The resolution was adopted on Wednesday by the 192-member General Assembly to commemorate the Nobel Peace Prize laureate’s long-standing commitment to promoting conflict resolution, race relations, human rights, reconciliation and gender equality.

According to a statement by the world body, the day which deliberately coincides with Mandela’s birthday will be observed annually, commencing the beginning of next year, when the former anti-apartheid leader will turn 92 years old.

“By adopting the resolution, the UN expressed its appreciation for a great man who had suffered for the sake of people everywhere,” stated Assembly President Ali Treki, recognizing Mandela’s 27-year imprisonment, most of which was spent in the notorious Robben Island detention centre, off the coast of Cape Town.

Nelson Mandela was elected South Africa’s first black president soon after his release from prison in 1990. He stepped down in 1999, defying the traditional line of many African leaders.

Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary General, has described Mandela as “a living embodiment of the highest values of the United Nations.”