In South Africa, the political arena is not only a source of power and influence but also a pathway to significant wealth. The country’s wealthiest politicians have built their fortunes through diverse avenues, including business ventures, strategic investments, and enduring careers in public service. As of 2024, here is a look at the top 10 richest South African politicians:
1. Cyril Ramaphosa
Cyril Ramaphosa, born on November 17, 1952, in Soweto, South Africa, is a prominent political leader and businessman. He played a crucial role in the anti-apartheid struggle and was a key figure in the negotiations that led to the end of apartheid. Ramaphosa is a highly respected figure in South African politics, having served as the Deputy President from 2014 to 2018 before becoming the President of South Africa in 2018.
Achievements
Ramaphosa has been instrumental in shaping South Africa’s post-apartheid landscape. He was the chief negotiator for the African National Congress (ANC) during the transition to democracy and later became the Deputy President of the ANC. As President, he has focused on fighting corruption, economic reform, and strengthening South Africa’s global standing. Before his presidency, Ramaphosa was a successful businessman.
Business Ownership
Cyril Ramaphosa has an extensive business portfolio, including significant investments in mining, real estate, and fast food. His business interests have contributed to his considerable wealth.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Cyril Ramaphosa’s net worth is estimated to be around $450 million, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in South African politics. His wealth is a combination of his successful business ventures and his political career.
2.Tokyo Sexwale
Tokyo Sexwale, born Mosima Gabriel Sexwale on March 5, 1953, in Soweto, South Africa, is a distinguished politician, businessman, and anti-apartheid activist. He was an influential figure in the African National Congress (ANC) and became one of the youngest leaders of the ANC’s military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. Sexwale was imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela for his role in the anti-apartheid struggle.
Achievements
After the end of apartheid, Sexwale served as the first Premier of Gauteng Province from 1994 to 1998. He later served as South Africa’s Minister of Human Settlements from 2009 to 2013, where he worked on addressing housing issues in the country. His contributions to the fight against apartheid and his leadership during the transition to democracy have made him a respected figure in South Africa’s history.
Business Ownership
Tokyo Sexwale founded Mvelaphanda Holdings, a diversified investment company with interests in mining, energy, financial services, and real estate. His company became a significant player in South Africa’s economy, particularly through its involvement in diamond mining, where it held substantial stakes in De Beers and other mining ventures.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Tokyo Sexwale’s net worth is around $200 million. His wealth comes from his successful business ventures, particularly in the mining and energy sectors, along with his ongoing influence in both South African politics and the global business arena.
3.Herman Mashaba
Herman Mashaba was born on August 26, 1959, in Hammanskraal, South Africa. He is a successful entrepreneur, politician, and former Mayor of Johannesburg. Mashaba’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in South African business and politics is an inspiring story of resilience and determination.
Achievements
Mashaba is best known for founding the hair care brand, Black Like Me, in 1985. The company quickly became a household name in South Africa, catering to the needs of the Black community during a time when few products were available for this market. His success as an entrepreneur has made him one of the most respected business figures in the country. In 2016, Mashaba entered politics and became the Mayor of Johannesburg, serving until 2019. He was a member of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and later founded his own political party, ActionSA, which aims to address corruption and improve governance in South Africa.
Business Ownership
Herman Mashaba’s primary business venture is Black Like Me, but he has also been involved in various other businesses, including property development and investment firms. His business acumen has made him a notable figure in South Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Herman Mashaba’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. His wealth is largely derived from his successful business ventures, particularly in the hair care industry, as well as his investments in real estate and other sectors.
4. F.W de Klerk
Frederik Willem de Klerk, born on March 18, 1936, in Johannesburg, South Africa, was a prominent politician and the last State President of apartheid-era South Africa, serving from 1989 to 1994. Coming from a prominent Afrikaner political family, de Klerk was deeply involved in the National Party, which enforced the apartheid system.
Achievements
F.W. de Klerk is best known for his pivotal role in ending apartheid and initiating the transition to a democratic South Africa. In 1990, he made the historic decision to release Nelson Mandela from prison and lift the ban on anti-apartheid political parties, including the African National Congress (ANC).
