Nelson Mandela stands tall in Hammanskraal

IIn Hammanskraal, on the outskirts of Pretoria, a statue of Nelson Mandela stands tall. The statue is believed to be the first life-size memorial of the former president. It was unveiled on 12 June 1999 in honour of the heroes who sacrificed their lives for a democratic South Africa.

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AAfter retirement from politics, Mandela started the Nelson Mandela Foundation that focuses on combating HIV/AIDS and supporting rural development and school construction.

IIt is believed that in an attempt to promote tourism in the area, Hammanskraal was chosen as the location. The statue was created by sculptor Phil Minnaar. Minnaar is renowned for his monumental works at Sol Kerzner’s Lost City, as well as other sculptures of famous South Africans and politicians.

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TThe residents of Madibaville are honoured to have the statue in their area. It is their constant reminder of how blessed they are to have Tata Madiba (Father of the Nation) in their midst, a man they will stay connected to forever. To them it is a reminder to work hard and make a success of the future as Madiba has opened up so many possibilities for us as a nation. The statue reminds the residents of the injustices suffered in the past and the way things have improved for the country since the end of apartheid.

The people have a lot of respect for what Nelson Mandela has done for South Africa. The statue is a symbol of hope, of love and of humanity. It’s definitely worth a visit.

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Mandela Statue in Hammanskraal

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