Tambo exhibition celebrates man of many parts

AS PART of the celebration of Oliver Tambo in this, the centenary year of his birth, an important exhibition comes to Freedom Park in Pretoria.

Titled “Determined Freedom Fighter” it charts the 30 years Tambo spent in the struggle against apartheid.

“With so many of his comrades imprisoned, he served as the key organiser, strategist, representative and father figure of the liberation movement. He was a man of enormous discipline and determination, he was renowned for his compassion and his gentle nature,” said Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma of the exhibition which comes to Pretoria from the Apartheid Museum in Joburg.

It tells the story not only of Tambo’s life but events in South Africa at the time, charting his early life in Transkei and training as a teacher, followed by three periods from the time of Sharpeville when he was sent by the ANC to establish a mission in exile: 1960-75, 1976-85 and 1985-93, the year of his death.

While the exhibition is faithful to the historical record, it is also concerned that Tambo be remembered for his humanity, compassion and integrity.

The exhibition is suitable for all but is geared at sharing this important part of history with the youth.

Director of the Apartheid Museum, Christopher Till said Tambo’s story had not been told before in this way, and he hoped the exhibition would help restore this great man to his rightful place in the hearts and minds of all South Africans

Freedom Park is open daily from 8am to 4pm. Admission is R35 for children and R55 for adults.

The exhibition is in the Hapo Museum.