Faith Nonhlanhla Mazibuko is a prominent figure in South Africa’s political landscape, with a career spanning over two decades of public service. Currently serving as the MEC for Social Development in Gauteng, Mazibuko’s leadership has been pivotal in various key portfolios, from infrastructure and community safety to arts and culture. A member of the African National Congress (ANC) since her youth, she has risen through the ranks to become a driving force in both provincial and national politics.
Here are 21 facts that illustrate her journey and contributions to South Africa.
1. Full Name: Faith Nonhlanhla Mazibuko
2. Date of Birth: April 2, 1965
3. Place of Birth: Charteston, Nigel, South Africa
4. Current Position: Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development, Gauteng
5. Political Affiliation: African National Congress (ANC)
6. Education: Mazibuko’s educational journey includes matriculating from Sekano-Ntoane Senior Secondary School and obtaining a degree from the University of South Africa (UNISA), where she studied Education, English, and History.
7. Further Studies: She has enhanced her leadership skills through various courses, including an Executive Strategic Leadership Course at Wits University and certificates in Leadership Communication and Public and Parliamentary Leadership.
8. Early Political Involvement: Mazibuko’s political career began with her involvement in youth organizations such as the Soweto Students League, Young Christian Students, Soweto Youth Congress, and the ANC Youth League (ANCYL).
9. Role in ANCYL: She served as Secretary for Sports, Arts, and Culture within the ANC Youth League, reflecting her early commitment to youth development and political activism.
10. Gauteng Provincial Legislature: Mazibuko first became a Member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature in 1996, a role she held until 2004. She returned to this position in 2009 and has remained a significant figure in the legislature since.
11. National Council of Provinces: From 2004 to 2009, Mazibuko served in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), where she held roles such as Deputy Chief Whip and Chair of the Women’s Caucus.
12. MEC for Infrastructure Development: In 2009, she was appointed as the MEC for Infrastructure Development, where she focused on enhancing the province’s infrastructure.
13. MEC for Community Safety: Mazibuko’s tenure as MEC for Community Safety from 2010 to 2014 was marked by efforts to improve safety and security in Gauteng.
14. MEC for Agriculture, Environment, Rural Development, and Social Development: From 2014 to 2015, she served in this multifaceted role, addressing issues related to agriculture, environmental protection, and social welfare.
15. MEC for Sports, Heritage, Arts, and Culture: Her term as MEC for Sports, Heritage, Arts, and Culture from 2015 to 2019 highlighted her dedication to promoting cultural heritage and sporting excellence in Gauteng.
16. MEC for Community Safety (2019-2024): Mazibuko returned to the role of MEC for Community Safety in 2019, where she continued her efforts to enhance public safety until 2024.
17. Current Role as MEC for Social Development: In 2024, Mazibuko took on the role of MEC for Social Development, focusing on improving the social welfare and well-being of Gauteng residents.
18. Chair of the Women’s Caucus: Her leadership in the Women’s Caucus demonstrates her commitment to advocating for gender equality and women’s rights within the political sphere.
19. ANC Women’s League: Mazibuko has served as the Deputy Secretary and Chairperson of the ANC Women’s League in Gauteng, playing a key role in the empowerment of women within the party.
20. International Training: She has also expanded her knowledge and skills through short courses at the Thabo Mbeki African Leadership Institute (TMALI) and the National CDR Cadres School in Havana, Cuba.
21. Legacy of Public Service: Throughout her career, Faith Mazibuko has remained dedicated to serving her community and improving the lives of the people of Gauteng, making her one of the most influential figures in South African politics