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UN awards first Nelson Mandela Prize

Xinhua, July 25, 2015 Adjust font size:

Helena Ndume of Namibia and Jorge Sampaio of Portugal received the first-ever Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize at the UN Headquarters in New York on Friday.

The prize was established in June 2014 by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to recognize the achievements of those who dedicate their lives to the service of humanity by promoting the UN purposes and principles.

Ndume, a female ophthalmologist, has been treating blindness and eye-related illnesses in Namibia and throughout the developing world. Sampaio, the former president of Portugal from 1996 to 2006 and also the former mayor of Lisbon from 1989 to 1995, has been awarded for his contribution to his country.

UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, in a message to the awarding ceremony, expressed gratitude to the two laureates for helping to advance the mission of the United Nations, stressing that both " are recognized for their commitment to social justice and their actions to empower suffering people."

"As we reflect on Mandela's legacy, leadership and life, we must also commit to making a difference through individual and collective actions that promote positive change in our communities and our world," said UNGA President Sam Kutesa at the event.

The UNGA set up the Nelson Mandela Prize as a tribute to the late South African leader, known for his legacy of reconciliation, political transition and social transformation.

Friday's event is also part of the annual commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day, which is observed on July 18 every year. Endite