Dignitaries thank the Tambo’s for sharing Oliver Tambo with the nation

Speaking during the annual Oliver and Adelaide Tambo wreath-laying ceremony, their son, Dali Tambo, shared with guests that not many people knew that his father was a tremendous horseman and golfer.

The event was held at Tamboville Cemetery, Wattville, on October 27 where scores of ANC and community members including a number of dignitaries gathered to commemorate the life and legacy of Oliver and his wife, Adelaide Tambo.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Oliver Tambo’s death.

Dali said his father lived a tremendous life and he brought joy and happiness to a lot of people.

“He brought freedom with his colleagues to the nation that was desperate for liberation. He was a rounded person, religious and gentle for a revolutionary and a teacher. I’ve received unconditional love from him and I always wish I had spent more time with him. He was not just my father but a father of a nation.

“We learnt that we can’t be selfish with him but we had to allow him to do what he had to do.”

Dali’s wife Rachel, who spoke on behalf of the family, said she was fortunate enough to have met Mama Adelaide.

OR Tambo's wreath laying commemoration underway in Wattville. #Benoni #benoninews pic.twitter.com/BGmEvOxDko

— Ntombi Sibeko (@CharityNtombza) October 27, 2023

“We had a special relationship and shared fond memories.”

She said though she has been a member of the Tambo family for over 25 years and has never met Oliver Tambo, his life was brought to life for her through the family, ANC and many people who worked for him.

“Oliver Tambo was a man of ethics, honesty, integrity, teacher, leader and a national treasure,” said Rachel.

Rendering the keynote address, the deputy minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Nocawe Mafu said Tambo’slegacy continues to be celebrated for its crucial role in the struggle for freedom and justice for SA.

“As we celebrate OR Tambo’s birthday and the celebration of our democracy’s milestone, let us remember the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom and equality in South Africa. Our road to freedom was not free, our road to democracy required untold sacrifices in pursuit of our freedom.

“Tambo’s family paid the highest price and sacrifice growing up without the privilege of having him as a father and brother. Tambo’s children had to understand early in their lives that their father was the father of the nation. On behalf of South Africans we would like to thank the family for sharing him with us,” said Mafu.

Also Read: Celebrating the life of Oliver Tambo

Also Read: Dignitaries pay tribute to Tambos

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