The South African President noted for his efforts toward reconciliation and dismantling apartheid is Nelson Mandela. After spending 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activism, Mandela became South Africa's first black president in 1994. His leadership emphasized reconciliation between the racially divided groups within the nation and focused on creating a democratic and inclusive society. Mandela's achievements earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, and he remains a global symbol of peace, justice, and human rights.