NSPCA mourns loss of patron-in-chief, Nelson Mandela
The NSPCA writes in dedication to the now deceased statesman and father of the nation, Nelson Mandela:
A man dedicated to humankind, to our country and to all her inhabitants, friend and foe, animal and human; he stood for equality throughout his life.
We are struck by immense sadness at the passing of our beloved patron, former President and Tata to the nation, Nelson Mandela, our Madiba.
For nearly 20 years Madiba has been the patron-in-chief of the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), and we have been truly honoured to call him one of our own.
Nelson Mandela showed a moral authority and strength of conviction throughout his life that has been inspirational on a global level.
He always stood his ground for what he believed to be right, even though others may have doubted him. Closer to home, we learn from his example and try to emulate it; seeking his courage even in the darkest hours, and we will continue to stand our ground for what is right, just as Madiba always did.
Mandela once said in an interview that he “would like to be remembered as part of a team, and I would like my contribution to be assessed as somebody who carried out decisions taken by that collective.”
As an organisation that protects animals from cruelty, working for the “five freedoms” that all species deserve, we, too, work as a team, that collective whole. That team included, for nearly two decades, our Tata and he will always remain a part.
Nelson Mandela is proof that good can outweigh bad; and we will take to heart his example to continue every day to protect the animals of South Africa, just as Madiba protected our country.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Mandela family, all of the people touched by his spirit, South Africa as a country, and globally as a whole. Today we all mourn the same loss – a man held in deep respect. May our leaders continue the legacy of peace and inclusion that our great Tata began.
