Who Is Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
“Khumbudzo Phophi” Silence “Ntshavheni”, Born On 30 January 1977, Is one of the most Powerful women in South African politics. She is the Minister in the Presidency under “President Cyril Ramaphosa”. Known for her strong Skills in Business, Technology, And Government, She quickly moved up in the ANC, Starting from youth activism to becoming A top leader.
This article looks at her life, Career, Challenges, And her impact on South African policies. Whether you’re Interested In ANC Politics, Digital government Changes, Or women leaders In Africa, This gives you everything you need to know about Her.
Early Life And Education
From Limpopo To Leadership
“Ntshavheni” was born In Sibasa, Limpopo, Into a family that ran small Businesses. Her mother worked in the taxi industry, and her father had a shop. This taught her about entrepreneurship early on and inspired her later work in small business support.
Important education steps in her life:
- She went to Mbilwi Secondary School, where she joined student politics through COSAS.
- She studied at Rand Afrikaans University (now UJ), getting a BA in Political Science and honours degrees in Development Studies and Labour Relations.
- In 2008, she got an MBA from Bradford University in the UK, helping her become a strong public and business leader.
Career Before Politics
Business And Government Administration
Before entering high-level politics, Ntshavheni worked in both government and business.
In government and public service:
- She started as a Junior Lecturer at UNISA.
- She became a spokesperson for Limpopo Premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi.
- From 2008 to 2010, she was the Municipal Manager of Ba-Phalaborwa.
- Later, she worked as COO of the State IT Agency (SITA), handling major tech projects. She left after reports of irregular tenders, but denied any personal wrongdoing.
In business:
- She Started Her Own Company Called “Nkho Trading”, Which worked In Transport And Property.
- She also Served on the board of Denel (2015–2018), Which Later came Under Investigation During The “Zondo Commission”.
Why This matters: Her Experience In both Business And government made her important To “Ramaphosa’s” Economic Reform Plans.
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Political Rise
From ANC Youth League to Cabinet Minister
“Ntshavheni” started Her political journey In the ANC Youth League And In Limpopo’s Provincial Politics.
- In 2013, she was picked to join the ANCYL National Task Team led by Mzwandile Masina.
- From 2015 to 2018, she was the ANC Limpopo spokesperson.
She played a big role in “Ramaphosa’s” CR17 campaign In Limpopo In 2017. She was later linked to Receiving R5 million In campaign funds Through Phore Farms. She denied Misusing The Money And said It was used properly for the Campaign.
Ministerial Role
Key Achievements And Challenges
Minister Of Small Business Development (2019–2021)
She helped reduce Problems for Small businesses And Supported local Township Economies.
Acting Minister In The Presidency (2021)
She took this Role after “Jackson Mthembu’s” Death And helped with government Communications during The July 2021 Riots.
Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies (2021–2023)
She led the digital TV migration and broadband expansion. But her time at Denel was also reviewed by the Zondo Commission.
Minister in the Presidency (2023–Present)
She now oversees the State Security Agency (SSA) and government communications. She is one of the most powerful women in President Ramaphosa’s cabinet.
Controversies And Public Scrutiny
- CR17 Campaign Funds: She was accused of getting R5 million, but she said it was for campaign use and not personal gain.
- Zondo Commission: She was questioned about changes to the Denel board, but denied wrongdoing.
- SITA Tender Issues: There were investigations during her time at SITA, but she was never formally charged.
Personal Life And Faith
Ntshavheni is a devout Christian, active in the Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Prayer Women’s League. She is a mother and works hard to balance family life with her demanding job in government.
Conclusion
What’s Next for Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
From a young activist in Limpopo to a top government minister, Ntshavheni’s story is one of strength and determination. As the 2024 elections approach, her role in security, digital policy, and ANC strategy will be very important.