As I write this, exploring ways to celebrate Mandela Day, we are in darkness. Loadshedding stage 4. Or is it 6? It doesn’t really matter because when the session ends, most times we’re not illuminated as there is some or other issue at the power station which means no power for a longer period of time. That’s on a good day.
Then there are days where the loadshedding leads to power outages that impact the reservoirs which means we are without water as well. I sound frustrated, don’t I? And to think, this is from someone living in the suburbs, with some sort of alternative to electricity and heating and charging my laptop (not to mention keeping the Wi-Fi on so my kids can survive)
Mandela Day in the Dark
Millions of South Africans live without electricity every day. In fact, power would be a luxury to those living in abject poverty. No roof over their heads. No food. No running water. No warmth in this cold winter. No possibility of a brighter future and only the reality of future generations enduring the same life. Unless we take the initiative to do more, to be of service to those in need.
Nelson Mandela Foundation: Plea for 2022
In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared Nelson Mandela’s birthday on the 18th July as Nelson Mandela International Day. In true spirit and symbolising everything that Nelson Mandela stood for, Madiba called on the people of the world to honour him by helping their communities. Since then, each year sees many people out and about volunteering their time and donating items to help alleviate the suffering of our fellow South Africans. To some it may seem in vain but to those in dire straits, every bit counts.
It’s been over 2 years since Covid took over the world, restricting everything we did. It’s a great time to celebrate our newfound “freedom” by going out and making a difference. In 2022 the Nelson Mandela Foundation is highlighting the plight of food security and climate change with the tagline, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
It doesn’t have to cost much. Get your friends together, convince your corporate employers to contribute, include your kids in something simple like making sandwiches or clearing out unused toys and clothes.
Charities you can support on Mandela Day
Find non-profit organisations waiting for your help, click here
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