First Lady Michelle Obama meets Nelson Mandela during an official visit to South Africa

Washington.
July 16, 2012

On July 18, former South African president Nelson Mandela turns 94 years old. It will be a day of service in the United States and around the world, having been designated as such by the United Nations in recognition of Mandela’s contributions to peace and freedom.

On the occasion of last year’s Nelson Mandela International Day, President Obama remarked, “Michelle and my daughters, Sasha and Malia, recently met Madiba [the Xhosa clan name by which he is known in South Africa] during an official visit to South Africa that focused on service, youth leadership, education and healthy living. Their time with Madiba was the most moving part of their trip. Mandela’s legacy exemplifies wisdom, strength and grace, and on the anniversary of his birth we salute the example of his life.”

Here, first lady Michelle Obama, in South Africa in 2011, visits with Mandela at his home.