KABUL - As the world marks Nelson Mandela International Day today in recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, United Nations officials – from New York to the Afghan capital of Kabul – have expressed their hopes that the global figure’s example can serve as an inspiration in efforts to build a better world.

In his message for the occasion, which also coincides with Mr. Mandela’s 95th birthday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said that at the heart of the Day is good works for people and the planet.

“Its theme – ‘take action, inspire change’ – is meant to mobilize the human family to do more to build a peaceful, sustainable and equitable world,” Mr. Ban said. “This is the best tribute we can pay to an extraordinary man who embodies the highest values of humanity.”

Declaring 18 July as ‘Nelson Mandela International Day’ in November 2009, the UN General Assembly recognized Mr. Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity in the fields of conflict resolution, race relations, the promotion and protection of human rights, reconciliation, gender equality and the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, as well as the upliftment of poor and underdeveloped communities. It also acknowledged his contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.

The ailing former South African President spent 27 years in prison until 1990 while fighting the apartheid regime. He was elected the country’s first black president in 1994.

Mr. Mandela has been in a hospital for lung infection since 8 June. In a statement earlier today, South Africa’s current President, Jacob Zuma, reportedly said that Mr. Mandela’s health is “steadily improving.”

“This year’s commemoration… comes at a moment of deep reflection on the life and work of Madiba [Mr. Mandela’s clan name], as the universally revered leader remains in the hospital. As we extend our best wishes to President Mandela on his 95th birthday, let us also give tangible meaning to our feelings of concern by taking action on behalf of others,” Mr. Ban said.

“At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Mandela, his family and with all the people of South Africa. We are united in admiration for a giant of our times,” he added.

Speaking in Kabul, the Secretary-General’s Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan, Nicholas Haysom, expressed his hope that the acts and words of Mr. Mandela can provide inspiration to Afghans as their country prepares for its historic presidential election next year.

“I hope… that they realize from South Africa’s experience just how important it is for leaders and potential leaders – at whatever level, whether it be at the national or the village level – to be bigger than the divisions that can tear communities apart,” said Mr. Haysom, a South African national responsible for political affairs at the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

The deputy UN chief in Afghanistan was closely involved in the constitutional negotiations leading up to the interim and final constitutions in his home country. He served as chief legal adviser throughout Mr. Mandela’s presidency until 1999 and continued to work with him on his private peace initiatives up to 2002.

“I’m frequently asked with real concern about his recovery by international diplomats, politicians and ordinary Afghans – it’s a reminder that Madiba holds a special place in the hearts and minds of people all over the world,” Mr. Haysom noted.

Afghanistan is slated to hold presidential election in April next year to choose a replacement for President Hamid Karzai, following the end of his two terms in office. The political transition, which UN officials have said will be critical for the country’s stability, coincides with security and economic transitions.

In his message for the Day, Mr. Ban also said the UN is joining the Mandela Foundation in asking people around the world to devote at least 67 minutes of their time today to community service, as a tribute to “the universally revered leader,” who gave 67 years of his life to the struggle for human rights and social justice.

The world body’s events to mark the Day are expected to include an informal meeting of the General Assembly at UN Headquarters in New York, as well as a film screening and volunteer work by UN staff to rebuild homes destroyed by a hurricane. In other parts of the world, UN Information Centres are organizing film screenings, panel discussions, exhibits, and other special events, as well as volunteer activities to make a difference in their communities.