Quick Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Enoch Godongwana |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1957 (age 67 years) |
| Place of Birth | Cala, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Current Role | Minister of Finance (since July 3, 2024) |
| Previous Roles | Minister of Finance (August 5, 2021 – June 19, 2024), Chairperson of the Board of the Development Bank of Southern Africa, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises, Member of Parliament, Member of Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, Member of Executive Council (Eastern Cape) for Finance, Economic Affairs, Environment, and Tourism |
| Education | MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London |
| Family | Married to Thandiwe Godongwana, with children |
Early Life and Education
Enoch Godongwana was born on June 9, 1957, in Cala, a town in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. He pursued higher education and holds a Master of Science degree in Financial Economics from the University of London.
Trade Union and Political Career
Godongwana has a robust background in both trade unionism and politics. He was actively involved in the trade union movement, notably serving in leadership positions within the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), one of South Africa’s largest industrial unions. He served as NUMSA’s General Secretary from 1993 to 1997 and was also involved in the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Executive and Central Committees from 1992 to 1997, chairing COSATU’s Economic Development Task Force.
Political Career
In political spheres, Godongwana’s career has been extensive and varied. He has served as a Member of Parliament, a Member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, and held several ministerial positions. Notably, he has been Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises, and a Member of the Executive Council in the Eastern Cape responsible for Finance, Economic Affairs, Environment, and Tourism.
Godongwana’s expertise in economic policy and financial matters led to his appointment as Chairperson of the Board of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. He has also been involved in international financial governance, serving on the Boards of the New Development Bank and Mondi plc, among others. His contributions include leading the Financial Sector Charter Council and serving on the Policy Board for Financial Services and Regulation.
Current Role and Contributions
Enoch Godongwana currently serves as the Minister of Finance, a position he has held since July 3, 2024, having previously served in the same role from August 5, 2021, until June 19, 2024. In addition to his ministerial duties, he chairs the ANC’s Economic Transformation sub-committee, playing a crucial role in shaping economic policies within the party.
Personal Life
Outside of politics, Godongwana is a family man, married to Thandiwe Godongwana, and they have children together.
Conclusion
Enoch Godongwana’s career is marked by a deep commitment to economic development, financial governance, and social justice. His journey from trade union activism to political leadership underscores his dedication to improving the lives of South Africans through policy and advocacy. As Minister of Finance, he continues to navigate complex economic challenges, drawing on his extensive experience and expertise in both national and international spheres.
