Today, former South African President and Global Icon, Nelson Mandela celebrates his 95th birthday. He was born July, 18 1918, and led the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. He became President in 1994 and led the country for a single term that lasted till 1999.
In 1995, Mandela motivated the South African National Rugby team, and gave them personal support. The team triumphed as winners of the Rugby World Cup of 1995 hosted by South Africa.
Former President Mandela was awarded The Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 jointly with Frederik Willem de Klerk “for their work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime, and for laying the foundations for a new democratic South Africa”.
Today is Mandela Day, officially recognized by the United Nations. Nelson Mandela has met with global leaders of different generations, from his era as President and after.
President Obama recently visited South Africa, paid homage to him in speeches, and visited Robben Island, where Mandela spent most of his 27 years prison term. Nelson Mandela is also addressed by his moniker, Madiba.
Nelson Mandela is currently hospitalized for lung infection. He has been there for more than a month, and reports say he’s recovering. Happy Birthday Madiba– you are an inspiration to the world.
