Biography of Mamedupi Teffo
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Mamedupi Teffo |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | [Date not provided] |
| Place of Birth | Moletjie GaSemenya, Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Profession | Politician, Gender Activist |
| Current Position | Executive Mayor, Capricorn District Municipality |
| Years Active | 2009–Present |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Health Sciences and Social Services; Certificate in Executive Leadership Municipal Development Programme; Currently studying for an Honours Degree in Developmental Studies |
| Previous Positions | Chief Whip of Council, Polokwane Municipality (2014-2021); MMC for Sport, Art and Culture, Polokwane Municipality (2011-2014) |
| Community Involvement | Charity sports tournaments, school academic support programs |
| ANC Leadership Roles | BEC, REC, ANCYL positions; Current REC Member, Peter Mokaba Region |
Early Life and Education
Mamedupi Teffo was born and raised in Moletjie GaSemenya, a village near Polokwane in Limpopo Province, South Africa. From an early age, Teffo was deeply involved in community activities, which laid the foundation for her future in public service and political leadership.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and Social Services and has further enhanced her leadership skills with a Certificate in Executive Leadership Municipal Development Programme. Teffo is also pursuing an Honours degree in Developmental Studies, underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and development.
Political Career
Mamedupi Teffo’s political journey began as a young community activist, rising through various structures of the African National Congress (ANC). She has served in multiple leadership positions, including:
- BEC Coordinator of Bosemahla Branch, Ward 38 (2013)
- BEC Member of Bosemahla Branch, Ward 38 (2009-2017)
- BEC Deputy Chairperson of Bosemahla Branch (2017-2018)
- REC Member of the ANCYL, Peter Mokaba Region (2014-2015)
- RTT Member of the ANCYL, Peter Mokaba Region (2012-2013)
- REC Member of the ANCYL, Peter Mokaba Region (2011-2012)
- SUBREC Member of the ANCYL, Polokwane Subregion (2010-2011)
- Secretary of the ANCYL, Bosemahla Branch (2009-2011)
- REC Member of SASCO, Capricorn Region (2009-2011)
- SRC Treasurer, UNISA, Limpopo and Mpumalanga (2009-2011)
- Deputy Secretary, Women Caucus, Polokwane Municipality (2011-2014)
Her involvement in the ANC spans various levels, from grassroots organizing to significant roles in the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and regional structures. Since 2018, she has been serving as a REC Member of the Peter Mokaba Region.
Leadership Roles in Local Government
Mamedupi Teffo’s extensive experience in local government began with her role as a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) responsible for Sport, Art, and Culture in Polokwane Municipality from 2011 to 2014. Her effective leadership and commitment to service delivery led to her appointment as the Chief Whip of Council in Polokwane Municipality, a position she held from 2014 until 2021.
Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Municipality
In September 2021, Teffo was elected as the Executive Mayor of the Capricorn District Municipality, a position she was re-elected to in November 2021 following local government elections. She now leads a district that serves a population of approximately 1.2 million people across Blouberg, Lepelle-Nkumpi, Molemole, and Polokwane.
Teffo’s election to this role was a natural progression in her political career, which had been built on years of dedication, activism, and leadership within the ANC. Her vision as mayor focuses on improving the living conditions of the poor, enhancing service delivery, and fostering good governance. She emphasizes the importance of unity and collective wisdom in navigating the challenges faced by the district and local municipalities.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
As a passionate gender activist, Mamedupi Teffo has been instrumental in supporting programs aimed at empowering women and the broader community. She has maintained strong relationships with traditional leaders, NGOs, NPOs, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective delivery of services to communities.
Teffo is also committed to youth development through initiatives like the community charity sports tournament she organizes in Ward 38. This program, which she started three years ago, is designed to engage young people in sports as a way to reduce drug and alcohol abuse in the community.