Maropene Ramokgopa is an influential South African politician who has steadily climbed the political ranks. From humble beginnings in Polokwane to becoming a Cabinet Minister in 2023, her career is a testament to dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to the country. Here are 20 key facts about Maropene Ramokgopa that you should know.
1. Born in Polokwane, 1979
Maropene Ramokgopa was born on 31 December 1979 in Polokwane, then part of the former Transvaal. She grew up in Lebowakgomo, a township outside Polokwane, where she became active in student and community movements.
2. Political Affiliation: African National Congress (ANC)
Ramokgopa is a dedicated member of the African National Congress (ANC), South Africa’s ruling political party, where she holds significant positions, including that of the Second Deputy Secretary-General.
3. Mayor at Age 26
At the age of just 26, Ramokgopa was elected Mayor of the Siyanda District Municipality in the Northern Cape, serving from 2006 to 2009. This was an impressive achievement, considering her age and the responsibility that came with the role.
4. First ANC Councillor in Kgatelopele
In 2005, Ramokgopa became a ward councillor in the Kgatelopele Local Municipality, marking her official entry into politics as an ANC representative.
5. Youth Leadership in ANC and ANCWL
Ramokgopa has been a strong force in youth and women’s leadership. She was elected to the National Executive Committee of the ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) in 2008 and was involved in establishing its Young Women’s Desk.
6. Appointed to Manage ANC Youth League’s Interim Task Team
After the ANC Youth League’s leadership was disbanded in 2013, Ramokgopa was appointed to the interim task team to lead the organization during a transitional phase.
7. Served in the National Youth Development Agency
Her commitment to youth development was further demonstrated in her role on the board of the National Youth Development Agency, focusing on fostering the empowerment of young South Africans.
8. Diplomatic Career Beginnings
In 2014, Ramokgopa entered the diplomatic arena by working as a manager in the office of the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.
9. Consul-General to Mumbai
From 2016, Ramokgopa served as South Africa’s Consul-General to Mumbai, India, where she played a pivotal role in strengthening diplomatic and trade relations between South Africa and India.
10. Special Advisor to President Cyril Ramaphosa
In 2018, Ramokgopa returned to South Africa and was appointed as a special advisor to President Cyril Ramaphosa, contributing to key international relations strategies within the Presidency.
11. Special Envoy During Eswatini Protests
Ramokgopa was one of five special envoys appointed by President Ramaphosa in October 2021 to engage with King Mswati of Eswatini during the pro-democracy protests that rocked the country.
12. Active in ANC Women’s League Reform
In June 2022, Ramokgopa was appointed as the coordinator of the interim task team to lead the ANC Women’s League (ANCWL), overseeing the league’s activities until new leadership was elected.
13. Elected as Second Deputy Secretary-General of the ANC
In December 2022, Ramokgopa was elected Second Deputy Secretary-General of the ANC at its 55th National Conference, winning 2,373 votes against Ronalda Nalumango.
14. Sworn into National Assembly in 2023
In February 2023, Ramokgopa took office as a Member of the National Assembly after being sworn in alongside fellow ANC leaders such as Paul Mashatile and Sihle Zikalala.
15. Appointed Minister in the Presidency in 2023
On 6 March 2023, Ramokgopa was appointed as Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, taking charge of government planning and accountability.
16. Key Role in Government Performance Monitoring
As Minister in the Presidency, Ramokgopa is tasked with overseeing the government’s monitoring and evaluation of national policies and programs, ensuring that they meet targets and deliver on their promises.
17. Acting Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture
In mid-2024, after Zizi Kodwa stepped aside due to corruption charges, Ramokgopa briefly served as Acting Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture until Gayton McKenzie succeeded her.
18. Reappointed After 2024 General Elections
Following the 2024 general elections, Ramokgopa was reappointed as Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation. She was sworn in for a second term in July 2024.
19. A Rising Star in ANC Politics
Ramokgopa is considered a key figure in the ANC’s future, often seen as a close ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa and a member of the party’s influential women’s caucus.
20. Passionate About Women’s Empowerment
Throughout her career, Ramokgopa has been an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. Her leadership in both the ANC Women’s League and the ANC Youth League highlights her dedication to advancing women’s issues in South Africa.