Ronald Ozzy Lamola is one of South Africa’s most prominent politicians, known for his significant contributions to the country’s political landscape. As the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, he has held pivotal roles within the government, having previously served as the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services. A member of the African National Congress (ANC), Lamola’s career spans from his early days in politics to his rise to national prominence. Below are 20 interesting facts about this influential figure.
1. Early Life in Bushbuckridge
Born on 21 November 1983 in Bushbuckridge, South Africa, Ronald Lamola hails from the Mpumalanga province, which significantly shaped his views and career. His humble beginnings in the rural town played a key role in his development as a political figure committed to public service.
2. Early Political Engagement
Lamola’s political journey began at the age of 13, when he joined the ANC Youth League in 1996. This early involvement laid the foundation for his deep commitment to the African National Congress and its ideals.
3. Education at Mchacka High School
Lamola completed his high school education at Mchacka High School in 2000. His educational journey, however, was just beginning, as he would later pursue a law degree that would propel him into the world of politics and governance.
4. Law Degree from University of Venda
After matriculating, Lamola enrolled at the University of Venda, where he pursued a law degree. This period was vital in shaping his future career in law and politics. Lamola also served as the President of the Student Representative Council (SRC) during his time at the university.
5. Post-Graduate Studies at UNISA
Lamola didn’t stop with his initial law degree. He furthered his studies at the University of South Africa (UNISA), obtaining a post-graduate certificate in corporate law in 2008, marking the start of his specialization in the legal and financial fields.
6. Master’s Degrees from University of Pretoria
Lamola holds two master’s degrees in corporate law, earned from the University of Pretoria. His academic achievements reflect his dedication to understanding the complexities of law in both the corporate and governmental sectors.
7. Career as a Lawyer
Before venturing into politics, Lamola worked as a lawyer at TMN Kgomo and Associates starting in 2006. This legal background has greatly informed his approach to governance and law-making.
8. Manager at Govan Mbeki Local Municipality
Lamola’s career in the public sector began in 2009, when he worked as a manager at the Govan Mbeki Local Municipality. His time there provided him with invaluable experience in local government administration.
9. Director for Mpumalanga MEC
From 2009 to 2011, Lamola served as the Director in the Office of the Mpumalanga MEC for Culture, Sports, and Recreation. This role broadened his understanding of the provincial governance structure in South Africa.
10. Acting Spokesperson for Premier Mabuza
In 2011, Lamola briefly served as the acting spokesperson for Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza. This role gave him exposure to the media side of politics, handling communication and public relations.
11. Deputy President of ANC Youth League
Lamola rose to prominence within the ANC Youth League, where he served as Deputy President. This leadership role saw him closely working with prominent figures like Julius Malema.
12. Criticism of Jacob Zuma
Lamola has been an outspoken critic of former ANC President Jacob Zuma. He endorsed Kgalema Motlanthe to succeed Zuma in 2012, which showcased his stance on leadership within the party.
13. 2014 National Elections Candidacy
In the 2014 national elections, Lamola was a candidate for the National Assembly, though he was not elected due to his position on the ANC’s national list. Despite this setback, his political journey continued to gain momentum.
14. Resurgence in 2017 with Ramaphosa
Lamola’s career saw a revival in 2017 when he publicly endorsed Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC President. This endorsement helped him regain his footing within the ANC’s leadership circles.
15. Appointment to the ANC National Executive Committee
In December 2017, Lamola was elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC), further solidifying his position as a key figure within the party.
16. Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
In 2019, Lamola was appointed as Minister of Justice and Correctional Services by President Cyril Ramaphosa. His time in this role was marked by significant reforms in South Africa’s justice system, including efforts to address corruption and improve transparency.
17. Re-Election to ANC NEC in 2022
Lamola’s influence within the ANC continued to grow, as he was re-elected to the party’s NEC during its 55th National Conference in December 2022. This re-election reaffirmed his central role in shaping the party’s direction.
18. Leader of ANC’s Legal Affairs Sub-Committee
In September 2023, Lamola was appointed to head the ANC NEC Sub-committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs. This new position positioned him as a leader in shaping the party’s legal and constitutional policies.
19. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
In July 2024, Lamola was appointed as South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. This promotion came as part of a broader reshuffle following the formation of a Government of National Unity. He succeeded Naledi Pandor in this role, a task that has involved managing South Africa’s foreign policy.
20. Continuity in Foreign Policy
Under Lamola’s leadership, South Africa’s foreign policy has continued along the same assertive and robust path that was established during Naledi Pandor’s tenure. His approach has focused on strengthening South Africa’s global presence and fostering international cooperation.
Ronald Lamola’s journey from a young political enthusiast to a key member of the South African government reflects his dedication to serving his country. His influence on both national and international policy underscores his commitment to South Africa’s future, making him a leader worth watching in the years to come.