​In the true spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day, the City of Johannesburg, through the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), came together to dedicate 67 minutes of service to Chancellor House, one of the city's most significant heritage landmarks. Led by the MMC for Development Planning, Cllr Eunice Mgcina, together with the JDA Chief Executive Officer, Themba Mathibe, JDA employees rolled up their sleeves to participate in a clean-up of Chancellor House and the surrounding precinct in Ferreirasdorp.

The initiative formed part of Mandela Day's global call to action, encouraging individuals to devote 67 minutes of their time to improving the lives of others and caring for the communities in which they live and work.

As the former home of Mandela & Tambo Attorneys, South Africa's first Black-owned law firm, Chancellor House occupies a special place in the country's history. From these offices, Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo challenged apartheid legislation and defended countless South Africans against injustice.

The clean-up coincides with the City's ongoing refurbishment of Chancellor House, which is currently being implemented by the JDA on behalf of the City of Johannesburg. The restoration project will preserve this provincial heritage site for future generations while contributing to the revitalisation of Johannesburg's historic inner city.

Cllr Mgcina said the initiative demonstrated that preserving Johannesburg's heritage extends beyond infrastructure projects. "Mandela Day reminds us that meaningful change begins with service. By caring for Chancellor House and its surrounding precinct, we honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo while contributing to a cleaner, more welcoming inner city that all residents can be proud of."

Mathibe, said the day reflected the Agency's commitment to building cities that honour both history and community. "As we continue restoring this historic landmark, it is fitting that JDA employees dedicate their Mandela Day to caring for the precinct that surrounds it. Small acts of service like these strengthen our communities and reinforce the values that Madiba lived by."

As South Africans continue to honour Nelson Mandela's legacy, the City of Johannesburg remains committed to preserving the places that tell the story of the country's journey to democracy while fostering a spirit of active citizenship and service.

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