Mandela Day goes to the dogs. Capegate and The Dogbox Project have teamed up to bring warmth, shelter and wagging tails this Mandela Day. This will be done in 67 Minutes for 67 Kennels of Love at the Capegate Shopping Centre.

Mandela Day Goes to the Dogs

In a heartwarming tribute to Mandela Day, Capegate Shopping Centre is once again partnering with The Dogbox Project to turn paint, passion and purpose into life-saving shelters for dogs in need. This year’s event will take place on Friday, 19 July 2025, from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Centre Court. It’s all about 67 Minutes, 67 Kennels, and one powerful mission.

MORE ABOUT: 20 Ways To Show Kindness On Mandela Day

67 Minutes, 67 Kennels of Love at Capegate Shopping Centre

The initiative invites families, schools, corporates and animal lovers from across the Western Cape to roll up their sleeves and spend just over an hour painting kennels that will be donated to under-resourced animal shelters. Each kennel, sponsored by local businesses, provides a dog with vital protection against the elements.

Mandela Day goes to the dogs. Capegate and The Dogbox Project have teamed up to bring warmth, shelter and wagging tails this Mandela Day. This will be done in 67 Minutes for 67 Kennels of Love at the Capegate Shopping Centre.

Giving Mandela Day Meaning – One Kennel at a Time

“Mandela Day reminds us that even small actions can have a big impact,” says Zoë Enslin, Capegate Shopping Centre’s Marketing Manager.

Originally launched in 2012 as a Mandela Day initiative, The Dogbox Project now supports shelters on a year-round basis. With kennels often being too costly for many shelters, this initiative directly improves the lives of hundreds of rescue dogs.

“This project gives dogs warmth, comfort, and a safe place to sleep – and gives people a way to make a difference.”

Pawsome Partnerships Make an Even Bigger Impact

This year, Pet Shop Science has stepped in with generous support, donating 67 blankets, 67 dog jerseys and 67 bags of food valued at R22,000. The Mandela Day format will see 67 teams painting 67 kennels in just 67 minutes, all in the spirit of Madiba.

Want to Get Involved?

Register to participate or sponsor a kennel at www.dogboxproject.co.za/events. Capegate will provide paint, brushes, and music — all you need is your love for dogs and a willingness to get a little messy for a good cause.

Event Details:

📅 Friday, 19 July 2025
🕙 10:00 – 12:00
📍 Centre Court, Capegate Shopping Centre
🐶 Register: dogboxproject.co.za/events

Let’s paint a brighter future for dogs in need — one kennel at a time.