Pemmy Castelina Pamela Majodina is a prominent South African politician who has dedicated her career to public service and governance. From humble beginnings to holding influential positions in the South African government, here are 15 key facts about Majodina’s life and political journey.
- Early Life in Sterkspruit
Born on December 24, 1968, in the rural town of Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape, Pemmy Majodina faced a tough childhood as she was raised an orphan. Her early life experiences shaped her passion for social change and justice. - Educational Background
Majodina is a qualified teacher, having earned a Bachelor of Education from the National University of Lesotho in 1996. She furthered her studies with an Honours degree in 1998, which helped shape her career in both education and politics. - Anti-Apartheid Activist
Active in the fight against apartheid, Majodina served in the underground structures of Umkhonto weSizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). She also took on leadership roles in the ANC Women’s League and the South African Students Congress. - First Foray into Politics: National Council of Provinces (1999-2004)
Majodina’s political career began in 1999 when she was appointed to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) to represent the ANC. She became involved in various legislative duties, including being part of the ANC’s newly formed political committee. - A Rising Star in Provincial Politics
In 2004, she was elected to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, where she quickly gained prominence. She served as the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Roads and Public Works, before ascending to the Executive Council. - Leadership in the Eastern Cape
From 2008 to 2019, Majodina held multiple key positions in the Eastern Cape provincial government, including MEC for Health, MEC for Roads and Public Works, MEC for Social Development, and MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture. - Public Protector Investigation (2015)
In 2015, Majodina was investigated by South Africa’s Public Protector for alleged misuse of public funds during a trip to New York in 2012. While she was found to have improperly spent funds, she paid back the amount and the issue did not result in significant repercussions for her career. - Chief Whip of the Majority Party (2019-2024)
In 2019, Majodina was elected Chief Whip of the ANC in the National Assembly, a crucial position where she was responsible for ensuring party discipline and supporting the ANC’s parliamentary agenda. She was the second woman ever to hold this role. - Member of the ANC National Executive Committee
In December 2017, Majodina was elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee, marking her as a key figure within the party. Her leadership role further solidified her influence in both provincial and national politics. - Cleared of Corruption Allegations
Majodina was twice accused of corruption—once for a contract involving her son and another time in connection with a bribery scandal. However, both the Public Protector and internal ANC investigations cleared her of any wrongdoing. - Focused on Youth and Women’s Issues
Throughout her career, Majodina has been a strong advocate for youth and women’s rights. She often emphasized the importance of youth representation in the ANC, as well as addressing social issues such as gender inequality. - Minister of Water and Sanitation (2024-Present)
After the May 2024 elections, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Majodina as the Minister of Water and Sanitation. She is tasked with overseeing the country’s water resources and infrastructure, an area critical for South Africa’s future sustainability. - Awards and Recognition
In 2015, Majodina received the prestigious Global Humanitarian Award from Jesse Jackson, acknowledging her contributions to social justice and humanitarian causes. Her commitment to public service continues to earn her recognition. - Flamboyant Fashion Sense
Known for her unique fashion style, Majodina is often admired for her bold and stylish clothing choices, which reflect her dynamic personality. Her fashion sense has become an integral part of her public image. - Personal Life and Family
Majodina is a mother to nine children, seven of whom she adopted. Despite being estranged from her husband, she continues to maintain a strong family bond and is a lay preacher at her local Methodist Church in Bensonvale.