JOHANNESBURG – President Cyril Ramaphosa will join thousands of South Africans at the Mandela Day Walk and Run 2026 on Sunday, 19 July, as the country comes together to honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela through service, unity and active citizenship.
The annual event will take place at DP World Wanderers Stadium in Illovo, Johannesburg, with the President, an avid walker, expected to participate in the 5km family walk. The event starts at 7.30am and forms part of the country’s Nelson Mandela International Day commemorations, which are officially observed on 18 July.
Recognised by the United Nations in 2009, Nelson Mandela International Day celebrates Mandela’s life and legacy while encouraging people around the world to take action in building more just, inclusive and equitable societies.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa’s participation reflects the government’s commitment to preserving Mandela’s legacy.
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“President Ramaphosa’s participation underscores government’s commitment to preserving and advancing Nelson Mandela’s legacy while encouraging all South Africans to play an active role in combating poverty and inequality through service and active citizenship,” said Magwenya.
Around 10,000 participants expected
Organisers expect about 10,000 walkers and runners to take part in this year’s event, which features a 5km family walk, a 10km race and a 21km half marathon.
In addition to the sporting events, participants can look forward to live entertainment, community activities and partner activations as part of what organisers describe as one of the country’s biggest Mandela Day celebrations.
Inspired by Mandela’s well-known walks through the streets of Houghton, the event has grown into one of Johannesburg’s largest annual Mandela Day gatherings.
This year’s edition also launches the Nelson Mandela Legacy Sporting Series, a new four-event programme aimed at promoting community participation through sport across Southern Africa.
The series will continue later this year with the Legacy Ride4Hope cycling event, which will start in Maputo, Mozambique, before finishing at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal. It will conclude in October with the inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon in Cape Town.
This year’s Mandela Day theme
The 2026 Mandela Day theme is “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”, accompanied by the call to action, “It is in your hands now.”
The campaign encourages people to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to community service, symbolising the 67 years Mandela devoted to the fight for freedom, justice, equality and human dignity.
While Mandela Day is marked annually on 18 July, the initiative encourages acts of service throughout the year to create lasting social impact.
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The Mandela Day Walk and Run has become one of South Africa’s flagship commemorative events, bringing together government leaders, business, civil society and ordinary citizens in celebration of Mandela’s values of unity, healthy living and service to others.
Past editions have attracted Cabinet ministers, premiers, mayors and thousands of members of the public, reflecting the broad support for Mandela’s enduring vision of a more equal and compassionate society.
Organisers have urged participants to arrive early because of the expected turnout. Parking will be available at Top Rugby Parking, Redefined Property, Wanderers Golf Club and Fairways Primary School, while carpooling and ride-sharing are encouraged to help ease traffic congestion around the venue.
