This is Nelson Mandela's first television interview from 1961 when he was a young activist in the African National Congress.

He joined the ANC in 1943 where he campaigned against apartheid. 

The anti-apartheid icon served as South Africa's first black president from 1994 to 1999. after spending 27 years in jail - including the notorious Robben Island prison.

Madiba - as he was affectionately known by many South Africans - was released in 1990 and went on to guide his country to democracy, bringing an end to white minority rule and securing black people the right to vote.

Mandela with ITN reporter Brian Widlake

He served a single term as president before stepping down in 1999.

After leaving office, he became a high-profile ambassador for South Africa, campaigning against HIV and AIDS, promoting peace around the world and helping to secure the country's right to host the 2010 football World Cup.

Reporter Brian Widlake asked him "Are there many educated Africans in South Africa?"

Mr. Mandela, who died yesterday at 95, will get a State funeral and national flags will be lowered to half-mast.

He is survived by his third wife, Graca Machel, and daughters Makaziwe, Zindzi and Zenani.

Watch his first-ever TV interview from ITN in 1961 below.