said many volunteers viewed Mandela Day not only as community service, but as a renewed commitment to Ubuntu and social cohesion in a diverse society.