Nelson Mandela is one of history's most extraordinary individuals. He has many identities and roles: a son of the Eastern Cape; a South African citizen; elder in a large family; the longest-serving political prisoner on Robben Island and in other apartheid prisons; former leader of the ANC; former President of South Africa; international statesperson; and the most powerful symbol of dedication to human liberation in the world. Establishing an institution of memory to honour him, to document his life, and promote his legacy is imperative.
From the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory Project Statement