Nelson Mandela celebrates his 94th birthday

Nearly 12 million children across South Africa kicked off the 94th birthday celebration for the country’s beloved first black president, with choruses of “Happy Birthday Madiba,” affectionately using Nelson Mandela’s clan name.

And to honour the legendary leader, communities in South Africa planned to dedicate 67 minutes of the day to volunteer work and projects for people in need — one minute to mark each of Mandela’s 67 years of service in public life.

After spending 27 years in prison for his fight against apartheid rule, Mandela became the country’s first black president in 1994. He was also awarded a Nobel Peace Prize.

For his birthday, tributes to Mandela poured in from around the world. Bill Clinton and daughter Chelsea paid him a visit on the eve of his birthday, and President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, sent their congratulations and good wishes.

Watch as celebrities including Bill Clinton and Sir Alex Ferguson join the celebrations for former South African president Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday:

Sources: BBC; Los Angeles Times

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