July 1st marks the Nelson Mandela month with various activities planned to celebrate the former statesman’s legacy.
Mandela Day was officially declared by the United Nations (UN) in 2009 and is celebrated each year on his birthday, July 18th.
Fifty four climbers will be tackling Mount Kilimanjaro for the Trek For Mandela annual expedition which is aimed at raising funds to help young girls access sanitary towels.
This worthy cause is what has attracted the former Public Protector, Advocate Thuli Madonsela, to take part in this year’s expedition.
Advocate Madonsela, who is a champion of social justice and democracy, says giving back is important for nation building.
Madonsela hopes to summit Africa’s highest peak – Mount Kilimanjaro – with the hope of raising enough funds for Caring4 Girls programme.
This programme is expected to benefit up to two million girl children.
The climbers want to bring positive changes to their communities.
The SABC News team will also be taking part in this expedition.
The first group of 17 climbers are expected to leave for Tanzania in July to summit on Mandela Day while Madonsela will lead the second group to summit on Women’s Day – August 9th.
