Final group photo to mark the end of the shelter tour – a day of connection, activity, and shared experiences

Ms. Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission (AHoM), pictured with Embassy staff and officials from the Public Authority of Manpower (PAM) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).

PAM officials briefed Ms. Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission (AHoM), and Embassy staff on the range of services the shelter provides to its residents, including legal aid, healthcare, and psychological support

PAM officials briefed Ms. Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission (AHoM), and Embassy staff on the range of services the shelter provides to its residents, including legal aid, healthcare, and psychological support

Engaging with women residents at the shelter through indoor billiards – fostering connection and fun through sports and activities.

Ms. Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission (AHoM), signed the visitors’ book at the shelter, marking the Embassy’s meaningful visit and commitment to supporting the residents.

KUWAIT CITY, July 29: The South African Embassy in the State of Kuwait successfully commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day on 20 July 2025 with a meaningful visit to the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) women’s shelter in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, which supports expatriate workers facing legal or employment-related challenges. Led by Ms. Busisiwe Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission, the visit was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), specifically the Human Rights and Africa Affairs Departments, and PAM, reflecting Mandela’s enduring values of kindness, care, and humanity. The event honoured Nelson Mandela International Day, celebrated annually on July 18.

The Embassy staff was warmly received by officials from MoFA’s Human Rights Department and representatives of PAM. During the tour, Ms Mpungose and Embassy staff were briefed on intake procedures and the operational roles of the various governmental institutions supporting the shelter. The delegation observed the wide range of services provided to residents, including legal aid, healthcare, psychological counselling, and social support. PAM officials shared insightful information about the shelter’s residents and responded to questions from Ms. Mpungose and Embassy staff. In a spirit of engagement and solidarity, the South African Embassy dedicated 67 minutes, in tribute to Mandela Day, to acts of positivity and social support, including interactive activities with the residents, such as arts and crafts, indoor billiards, and outdoor volleyball, all aimed at promoting unity and well-being of the residents.

As part of the initiative, the Embassy generously also donated clothing items to the shelter to help meet the needs of the residents. Ms Mpungose commended the Government of the State of Kuwait for its ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to advancing Mandela’s legacy of service and humanity. She concluded by extending warm wishes to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, and continued peace and prosperity to the State of Kuwait. Ms Mpungose and the Embassy staff expressed their sincere admiration for the shelter’s resolute staff and their commitment to providing protection, care, and legal support to vulnerable women.

The Mission extended heartfelt thanks to PAM, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all staff involved for their hospitality and tireless efforts in upholding the values of human dignity and compassion. History Of The Nelson Mandela International Day and the 67 Minutes Nelson Mandela International Day was officially declared by the United Nations on November 10, 2009, recognising Nelson Mandel’s extraordinary contribution to peace, freedom, and human rights. The day is celebrated annually on July 18th, Mandela’s birthday.

This day encourages people around the world to honour Mandela’s legacy by taking action to improve their communities an promote social justice. The concept of 67 minutes symbolically represents the 67 years of Nelson Mandela’s life dedicated for fighting for equality, social justice and human rights. On Mandela Day, individuals are expected to spend at least 67 minutes doing something positive for others, reflecting Mandela’s lifelong dedication to making the world a better place.