国际英语新闻:S. Africa marks 1st anniversary of Mandela's death

PRETORIA, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of South Africans on Friday commemorated the first anniversary of Nelson Mandela's death as the country's Acting President Cyril Ramaphosa urged the whole nation to keep Mandela's legacy alive.

Ramaphosa made the remarks while addressing South Africans who attended the main celebrations at the Freedom Square in Pretoria where the main ceremony was held.

A wreath laying ceremony was performed at the government offices at the Union Buildings.

Mandela's family, government officials and former war veterans laid colourful flowers at the feet of a huge statue of Mandela that was erected soon after his death.

"He taught us to build the nation based on respect for each other, no matter what our differences; tolerance to others no matter how our prejudices may be; compassion for the weak and poor; above all perseverance in the face of adversity; fortitude in the face of fear; forgiveness in the face of humiliation and humility in the knowledge that we are all equal," said Ramaphosa.

"As we gather here, a year later, to remember our beloved father, we are bound to recall that only through a collective effort of progressive humanity can we ensure global peace and security," Ramaphosa said.

Mandela's wife Gracha Machel also called on South Africa and the world at large to do more in eradicating poverty, saying this was Mandela's greatest wish.

"It is up to everyone in the world to take a stake from his legacy of goodness and forgiveness," she said.

She thanked the world for standing with her family at the time when Mandela died. "We cannot thank you enough for your support and deep love," said Machel.

The ruling African National Congress also celebrated the life of Mandela.

"A product and marker of history, comrade Nelson Mandela lived his life pursuing the values and principles of the African National Congress (ANC).

"Chief among these was the pursuit of equality, unity, reconciliation and nation building," said ANC National Treasurer Zweli Mkhize.

Commemorations were also held at Nelson Mandela's rural home in Qunu. Villagers and some of the members of Mandela's family embarked on a fun walk from Mandela's home to the local youth centre.

Those who attended the ceremony were also treated to a boxing match to remind them about the life of Mandela who was a boxer before he became the first black President of South Africa.

Workers' unions throughout the country also commemorated the life of Mandela who spent 27 years in prison for fighting against the oppressive apartheid regime.

"He inspired and motivated mine and construction workers on many occasions to take education seriously so that they can empower themselves and their communities," said Livhuwani Mammburu, the spokesperson of the National Union of Mineworkers.

The corporate world also joined the commemorations with the mining giant Anglo American commending Madiba for his contribution to democracy.

Khanyisile Kweyama, Anglo American Executive Director said, "Madiba was integral to the ushering in of democracy in South Africa and he led our country with distinction, stature and humility throughout his presidency."

Ordinary South Africans could not be left out of the celebrations. "I am grateful to have been born in a country that was ruled by such a great leader. I managed to finish my university education because of the freedom, which Mandela and others brought for us," said Livhuwani Mazani, from Limpopo.

Twenty-three year old Accountant Vusi Magubane urged other youths to emulate Mandela's determination.

"Tata Madiba has taught me that if you have a dream in life never give up before achieving it. Imagine staying in prison for 27 years without giving up and at last he secured the freedom that he was fighting for," Magubane said.

"I want to encourage the youth to vigorously pursue their dreams in life and never to give up whatever happens," Magubane added.

Mandela died on Dec. 5, 2013 at the age of 95.