JCPZ Marks Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 Through Community Service and Environmental Action
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day 2026 with a series of community upliftment, environmental conservation and park revitalization initiatives across the City of Johannesburg.
Under this year's global theme, "It's Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity," JCPZ is honouring Madiba's legacy by encouraging residents, employees and partners to work together in creating greener, safer and more inclusive communities.
Honouring Madiba's Legacy
The City's Mandela Day programme begins on 14 July 2026 at Thokoza Park in Soweto, where former President Nelson Mandela planted a Celtis Africana (White Stinkwood) tree in 2008. The commemorative site, later recognized with a Blue Plaque by the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation, serves as a lasting reminder of Madiba's commitment to environmental stewardship and nation building.
Revitalizing Lilly Street Park
The flagship Mandela Day event will take place on 23 July 2026 at Lilly Street Park in Drieziek, Orange Farm.
Previously identified as one of the City's priority rehabilitation sites, the park is being further enhanced through a collaborative effort between JCPZ, City departments and strategic partners. Improvements include the revitalisation of the community food garden, installation of additional playground equipment and park furniture, tree planting, repainting of park infrastructure and general upgrades to create a safe and welcoming recreational space for residents.
The project demonstrates JCPZ's ongoing commitment to transforming neglected public spaces into thriving community assets.
Tree Planting and Conservation
As part of the Nelson Mandela International Day Global Tree Planting and Tree Advocacy Campaign, JCPZ will join conservation partners on 17 and 18 July 2026 under the theme "One Legacy. One Planet. One Tree at a Time."
The campaign will see 67 trees planted across selected sites, including botanical gardens, Gautrain stations and community spaces, promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
In the spirit of giving, SANBI, Pretoria Zoo, Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden and Joburg Zoo have collectively donated 268 tickets to provide underprivileged individuals with access to South Africa's biodiversity and conservation attractions.
Mandela Day at Joburg Zoo
On 18 July 2026, Joburg Zoo will host a conservation volunteer initiative focused on removing invasive Bug Weed to help protect indigenous biodiversity and improve habitats for wildlife.
The celebrations continue on 19 July 2026 with the Zoo Trot for Mandela Day, where participants can take part in a 6.7 km walk celebrating Nelson Mandela's 67 years of public service while promoting healthy living and environmental awareness.
Join Us in Making a Difference
In addition to these flagship events, JCPZ employees across all seven regions will participate in community outreach activities that support local neighbourhoods and promote active citizenship.
This Nelson Mandela International Day, JCPZ invites residents, community organisations and volunteers to join hands in restoring public spaces, protecting the environment and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Together, we can honour Madiba's legacy by creating cleaner, greener and more resilient communities—because it is still in our hands to build a better Johannesburg.
