Nelson Mandela
18 July: Nelson Mandela International Day

UN declares 18 July Mandela Day

The United Nations has declared 18 July "Nelson Mandela International Day", in recognition of the former South African president's contribution to global peace and freedom.

Music with a message on Mandela Day

Some of the world's top musical talent gathered in New York on Saturday night, 18 July 2009, to put on a three-hour spectacle celebrating Nelson Mandela's 91st birthday and life as well as the launch of the Mandela Day initiative.

Video: 67 Minutes for Mandela

South Africans joined the rest of the world in celebrating Nelson Mandela's 91st birthday on 18 July 2009, while some people gave 67 minutes of their time to help their communities in support of the global Nelson Mandela Day initiative.

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46664 campaign against Aids

The fight against Aids is in our hands

Nelson Mandela is the driving force behind a global campaign to raise awareness of Aids and funds to fight the pandemic in southern Africa.

Nelson Mandela image gallery

Mandela gallery

Nelson Mandela is an icon of freedom - and a son, husband, father and grandfather. Our image gallery pays tribute.

Nelson Mandela profile

Mandela profile

Mandela's role in fighting apartheid and his ability to steer South Africa through the crisis of its rebirth earned him a world reputation as a statesman and peacemaker.

Nelson Mandela books

Mandela books

How many biographies can one man inspire? The jury's still out on this one: books about Nelson Mandela are a growth industry. Here are snap reviews of some of the classics.