On the occasion of Nelson Mandela Day, the Universal Peace Federation Düsseldorf hosted a commemorative event on July 20, 2026, at its premises in Düsseldorf.
The event was held under the theme “Peace through Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela’s Healing Message for Our Time.” Mr. Sergio Brina, representing UPF Düsseldorf, opened the evening by welcoming the guests present. In his introductory remarks, he briefly outlined UPF’s central objectives and its work in promoting peace before handing over to the guest speaker, Mr. Carl-Wilhelm Bienefeld, chairman of LEBENSzeichenAfrika e.V.
Guided by the central idea “Inspiration for togetherness that heals wounds and builds bridges,” Mr. Bienefeld opened his lecture with observations on the current living conditions and poverty-related challenges in South Africa. He addressed the difficult realities still faced in many regions of the continent, including low life expectancy, high child mortality, the prevalence of HIV, and the continuing consequences of war, famine, and displacement.
The speaker subsequently reflected on South Africa’s history, with particular attention to apartheid as a state-organized system of strict racial segregation and oppression under white minority rule. His remarks underscored that this historical injustice continues, in many respects, to shape the social and economic challenges facing South Africa today.
A central focus of the lecture was Nelson Mandela’s life, character, and enduring example. Mr. Bienefeld recalled Mandela’s imprisonment in 1962 and the 27 years he spent in captivity until his release in 1990. Despite the long period of isolation, Mandela devoted himself after his release to South Africa’s peaceful transition. His historic commitment, for which he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, culminated in his election in 1994 as the country’s first Black president.
Mr. Bienefeld emphasized Mandela’s commitment to reconciliation rather than revenge. He illustrated this attitude at the moment of Mandela’s release with one of his best-known quotations: “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.” Mandela’s legacy also includes a profound message of perseverance and hope: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
In addition to the historical perspective, Mr. Bienefeld provided insights into his practical work in Uganda and neighboring African countries. He highlighted two key priorities for sustainable development. First, he emphasized the importance of education as a foundation for the future, quoting Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Second, he stressed the importance of targeted support for women, particularly through training initiatives in the field of nursing.
At the conclusion of the lecture, participants were given the opportunity to ask questions and take part in a discussion. In this context, Mr. Bienefeld also briefly presented the book Schicksals Pfad, to which he contributed as a co-author. The evening concluded with refreshments and personal conversations in a cordial atmosphere.