Pretoria - Thousands of people came in their numbers yesterday to the Union Buildings to take part in the Mandela Remembrance Walk and Run.
The occasion was hosted in honour of Nelson Mandela and revellers remembered the last moments when his mortal remains were transported in the Capital City after his death nine years ago.
Mandela’s remains were moved from Kgosi Mampuru via Church Square, via Lillian Ngoyi, the Palace of Justice and via Tshwane House until they reached the Union Buildings.
Participants came from all walks of life to take part in the 5km walk, 10km and 21km races.
Last year, runners took part in a virtual event from across the globe because of the Covid-19 restrictions.
Runners were the first to hit the road at 7am and were followed by walkers at 9am after the runners had reached the finishing line.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who thanked the crowd for coming through, said the occasion was not for making long speeches, but to pay homage to Mandela.
“We want this day to grow bigger and bigger and better so that we can always remember Nelson Mandela,” he said.
He also announced that there was a plan in the pipeline to host an ultra-marathon from Joburg to Pretoria to celebrate Freedom Day on April 27 next year.
“We can’t be outdone by the Comrades Marathon. I want a Comrades Marathon that comes from Joburg to Tshwane on April 27. That is Freedom Day. We will plan it so that we can come here and celebrate. I want to assure you that gone are the days when athletics, sporting activities are going to Durban. Everything must happen in Joburg, Tshwane, the West Rand, Ekurhuleni and Sedibeng,” Lesufi said.
Dignitaries, including Lesufi, MEC Sports, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe and Nelson Mandela Foundation chief executive Sello Hatang laid wreaths at the statue of Mandela in honour of his legacy.
Hatang said the foundation had plans to introduce a 42km race next year.
Tshwane mayoral committee member Kingsley Wakelin said: “The Nelson Mandela Remembrance walk is close to the city’s heart. It is the celebration of the world icon who contributed mainly towards making our nation a better place for all.
“As a champion of reconciliation, Madiba led a divided South Africa ravaged by apartheid to a democratic country of unity. He inspired all of us. He inspired a deeply divided nation to reconcile their differences and be committed to a united democratic state.”
The event was abuzz with excitement as people were entertained by local artists. Families and friends used the occasion to socialise and have fun at the Union Buildings.
The atmosphere was exhilarating with revellers stomping their feet and dancing.
Pretoria News