In 1993, de Klerk was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Nelson Mandela for their efforts to peacefully end apartheid and establish multiracial elections in 1994, which led to Mandela becoming South Africa’s first Black president.
Business Ownership
F.W. de Klerk was primarily a public servant and did not have significant business ventures compared to other politicians. His focus remained on political and social issues rather than private business pursuits.
Net Worth
As of the time of his passing in November 2021, F.W. de Klerk’s net worth was estimated to be around $46 million.
5. Saki Macozoma
Saki Macozoma, born in 1957 in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is a prominent businessman and former political activist. He was actively involved in the anti-apartheid movement and spent time in prison on Robben Island, where he was incarcerated alongside Nelson Mandela. After South Africa transitioned to democracy, Macozoma shifted his focus to the business sector, where he became one of the most influential figures.
Achievements
Before transitioning to business, Macozoma was a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and played a significant role in the anti-apartheid struggle.
Macozoma has held several high-profile positions in both public and private sectors. He served as the Managing Director of Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport and logistics company. He was also the Chairman of Liberty Holdings and the President of Business Leadership South Africa.
Business Ownership
Saki Macozoma is a key figure in Safika Holdings, where he has played a significant role in driving the company’s growth and diversification into sectors such as mining, financial services, and telecommunications. His leadership in the business world has made him a key player in South Africa’s corporate landscape.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Saki Macozoma’s net worth is around $150 million. His wealth comes from his extensive involvement in various business ventures, investments, and his leadership roles in major South African corporations.
6. Jacob Zuma
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, born on April 12, 1942, in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a prominent South African politician who served as the President of South Africa from 2009 to 2018. He was a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC) and played a significant role in the anti-apartheid struggle. Zuma’s political career has been marked by both significant achievements and controversies.
Achievements
Zuma rose through the ranks of the ANC, serving in various capacities, including as Deputy President of South Africa from 1999 to 2005. He became President of the ANC in 2007 and subsequently the President of South Africa in 2009, holding office until 2018. During the apartheid era, Zuma was involved in underground activities and spent ten years imprisoned on Robben Island alongside other ANC leaders. He also played a role in the ANC’s armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe.
Business Ownership
Jacob Zuma’s business interests have been the subject of much scrutiny. While he does not directly own significant business enterprises, his presidency was marred by numerous allegations of corruption and state capture, particularly involving the Gupta family, which allegedly benefited from government contracts and other favors during his administration.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Jacob Zuma’s net worth is around $20 million. His wealth is believed to have been accumulated through various means during his political career, although the exact details remain unclear due to the controversies surrounding his financial dealings.
7. Thabo Mbeki
Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki, born on June 18, 1942, in Idutywa, Eastern Cape, South Africa, is a prominent South African politician who served as the President of South Africa from 1999 to 2008. Mbeki was deeply involved in the African National Congress (ANC) from a young age, influenced by his father, Govan Mbeki, a prominent anti-apartheid activist. He spent many years in exile during the apartheid era, where he played a key role in the ANC’s diplomatic and international relations efforts.
Achievements
Mbeki succeeded Nelson Mandela as the President of South Africa in 1999, serving two terms until his resignation in 2008. His presidency was marked by economic growth, the promotion of African Renaissance, and efforts to position South Africa as a key player on the international stage. Mbeki’s government implemented the Growth, Employment, and Redistribution (GEAR) policy, which focused on stabilizing the economy, reducing inflation, and attracting foreign investment. Under his leadership, South Africa experienced steady economic growth. Mbeki was a strong advocate for the African Renaissance, a movement to foster economic, cultural, and political renewal in Africa.
Business Ownership
Thabo Mbeki has not been directly involved in business ventures. His focus has been primarily on politics, governance, and diplomatic efforts both during and after his presidency. Post-presidency, Mbeki has remained active through the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, which works on various initiatives related to African development and leadership.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Thabo Mbeki’s net worth is estimated to be around $17 million. His wealth is derived from his government pension, speaking engagements, and his involvement in various foundations and international organizations.
8.Bulelani Ngcukag
Bulelani T. Ngcuka was born on May 2, 1954, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. He is a prominent South African lawyer, anti-apartheid activist, and businessman. Ngcuka played a significant role in South Africa’s transition to democracy and is best known for being the country’s first National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), a position he held from 1998 to 2004. He is married to Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, a former Deputy President of South Africa and United Nations Under-Secretary-General.
