Quick Facts: Pravin Gordhan
| Full Name | Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 12 April 1949 |
| Place of Birth | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Education | Bachelor of Pharmacy, University of Durban-Westville (1973) |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Spouse | Vanitha Raju |
| Children | Anisha Gordhan |
| Ministerial Positions | Minister of Finance (2009-2014, 2015-2017) Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (2014-2015) Minister of Public Enterprises (2018-2024) |
| Anti-Apartheid Activism | Natal Indian Congress, African National Congress (ANC), South African Communist Party (SACP), United Democratic Front (UDF) |
| Awards | Commander of Belgium’s Order of the Crown UNISA Honorary Award in Excellence (2003) Doctor of Commerce (Honoris Causa) |
| Notable Roles | Commissioner of SARS (1999-2009) Chair of World Customs Organization (2000-2006) |
Biography: Pravin Gordhan
Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan, born on 12 April 1949 in Durban, is a South African politician and veteran anti-apartheid activist. Over the years, he has played a significant role in shaping post-apartheid South Africa, holding various key positions in the South African government.
Early Life and Education
Pravin Gordhan attended Sastri College in Durban and matriculated in 1967. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Durban-Westville in 1973. Following his studies, he completed his pharmacy internship at King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban, where he worked until 1981.
Political Activism
In the 1970s, Gordhan became involved with the Natal Indian Congress (NIC), an organization aligned with the African National Congress (ANC) in the fight against apartheid. His political activism led to his dismissal from King Edward VIII Hospital in 1981. He was subsequently detained and subjected to banning orders, which restricted his movement and activities until 1983. Despite these challenges, Gordhan continued his underground political work, participating in the launch of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in 1983.
As part of the ANC and the South African Communist Party (SACP), Gordhan played a critical role in mobilizing resistance against apartheid and was actively involved in Operation Vula, an underground initiative aimed at preparing for a democratic transition. His political efforts saw him represent the NIC and TIC at the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) in 1991, where he helped steer negotiations for South Africa’s peaceful transition to democracy.
Post-Apartheid Career
Gordhan’s transition from political activism to government service came in 1994, when he was elected to the first democratic parliament of South Africa. He chaired the parliamentary committee responsible for implementing the new Constitution and overseeing the transformation of local government.
In 1998, Gordhan was appointed Deputy Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), and in 1999, he became its Commissioner. Under his leadership, SARS underwent significant reforms, improving revenue collection and cracking down on corruption.
Ministerial Positions
Pravin Gordhan’s first ministerial appointment came in 2009 when President Jacob Zuma appointed him as Minister of Finance. In this role, Gordhan worked to stabilize South Africa’s economy and maintain fiscal discipline. After a brief stint as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (2014-2015), Gordhan was reappointed as Finance Minister in December 2015, following a controversial four-day tenure of David van Rooyen.
In 2018, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Gordhan as Minister of Public Enterprises, where he was tasked with overseeing state-owned enterprises, including Eskom and South African Airways. His tenure in this role lasted until June 2024, during which he attempted to reform struggling state-owned enterprises amid challenges such as corruption and mismanagement.
Legacy and Recognition
Pravin Gordhan is widely recognized for his contributions to South Africa’s post-apartheid political landscape, his commitment to public service, and his efforts to improve the efficiency of state institutions. Throughout his career, he has advocated for democracy, racial and gender equality, and a prosperous future for all South Africans.
In recognition of his achievements, Gordhan has received several honorary awards, including the title of Commander of Belgium’s Order of the Crown and an Honorary Award in Excellence from UNISA in 2003.
Gordhan continues to be a respected figure in South African politics, known for his integrity and dedication to public service.
