Media Statement

The African National Congress (ANC) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the people of Zambia on the significant occasion of their 60th anniversary of independence.

This day stands as a solid testimony to the unyielding spirit of liberation that characterized Zambia’s resistance against colonial domination and exploitation. The 24th of October 1964 marks not only a victory for Zambia, but also a cornerstone in the broader African struggle for freedom, unity, and self- determination.

Our shared history with Zambia is one rooted in profound solidarity, fraternal relations, and mutual support during the most difficult periods of Africa’s liberation struggles. The relationship between the ANC and Zambia, and indeed between comrades in struggle, Oliver Reginald Tambo and Kenneth Kaunda, remains a shining example of Pan-African unity and collaboration. President Kaunda’s government provided not just a safe haven but also unwavering political, military, and material support to the ANC and other liberation movements across the continent, ensuring that the fires of resistance to apartheid and colonialism continued to burn brightly.

Under the courageous leadership of President Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia became a critical base for the ANC in exile. Oliver Tambo, then President-General of the ANC, shared a deep and revolutionary friendship with President Kaunda, anchored in their shared commitment to the liberation of Southern Africa and the broader decolonisation of the continent. Tambo frequently emphasized that without the solidarity of frontline states like Zambia, the apartheid regime would have continued to oppress the people of South Africa with impunity. The fraternal relationship between these two giants of African liberation is a reminder of the bonds that bind African nations, transcending borders and uniting us in our collective struggles against imperialism and exploitation.

As we celebrate Zambia’s 60 years of independence, we must recommit ourselves to the ideals that Cde Kaunda and Tambo fought for. The spirit of Ubuntu, the unity of purpose and the fight for a just, non-racial, and non-sexist society must continue to guide our efforts in transforming the continent. The ANC remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening fraternal relations with the people of Zambia as we collectively pursue the African Renaissance and confront the socio-economic challenges facing our continent.

Reflecting on the sacrifices made by Zambia for the liberation of Southern Africa, we also acknowledge the leadership role that South Africa must now play on the global stage. With our G20 presidency in 2025,2 we draw inspiration from Zambia’s legacy of leadership in African solidarity and will work to ensure that the voices and aspirations of the Global South are heard. Just as Zambia, under the leadership of Comrade Kaunda, provided strategic support for African liberation, South Africa must now champion the cause of developing nations in building a more equitable and just global order.

Let us never forget the profound sacrifices made by Zambia in its unwavering commitment to the liberation of Southern Africa. As we celebrate this milestone, we also reaffirm our solidarity with the Zambian people in their pursuit of peace, development, and social justice.

Long live the revolutionary friendship of Cde Kenneth Kaunda and Oliver Tambo! Long live the bonds of African solidarity!

Viva Zambia’s 60th anniversary of independence, Viva! #MayibuyeiAfrika