In a fitting tribute to Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy, Telkom has stepped in to restore the air-conditioning system at the Nelson Mandela Foundation’s archive, ensuring the preservation of Madiba’s invaluable contributions to South Africa’s history. This intervention not only safeguards a national treasure but also aligns with the spirit of Mandela Month, a time dedicated to service, unity, and uplifting communities.
When the system that controls the ambient temperature of the Mandela Archive broke down, threatening Madiba’s personal papers and artefacts, Telkom stepped in to fund the refurbishment of the air conditioning system and the ceiling.
Without proper climate control, these items, which are part of a precious asset, can degrade and even perish.
This collaboration between the Telkom Foundation and the Nelson Mandela Foundation underscores Telkom’s commitment to social impact programmes.
“Madiba personified the qualities of compassion, responsibility, and unity, and our role in refurbishing the Archive aircon and ceiling reflects Telkom’s belief in the importance of preserving his legacy, and of undertaking projects which have a lasting impact,” said Dr Patrick Sekgoka, Telkom Foundation Board Trustee. “By helping preserve these archives, we’re not just honouring history-we’re keeping it alive for future innovators, activists and dreamers.”
It is fitting that this handover takes place during Mandela Month, when corporates and individuals pledge their time and other resources to acts of service to others, to honour Madiba’s legacy.
“We are deeply grateful to Telkom for their swift and generous support in safeguarding Madiba’s archival materials. This intervention ensures that future generations will have access to his life’s work and the lessons it holds. Partnerships like these are vital in sustaining his legacy and advancing the values he stood for,” added Dr Mbongiseni Buthelezi, CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Telkom’s contribution aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on sustainable infrastructure (SDG9) and the preservation of cultural heritage (SDG11).
This contribution not only protects a national treasure but also reinforces its commitment to education and youth empowerment, key pillars of Mandela’s vision for a just and equitable society.
In Madiba’s honour, Telkom, through the Telkom Foundation, celebrated a number of key milestones in its work to empower the youth and to equip them for the digital economy. In Limpopo, 1,000 learners received tablets and listened to an inspiring lecture given by Telkom Foundation board trustee, Dr. Patrick Sekgoka, in honour of revered maths teacher, Professor L.D. Nxumalo.
A further 660 unemployed young people have benefited from a MICT SETA-accredited 12- month skills development programme, with many more coming through in the months to come.
Earlier this month, learners in the Free State graduated from Telkom Foundation’s Coding and Robotics training course, bringing the total number of graduates to 236.
Lastly, on Mandela Day, 18 July, a Toys for Good Workshop will teach employees and early childhood development (ECD) caregivers how to create toys from upcycled materials, for a waste-free and sustainable future. All the toys that are made on the day will be donated to ECD centres.
“Through these initiatives, Telkom reaffirms its dedication to building a brighter, more inclusive future for South Africa, while paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela,” Sekgoka concludes.