February 10, 2010 – Days before the 20th anniversary of his release from prison, Nelson Mandela attended an intimate gathering at his Johannesburg home with family, friends and comrades.
Several of the members of the National Release Committee, which was set up to co-ordinate Mr Mandela’s return home after his release from prison, shared memories at a lunch hosted by Mr Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi. Mr Mandela joined the group for champagne and cake and chatted with them for more than an hour.
Businessman Cyril Ramaphosa, who was Chair of the National Reception Committee, led a toast to Mr Mandela, in which he hailed him as an inspiration. He added that his sacrifices in liberating the country would never be forgotten.
Among those who attended the gathering were: Zindzi Mandela, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Graça Machel, Luvuyo Mandela [great-grandson], Ndileka Mandela [granddaughter], Zwelabo Mandela-Hlongwane [grandson], Sizwe Hlongwane [grandson], Ahmed Kathrada, Cyril Ramaphosa, Trevor Manuel, Rev Frank Chikane, Roseberry Sonto, Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, Farieda Omar, Christo Brand [former prison warder], Valli Moosa, Hilda Ndude, Murphy Morobe, Sidney Mufamadi, Bulelani Ngcuka, Alf Kumalo, Sonwabile Mancotywa [National Heritage Council], Babalo Mdikane [National Heritage Council].
A video of his celebration is available on the site.
Cyril Ramaphosa, Roseberry Sonto, Trevor Manuel and Saki Macozoma.
Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Zindzi Mandela listen while Cyril Ramaphosa remembers the day.
(Image: Nelson Mandela Foundation)
Trevor Manuel and Ahmed Kathrada.
Nelson Mandela, members of the National Reception Committee, members of Mr Mandela’s family and a former prison warder of Mr Mandela, Christo Brand.