Thabo Mbeki is 84 years old as of October 2026. He was born on 18 June 1942.
Second President of South Africa after the end of apartheid
Did you know?He spent almost three decades in exile from his home country while working for the African National Congress across Europe and Africa.
Quick facts
Date of birth18 June 1942
Age84
NationalitySouth African
BirthplaceMbewuleni, South Africa
Occupationpolitician, economist, minister
Editor's Take:
Thabo Mbeki was the thinker behind much of the ANC's diplomacy in exile. As President he presided over steady economic growth. He promoted the idea of an African renaissance. His record is badly scarred by his doubts about the link between HIV and AIDS. That position delayed treatment for many South Africans. Studies later estimated hundreds of thousands of avoidable deaths. Rivals within his own party forced him out in 2008. His time in office remains deeply contested.
Key Milestones
1962: Leaves South Africa for exile
1994: Becomes Deputy President
1999: Becomes President
2008: Resigns as President
Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki (born 18 June 1942) is a South African politician and economist who served as the second president of South Africa from 1999 until his resignation in 2008. He previously served as deputy president under Nelson Mandela from 1994 to 1999.
