South Africa’s Jewish community added its voice to the millions wishing former president Nelson Mandela happy birthday on his 85th on Friday.
Best wishes to ”a great son of South Africa” came from the chair, executive board and staff of the South African Zionist Federation, in association with the Jewish National Fund of South Africa, the Israel-United Appeal-United Communal Fund, the Women’s International Zionist Organisation, Maccabi South Africa and the Zionist Youth Movements.
”We wish you health and happiness on this special day; and we thank you for the ongoing efforts you have expended on behalf of the poor, the dispossessed, the disadvantaged and the underprivileged in South Africa,” a statement said.
”We laud you for the positive and peaceful changes you have brought about in this beautiful country, ensuring a peaceful transition to democracy for all; and as committed South Africans we take pride in the respect accorded you in the international community.
”We join South Africa and the world in saluting you; and we look forward to many more years during which you remain a major role-player in international political forums, fighting for the rights of all people,” the statement said. – Sapa