Pinky Sharon Kekana is a well-known South African politician, born in Limpopo, who has served in various important political roles over the years. From her early days as a teacher to her rise within the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC), Kekana has shown strong leadership and commitment to public service. As of July 2024, she holds the position of Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration. Let’s dive into 15 key facts about her journey and achievements:
1. Early Life and Education
Born on 14 July 1966 in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, Pinky Kekana’s formative years were spent in a community that valued education and service. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education and worked as a secondary school teacher in her hometown, showing an early passion for learning and teaching.
2. First Step into Politics
Kekana’s political career began in 1999 when she was elected to the Limpopo Provincial Legislature as a member of the African National Congress (ANC). This marked the start of her long tenure in South African politics.
3. Executive Mayor of Waterberg District Municipality
In 2008, she made history by becoming the Executive Mayor of the Waterberg District Municipality in Limpopo. Her leadership in this role was significant in her rise within the political landscape of the province.
4. Deputy Provincial Secretary of the ANC Limpopo
By 2008, she was elected Deputy Provincial Secretary of the ANC’s Limpopo branch, a role she held until 2012. She was a close ally of key political figures like Premier Cassel Mathale.
5. MEC for Roads and Transport (2009-2012)
After being re-elected to the Limpopo Provincial Legislature in 2009, Kekana was appointed as Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Roads and Transport. Her tenure was marked by both administrative challenges and political scrutiny.
6. Accusations and Political Scrutiny
Kekana faced significant political pressure in 2012 when the Public Protector reported that she had improperly approved a state contract linked to former ANC Youth League President Julius Malema. This caused a stir, but Kekana continued to maintain her position.
7. MEC for Economic Development (2012-2013)
Following a cabinet reshuffle in 2012, Kekana was appointed MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs, and Tourism. This move reflected her growing influence in Limpopo’s provincial government.
8. Departure from Provincial Government
In 2013, with the resignation of Premier Mathale, Kekana lost her MEC position following a reshuffle by new Premier Stan Mathabatha. Despite the setback, she remained an important figure in ANC politics.
9. National Assembly Member (2014-Present)
Pinky Kekana transitioned to national politics in 2014, when she was elected to the National Assembly. Ranked 10th on the ANC’s provincial party list, her political influence extended to the national stage.
10. Elected to the ANC National Executive Committee
In 2017, Kekana’s influence in the ANC grew when she was elected to the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC). This position further solidified her role in shaping the party’s future.
11. Deputy Minister of Communications (2018-2021)
After Cyril Ramaphosa became President of South Africa in 2018, Kekana was appointed as Deputy Minister of Communications. In 2019, her portfolio expanded to include Telecommunications, reflecting the growing importance of technology in governance.
12. Deputy Minister in the Presidency (2021-2023)
In a mid-term cabinet reshuffle in 2021, President Ramaphosa appointed Kekana as Deputy Minister in the Presidency. Her role was pivotal in supporting various government initiatives related to planning, monitoring, and evaluation.
13. Leadership in ANC Women’s League
Kekana’s leadership within the ANC extended beyond the NEC; in 2015, she was elected to the National Executive Committee of the ANC Women’s League, further showcasing her advocacy for women in politics.
14. Return to the Presidency for Planning and Monitoring (2023-2024)
After the ANC’s 55th National Conference, Kekana was appointed Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation. Her position aimed to improve governance and ensure efficient monitoring of state projects.
15. Current Role as Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration (2024-Present)
In July 2024, Kekana was appointed as Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, where she works to improve the efficiency of South Africa’s public service sector. This role places her at the heart of governmental reforms and development.