Oliver Tambo's daughter slams burning of University

NOMATHEMBA Tambo, daughter of Struggle icon Oliver Tambo, has strongly denounced the recent burning of the University of Fort Hare's facilities, calling the destruction a "big mistake" and urging young leaders to protect, rather than destroy, critical infrastructure.

- THABO MAKWAKWA

In an interview with IOL yesterday, Tambo expressed deep sorrow over the violent protests that gutted key parts of the 109-year-old institution, a historic symbol of South Africa's academic and social heritage.

"You know, my father grew up among the generation where discipline, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence were absolutely paramount," Tambo said, referring to her father.

"Those qualities we have in abundance in South Africa, but sometimes when people feel desperate or hopeless, these ideals seem distant. It's about how you conduct yourself, the character you want the world to see. It's about being thoughtful and mindful."

Tambo, also the former South African Ambassador to the United Kingdom, stressed the importance of understanding the consequences of one's actions.

"My father was very thoughtful, very analytical. You must be aware of the consequences of your actions," she remarked.