Oliver Reginald Tambo (1917-1993)

A Leader Who Carried South Africa’s Hope Across the World

The India–South Africa Joint Issue Stamp, released to commemorate 20 years of Strategic Partnership between the two nations, stands as a profound tribute to two visionaries — Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya of India and Oliver Reginald Tambo of South Africa. Together, their portraits on the commemorative stamps symbolize the shared struggles, ideals, and leadership that defined the moral strength of their countries.

Among them, Oliver Reginald Tambo remains a towering figure in South Africa’s history — a man who carried the torch of freedom through decades of exile, uniting the world against apartheid.

Early Life and Education

Born on 27 October 1917 in the quiet rural village of Kantolo, Tambo was raised amidst a deeply moral and disciplined environment. His early years instilled in him the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance, traits that would guide his lifelong journey as a teacher, lawyer, and freedom fighter.

Gifted with eloquence and intellect, young Tambo excelled academically. He attended Holy Cross Mission near Flagstaff, later matriculating from St. Peter’s School in Johannesburg with outstanding results. His brilliance earned him admission to Fort Hare University, where he completed a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Science. It was at Fort Hare that Tambo’s leadership potential began to shine — he was elected to the Student’s Representative Council, a sign of his growing commitment to justice and equality.

From Teacher to Freedom Fighter

After graduating, Tambo began teaching at his alma mater, St. Peter’s College, but his calling soon turned toward political activism. He became a founding member of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in 1944, alongside Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, serving as its first National Secretary.

Tambo quickly rose through the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC), becoming President of the Transvaal ANCYL in 1948, and later National Vice-President in 1949. His partnership with Nelson Mandela led to the creation of the first Black law firm in South Africa — a bold stand against racial injustice.

By the 1950s, Tambo had become a key leader of the ANC, serving as Secretary General (1953) and Deputy President (1958). However, the Sharpeville Massacre of 1960 changed the course of his life. With the apartheid regime cracking down on resistance, the ANC entrusted Tambo with the mission to build international support for South Africa’s liberation struggle.

Voice of South Africa in Exile

In exile, Oliver Tambo became the global face of the anti-apartheid movement. He tirelessly traveled across continents, rallying nations to impose sanctions on the apartheid regime and advocating for the release of political prisoners.

He addressed the United Nations, passionately urging the world to stand for justice in South Africa. His efforts strengthened global solidarity, earning him deep respect as a diplomat of conscience. Even far from home, Tambo kept the spirit of resistance alive, organizing the ANC in exile and ensuring the movement remained united through difficult years.

Return to Freedom and Legacy

In 1967, following the death of ANC President Chief Albert Luthuli, Tambo became the Acting President of the ANC, a position confirmed at the Morogoro Conference in 1969. He led the ANC until 1990, when Nelson Mandela was released from prison and took over the leadership.

After nearly 30 years in exile, Tambo returned to a liberated South Africa, where he was appointed National Chairperson of the ANC. His lifelong dedication had helped lay the foundation for a free, democratic South Africa. He passed away on 24 April 1993, just a year before his dream of a truly liberated nation was realized.

A Tribute in Stamps

The Commemorative Postage Stamp featuring Oliver Reginald Tambo alongside Deendayal Upadhyaya is not merely a postal issue — it is a symbolic bridge between two nations that share histories of struggle, courage, and transformation.

Through this India–South Africa Joint Issue Stamp, the Department of Posts honors Tambo’s indomitable spirit — a man who carried the cause of justice on his shoulders and inspired generations to believe in equality, dignity, and freedom.