U.S. Department of State, Honoring Nelson Mandela in South Africa

Honoring Nelson Mandela in South Africa

Staff from the U.S. Mission in Pretoria and the U.S. Consulate in Johannesburg consulate pose for a photo with local students after engaging in community service in honor of Nelson Mandela Day in Soweto, South Africa, on July 18, 2012. [U.S. Mission in Pretoria, South Africa photo/ Public Domain]

About the Author: Laura Santini serves as Assistant Information Officer at the U.S. Mission in Pretoria, South Africa.

For the U.S. Mission to South Africa, Mandela Day began at 8:00 a.m. on the chancery lawn with a resounding chorus of Happy Birthday to Nelson Mandela, who turned 94 on Wednesday.

Like no other world leader alive today, the former South African president and anti-apartheid icon is revered and adored by his fellow citizens, and the anniversary of his birth date inspires countless tributes at home and from abroad.

“By any measure, Nelson Mandela has changed the arc of history, transforming his country, continent, and the world,” said President and Michelle Obama in a statement of congratulations.

Hoping to set a record for the most people singing Happy Birthday in unison, several South African… more »