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In an interview with Xinhua in Johannesburg, Tapiwa said Africa must use the day to reflect on continent progress in promoting unity and democratic principals.
“This day is not for South African only. It’s for Africa, it’s for everyone who lives in South Africa,” Tapiwa said.
“We urge Africans in South Africa to participate. We need to use this day to thank the South Africa government for its hospitality to foreigners especially refugees and asylum seekers.”
GZF is an organisation of Zimbabweans in South Africa representing the interests of Zimbabweans in the Diaspora and other foreign nationals in South Africa.
The organisation values South African historical events and encourages its constituency participation, Tapiwa said.
Many Africa countries have joined Pretoria in commemorating the day and have declared it a public holiday. “This day must remind African governments to uphold the rule of law and have functional democracies such that people are free to purse their dreams.”
Africans here have joined locals in donating goods and volunteer their services for 67-minutes, all for a good cause as part of the Mandela Day initiative, which honors the legacy of Africa’s most loved politician who turned 95 on Thursday.
The initiative recognises 67 years of Mandela’s public service.
“This day must ring in minds of all Africa politicians that if you are a good leader your leadership values and legacy will prevail for ever,” Tapiwa said. “This day tells us that
Africans value peace, love, reconciliation and democracy in their countries, “ she added.
Mandela is respected for spearheading a peaceful transition from apartheid to democracy in South Africa despite being imprisoned for 27 years.
“As Africans we must realise that Mandela Day is there for us to reignite the spirit of reconciliation in Africa counties,” the Zimbabwean political activist said. Mandela is expected to spend his 95th birthday in a Pretoria hospital where he is receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection. His condition “is steadily improving”, according to the latest official update. — Xinhua.
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