Achievements
Ngcuka made history by becoming South Africa’s first NDPP. During his tenure, he established the Scorpions, an elite crime-fighting unit that focused on investigating and prosecuting high-profile cases, including corruption and organized crime. Ngcuka was deeply involved in the anti-apartheid struggle, spending time in exile and working closely with the ANC to bring about the end of apartheid. After stepping down from the NDPP, Ngcuka transitioned into the private sector, where he has been involved in various business ventures and legal advisory roles. He has served on the boards of several prominent South African companies.
Business Ownership
Bulelani Ngcuka has been involved in several business ventures since leaving public service. He is a founding partner of the investment firm Vuwa Investments, which focuses on mining, telecommunications, and other sectors. He has also held directorships and advisory roles in several large corporations, contributing to his business acumen and influence in South African economic circles.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Bulelani Ngcuka’s net worth is around $15 million. His wealth has been accumulated through his legal career, his role in various businesses, and his investments in key sectors of the South African economy.
9. Mamphela Ramphele
Mamphela Aletta Ramphele was born on December 28, 1947, in the Limpopo province of South Africa. She is a renowned South African academic, medical doctor, businesswoman, and activist. Ramphele was a key figure in the anti-apartheid movement and is recognized for her work in the Black Consciousness Movement alongside Steve Biko, with whom she had a close personal relationship and a son. Ramphele has had a distinguished career that spans various fields, including health, education, business, and politics.
Achievements
Ramphele was deeply involved in the Black Consciousness Movement, working alongside Steve Biko to promote black self-reliance and political consciousness. She faced imprisonment and harassment from the apartheid regime due to her activism. Ramphele became one of the first black South Africans to hold a senior position at a university when she was appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town in 1996. She was the first black woman to hold this position at a South African university. In 2000, Ramphele was appointed as one of the Managing Directors of the World Bank, where she focused on human development in areas such as health, education, and social protection,
Business Ownership
Mamphela Ramphele has been involved in various business ventures, particularly after her stint with the World Bank. She has served on the boards of major corporations, including Anglo-American and MediClinic International. Additionally, she has been involved in several philanthropic and developmental initiatives, focusing on education, health, and community development.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Mamphela Ramphele’s net worth is around $12 million. Her wealth comes from her extensive career in academic career, international development, business, and s. Ramphele is one of South Africa’s most intellectuals and activists, with a legacy that includes significant contributions to education, public health, and social justice.
10. Pravin Gordhan
Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan was born on April 12, 1949, in Durban, South Africa. He is a seasoned South African politician and anti-apartheid activist with a long-standing career in public service. Gordhan is of Indian descent and was involved in the anti-apartheid struggle as a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP). He is best known for his roles in government, particularly as Minister of Finance, a position he has held multiple times during periods of economic uncertainty in South Africa.
Achievements
Gordhan was actively involved in the struggle against apartheid, particularly through his work with the United Democratic Front (UDF) and his underground activities with the ANC. He played a crucial role in the negotiations leading to South Africa’s transition to democracy. Gordhan first served as Minister of Finance from 2009 to 2014, where he was widely respected for his efforts to stabilize South Africa’s economy.
He was reappointed in 2015 but was controversially removed in 2017 during a cabinet reshuffle by then-President Jacob Zuma, which led to significant economic repercussions. He returned to the role briefly in 2018 under President Cyril Ramaphosa. Gordhan currently serves as the Minister of Public Enterprises, where he oversees state-owned enterprises such as Eskom and South African Airways. His tenure has been marked by efforts to combat corruption and turn around struggling public companies.
Business Ownership
Pravin Gordhan is primarily known for his public service rather than business ventures. His focus has been on governance and public administration, and there is no substantial record of private business ownership or entrepreneurial activities.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Pravin Gordhan’s net worth is around $5 million. His wealth is largely derived from his long career in government service, where he has been a key figure in South Africa’s economic and public sector governance. Gordhan is highly regarded for his integrity and dedication to public service, particularly in his efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance in South Africa.
