Moscow unveils new Nelson Mandela monument

The statue, located in an obscure corner in southwestern district of Moscow city, became a new symbol of friendship between Russia and South Africa, and possibly with other African countries.

On September 9, 2024, Moscow witnessed the important cultural and historical event – the unveiling of a monument to Nelson Mandela, symbolizing the recognition of his celebrated contribution to the fight for human rights and the liberation from colonial oppression on the African continent.

The monument was created by the Russian Military-Historical Society with the support of the Moscow Government. The sculptor is Mikhail Baskakov. 

It is located at the intersection of Michurinsky Prospect and Ramensky Boulevard.

In honor of this event, the Russian-African Club of Lomonosov Moscow State University created a film that deeply reveals the life path and achievements of this legendary South African statesman.

It tells the story of Nelson Mandela not only as an outstanding Father of the Nation and political figure but also as a person whose life and struggle became a symbol of resilience and courage worldwide.

The creators of the film sought to create a deep and comprehensive portrayal of Nelson Mandela – the man, the patriot, the leader. His principles of justice and goodness continue to motivate youth around the world, and for his merits, he received the people’s name “Madiba”, meaning “the beloved one”.

Back in July 2023, in honour of the 105th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's birth on 18 July 2023, the Moscow House of Nationalities opened a photo exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Nelson Mandela.

Visitors were be able to get acquainted with documentary photographs reflecting important periods in the life and social and political activities of Nelson Mandela - Childhood and youth, political and activist career, arrest and imprisonment, release and work as the President of South Africa, resignation and the last years of his life; all these stages are reflected in photographs.

The opening ceremony was attended by ambassadors and diplomats of African countries, leaders of African diasporas, heads of Russian authorities and the Moscow Government and representatives of scientific, educational, public, national and cultural organisations, and cultural figures.

The newly-unveiled statue continues to underscore Russia's ties with South Africa, and especially with the nation's globally-renowned figure of hope, Nelson Mandela.