UN memorializes 'Nelson Mandela Day' on Jul 18

New York, Jul 18: UN will observe the first ever annual 'Nelson Mandela Day' on Sunday, Jul 18 2010 in the honour of the Nobel honoree and the father of the new South Africa.

The resolution to commemorate Mandela's birthday on Jul 18 as 'Nelson Mandela Day' was adopted by the world body in Nov 2009.

The memorialization infact conveys the world's appreciation for the 'great man' who suffered for the sake of people everywhere, said Ali Treki, UN General Assembly President.

Mandela who turns 92 on JUl 18, 2010 was convicted of sabotage and other crimes and sentenced to 27 years imprisonment during his fight against apartheid in South Africa. He had been the head of African National Congress' armed wing. He was freed in 1990. He became the nation's first president to win the fully democratic election and administered the nation from 1994-1999.

Thousands of volunteers from Madrid, the largest city in Spain, will host a 6.7 km charity 'walk' in Retiro Park to honour him and show their solidarity with Nelson Mandela Day.

OneIndia News