Dali Tambo is a prominent South African media executive, producer, and television host recognized for his anti-apartheid activism and cultural preservation efforts. As the son of ANC leaders Oliver and Adelaide Tambo, he grew up in exile and later built a notable career in broadcasting upon returning home.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Dali Tambo |
| Date of birth | March 1, 1961 |
| Place of birth | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng (born Johannesburg) |
| Partner | Rachel Tambo |
| Children | 4 (eldest named O.R. Tambo) |
| Occupations | Television host, producer, media executive, heritage project leader |
| Net worth | $1 – $2 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Tambo fled South Africa to England as an infant in 1960 with his mother Adelaide alongside sisters Nomathemba and Tselane, due to his parents’ opposition to apartheid, he returned in 1990, gaining fame as host of the SABC program People of the South..
He studied at Lancing College in West Sussex, UK, before obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Affairs from the American University of Paris in 1981.
Career
Tambo co-founded Artists Against Apartheid in 1983 with Jerry Dammers, staging major European concerts against apartheid, such as the 46664 Nelson Mandela events.
Back in South Africa, he established Southern Streams Productions, hosted Night Moves on M-Net, and led People of the South on SABC from 1994-2002 and 2012-2013.
He chairs Koketso Holdings and Koketso Growth, overseeing initiatives like the National Heritage Monument featuring over 500 statues of South African icons, including the Mandela statue at the Union Buildings.
Personal Life
Tambo married Rachel Tambo in 1998; the couple has four children, with their eldest son honoring Oliver Reginald (O.R.) Tambo. The family lives in South Africa, and he supports legacy projects through the Oliver & Adelaide Tambo Foundation.
Health
Tambo was hospitalized in late January 2026 after a mild heart attack tied to stress-related hypertension; he has responded positively to care and remains under monitoring. No other significant health concerns appear in records.
Controversies
His 2013 People of the South interview with Robert Mugabe faced backlash for perceived leniency, labeled overly flattering amid Zimbabwe’s elections.
In 2025, a tax dispute emerged with SARS over more than R1.7 million in unpaid personal income tax, interest, and penalties, prompting a court action.
Net Worth
Dali Tambo holds an estimated net worth of $1–2 million USD, derived from his media production ventures, television hosting career, and leadership in heritage projects like Koketso Holdings.
