Speaking at the opening of the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory in Houghton, Zuma said the unveiling in December will form part of marking the buildings’ centenary.
Zuma officially opened the centre last night, which hosts a public facility and an exhibition documenting Mandela.
“Housed at this centre are some of the most important resources that chronicle the life and times of the founder father of our democratic nation and our icon, Tata Nelson Mandela,” Zuma said.
“These resources are an integral part of our nation’s heritage, in particular our liberation heritage. They are our nation’s treasures and they indeed need to be preserved.”
Zuma acknowledged the centre’s efforts to preserve the country’s heritage, saying that the exhibition, which includes books, photographs, documents and speeches, should spark dialogue within the country and globally.
He added that South Africans and the rest of the world “have a lot to learn” from the former statesman’s inspiring life and values.
Describing Mandela’s life as one of “selfless and utmost dedication to the freedom, democracy, equality, respect, and dignity for all”, Zuma added that all South Africans should be inspired to make everyday a Mandela Day.
Tokyo Sexwale, a Nelson Mandela Foundation trustee, said the centre is dependent on donations and called on South Africans to contribute whatever they can.
Mandela’s wife, Graca Machel, and his grandson, Mandla Mandela, as well as ANC veteran Ahmed Kathrada were also in attendance.
Meanwhile, Mandela’s condition remains stable but critical as he receives treatment at his Houghton home.
