Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, born on November 17, 1952, in Soweto, Johannesburg, is the fifth and current President of South Africa, a position he has held since 2018. He is also the President of the African National Congress (ANC) since 2017.
Early Life and Education
Ramaphosa grew up in the township of Soweto during the apartheid era. He attended Tshilidzi Primary School and Sekano Ntoane High School. In 1971, he enrolled at the University of the North (Turfloop) to study law, where he became involved in student politics and joined the South African Students Organization (SASO) and the Black People’s Convention (BPC).
Anti-Apartheid Activism and Trade Union Leadership
After his studies, Ramaphosa joined the Council of Unions of South Africa (CUSA) as a legal advisor. In 1982, he founded the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and served as its first secretary-general. Under his leadership, NUM grew significantly, becoming one of the most powerful trade unions in South Africa. Ramaphosa played a pivotal role in organizing massive strikes, advocating for workers’ rights, and challenging the apartheid regime.
Political Career and Role in Ending Apartheid
In 1991, Ramaphosa was elected Secretary-General of the ANC and became the chief negotiator during the talks that led to the end of apartheid. He was instrumental in the drafting of South Africa’s new constitution and the transition to a democratic government.
Business Ventures
After losing the bid for the ANC presidency to Thabo Mbeki in 1997, Ramaphosa transitioned into the private sector. He founded Shanduka Group, an investment holding company with interests in mining, telecommunications, and real estate. He also held significant positions in various companies, including serving as the chairman of the board for MTN Group and as a non-executive director of Standard Bank.
Return to Politics
Ramaphosa returned to politics in 2012, being elected as the Deputy President of the ANC. In 2014, he was appointed Deputy President of South Africa under President Jacob Zuma. During this time, he was tasked with overseeing the National Planning Commission and efforts to address economic challenges.
Presidency
In December 2017, Ramaphosa was elected President of the ANC. Following Jacob Zuma’s resignation in February 2018, Ramaphosa was elected by the National Assembly as President of South Africa. He was re-elected in May 2019 after the general elections. His presidency has focused on anti-corruption measures, economic reforms, and improving governance.
Personal Life
Ramaphosa is married to Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, a medical doctor and businesswoman. They have four children together. He is known for his love of wildlife and owns a game farm in Limpopo province.
Recent Developments
In June 2024, the ANC secured 40% of the vote in the general elections, leading to a coalition government. Ramaphosa was re-elected as President of South Africa on June 14, 2024, after forming a coalition with opposition parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other smaller parties.
