July 18 for Mandela Day
Published:Wednesday | November 11, 2009 | 1:10 PM
The United Nations General Assembly has declared July 18 as Mandela Day, to mark the contribution of Nelson Mandela to world freedom.
The resolution was introduced by South African Ambassador, Baso Sangqu.
He described his former President as an icon and a symbol of hope whose life had mirrored United Nations\' ideals.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation in South Africa, said it is pleased about the UN\'s declaration.
Charities associated with the former South African leader have been campaigning for such a day for some time.
July 18 was chosen because it’s Nelson Mandela\'s birthday.
He turned 91 earlier this year.