hembi Simelane, now a key figure in South African politics, has an intriguing journey marked by public service, political leadership, and personal challenges. Here are 21 essential facts you should know about her, from her early life to her current role as Minister of Human Settlements.
1. Born on February 10, 1973
Thembi Simelane, born Thembisile Phumelele Simelane in Bethal, Eastern Transvaal (now Mpumalanga), turned 52 years old in 2025. Her formative years during apartheid shaped her passion for activism and politics.
2. Her Early Involvement in Politics
As a high school student, Thembi Simelane was actively involved in the Congress of South African Students (COSAS), advocating for education and equality during apartheid.
3. A Student Leader at the University of the North
Simelane completed her higher education at the University of the North, where she was a student leader. She served as the deputy president of the student representative council and played a vital role in the South African Students Congress (SASCO).
4. Political Roots in Limpopo
Simelane’s political career began in Limpopo, where she served in various ANC branches and the Women’s League, laying the foundation for her future roles in public service.
5. Public Service Career: Director in Limpopo
From 1997, she worked in the government, notably serving as the director of communications in the Office of the Limpopo Premier between 2002 and 2006.
6. Corporate Sector Experience
Simelane moved into the corporate sector from 2009 to 2013, where she served as corporate affairs manager for Anglo American Platinum. Her work here honed her skills in management and governance.
7. Consulting Career
After leaving Anglo, she became the managing director of Golden Threads, a consultancy focused on corporate social investment, working with big clients such as Anglo and BKS.
8. A Master’s in Policy Studies
Simelane earned a Bachelor of Philosophy in policy studies from Stellenbosch University in 2001 and later pursued the Advanced Management Programme at Wits Business School.
9. First Female Mayor of Polokwane (2014–2021)
In July 2014, Thembi Simelane was appointed the first female executive mayor of Polokwane, where she served for seven years, spearheading development projects for the city.
10. Re-Elected in 2016
In August 2016, she was re-elected as mayor after a fiercely contested election, securing another term despite opposition challenges.
11. Leadership in Local Government
During her tenure as mayor, Simelane was elected president of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) in 2019, solidifying her influence in local governance.
12. Challenges and Controversies as Mayor
Her time as mayor wasn’t without its controversies. She faced opposition and threats, particularly during her failed bids for regional chairperson of the ANC’s Peter Mokaba branch in 2014 and 2018.
13. Advocate for Municipal Stability
As Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in 2023, Simelane focused on ensuring the stability of municipalities, particularly those led by coalitions.
14. Key Policies in Municipal Governance
She introduced critical reforms such as the Local Government: Municipal Structures Amendment Bill and the Intergovernmental Monitoring, Support, and Interventions Bill in 2023, aiming to strengthen local governance.
15. Promoted to Minister of Justice (2024)
In 2024, Simelane’s political journey took a significant leap as she was appointed Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet.
16. Reshuffled to Minister of Human Settlements (2024)
In December 2024, she was reshuffled and appointed as the Minister of Human Settlements, continuing her important work in governance and development.
17. Her Work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Simelane’s dedication to human rights is personal, as her sister, Nokuthula Simelane, was a victim of apartheid-era crimes. Thembi has led efforts to seek justice for her sister, who was kidnapped and tortured by the apartheid regime.
18. Controversial Loan from VBS Bank
In 2016, Simelane faced scrutiny over a loan of R575,600 she received from a VBS Bank fixer. The loan, linked to money laundering, was later investigated by the Hawks.
19. Her Sister’s Legacy
Nokuthula Simelane’s tragic disappearance during the apartheid era has become a significant part of Simelane’s life. Thembi has tirelessly campaigned for justice in her sister’s case, pushing for accountability in the TRC.
20. Divorce and Personal Life
Simelane was previously married to Chipyane Nkadimeng, a politician, until their divorce in 2019. In 2024, she became engaged to Matome Ralebipi, the chairperson of the Limpopo Roads Agency.
21. A Mother and Advocate for Family
Simelane is a dedicated mother of four children and has also raised her brother’s son, showing her commitment to family alongside her career.