Quick Facts
| Full Name | Samson Gwede Mantashe |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 21, 1955 (69 years) |
| Place of Birth | Lower Cala, Cape Province, South Africa |
| Current Position | Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy (function of Minister of Electricity and Energy assigned to Kgosientsho Ramokgopa) |
| Previous Positions | Minister of Mineral Resources (Feb 2018 – May 2019), Secretary-General of ANC (2007-2017), National Chairperson of ANC (since Dec 2017) |
| Political Affiliation | African National Congress (ANC), South African Communist Party (SACP) |
| Education | Bachelor of Commerce, University of South Africa (1997); Honours, University of South Africa (2002); Master’s in Industrial Sociology, University of the Witwatersrand (2008); MBA, Management College of Southern Africa (2021) |
| Spouse | Nolwandle Mantashe |
| Children | Two sons: Buyambo and Kamva; Two daughters: Chuma and Mbasa |
Biography of Gwede Mantashe
Samson Gwede Mantashe, born on June 21, 1955, in Lower Cala, Cape Province (now part of the Eastern Cape), South Africa, is a prominent South African politician and former trade unionist. Currently, he serves as the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, with the specific function of Minister of Electricity and Energy having been delegated to Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Mantashe’s career spans decades of significant contributions to both trade unionism and national politics.
Early Life and Education
Mantashe was born in the rural village of Lower Cala, where he initially engaged in activism through the Student Christian Movement (SCM). His early experiences shaped his dedication to social justice and political activism. After the end of apartheid, Mantashe pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Commerce in 1997 and an Honours degree in 2002 from the University of South Africa. He furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Industrial Sociology from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2008, followed by an MBA from the Management College of Southern Africa in 2021.
Early Career
Mantashe began his professional journey in the mining industry, starting at the Western Deep Levels mine as a Recreation Officer in 1975. He later moved to Prieska Copper Mines as a Welfare Officer until 1982. Mantashe’s significant contributions began when he joined Matla Colliery, where he co-founded and chaired the Witbank branch of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). His rise through the NUM ranks included roles as Regional Secretary and National Organiser, leading to his appointment as the General Secretary in 1998.
Union and Political Rise
Mantashe’s tenure as General Secretary of NUM was marked by substantial influence in labor movements and the broader political landscape. He served until May 2006, when he transitioned to a role at the Development Bank of Southern Africa as Executive Manager: Strategic Initiatives. His involvement in the South African Communist Party (SACP) during this period further established his political influence.
At the ANC’s 52nd National Conference in Polokwane in December 2007, Mantashe was elected Secretary-General of the ANC, a position he held for a decade, gaining re-election in December 2012. During his tenure, he played a controversial role in defending President Jacob Zuma against internal dissent and allegations of state capture. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the ANC’s strategies and policies.
Chairmanship and Ministerial Roles
After his two terms as Secretary-General, Mantashe was elected as ANC National Chairperson at the party’s 54th National Conference in December 2017. Following his election, he was appointed to the Cabinet by President Cyril Ramaphosa, initially serving as Minister of Mineral Resources from February 2018. His portfolio was expanded to include Energy in May 2019, though the specific function of Minister of Electricity and Energy was later assigned to Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.
Mantashe’s ministerial work has been significantly focused on addressing South Africa’s energy crisis and navigating the challenges of a just energy transition. His pro-coal and natural gas stance has attracted both support and criticism, particularly concerning investment in renewable energy sources.
Personal Life
Mantashe is married to Nolwandle Mantashe, and they have four adult children: two sons, Buyambo and Kamva, and two daughters, Chuma and Mbasa. His family life is a private aspect of his otherwise public career. Mantashe continues to play a crucial role in South African politics and remains a member of the SACP Central Committee.
Gwede Mantashe’s career reflects a deep commitment to both the labor movement and national governance, with a lasting impact on South Africa’s political and economic landscape.
