Helena Ndume of Namibia and Jorge Sampaio of Portugal received
the first-ever Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize at the UN Headquarters in New York on Friday.

This prize which was established in June 2014 by the UN General Assembly (UNGA), aims at recognising achievements of those who dedicate their lives to the service of humanity, just like late Mandela and by promoting the UN purposes and principles.

Ndume, a female ophthalmologist, was awarded for, having treating blindness and eye-related illnesses in Namibia and throughout the developing world.

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While Sampaio, the former president of Portugal from 1996 to 2006 and also the former mayor of Lisbon from 1989 to 1995, has been awarded for his nobel contribution to his country, while leading.

This prize giving ceremony, organised by UNGA, is a tribute to late Nelson Mandela, who was known for his legacy of reconciliation,political transition and social transformation.

Nelson Mandela International Day is observed on July 18 every year.