Zizi Kodwa, a prominent and often controversial figure in South African politics, has made his mark in various significant roles. From his early days as an ANC Youth League activist to his most recent cabinet appointment, the career of Zizi Kodwa has been filled with notable achievements, challenges, and political shifts. Here are 21 facts that give you a closer look at the life and career of Zizi Kodwa.
- Born in Gugulethu
Zizi Kodwa was born on January 19, 1970, in Gugulethu, a township outside Cape Town in the former Cape Province of South Africa. - Active Early on in Student Politics
His journey into politics began during his university years at the University of the Western Cape, where he became deeply involved in student activism and served as president of the student representative council. - Communications Background
After completing his studies in development studies, he worked as a marketing manager at Denel, before transitioning into communications with the ANC Youth League. - National Spokesperson of the ANC Youth League
Zizi rose through the ranks in the ANC Youth League, where he served as its national spokesperson, a position that thrust him into the national spotlight during his outspoken support for Jacob Zuma. - Zuma’s Chief Spokesperson
After Zuma’s rise to ANC president, Zizi played a key role as the party’s spokesperson, acting as one of Zuma’s chief propagandists in the fight against his political opponents. - Special Advisor in the Presidency
In 2010, Zizi became Zuma’s special adviser on communications, where he helped manage communication strategies within the presidency. - A Key Figure During Zuma’s Presidency
His close relationship with Jacob Zuma continued throughout Zuma’s tenure as president, including working on the political messaging surrounding Zuma’s leadership. - The Head of ANC Presidential Office
From 2018 to 2019, Zizi was appointed head of the ANC president’s office under Cyril Ramaphosa, following Zuma’s resignation. - Member of Parliament
Zizi was elected to the National Assembly in 2014, where he served briefly before becoming the ANC’s national spokesperson. - ANC National Executive Committee
Zizi has been a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) since 2012, playing a role in the party’s top decision-making body. - Controversial Comments in Support of Zuma
Zizi’s vocal support for Zuma extended to controversial comments made during the president’s legal challenges, such as his infamous statement to “hit the dog until the owner comes out.” - Ministerial Appointment
In March 2023, Zizi was appointed Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture by President Cyril Ramaphosa, succeeding Nathi Mthethwa in the position. - Deputy Minister of State Security
Before his ministerial appointment, Zizi served as Deputy Minister of State Security from 2019 until 2023, where he gained significant influence in the country’s security policies. - Involved in the 2021 Civil Unrest
As Deputy Minister of State Security, Zizi was involved in managing the government’s response to the July 2021 civil unrest, which he described as a “well-coordinated attack.” - Zondo Commission Testimony
Zizi was questioned at the Zondo Commission, which investigated corruption during Zuma’s presidency, regarding financial links with private companies that raised concerns about state capture. - Corruption Allegations and Legal Troubles
Zizi was arrested in June 2024 for allegedly receiving bribes, related to a corrupt contract deal in Johannesburg. His arrest followed recommendations from the Zondo Commission. - Charges Dropped
In a twist, the charges against Zizi were later dropped in October 2024, with him claiming the state’s case was weak. However, his involvement in corruption cases remained a topic of controversy. - Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Development Studies
Zizi’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts and Honours in development studies from the University of the Western Cape. - Member of the ANC National Working Committee
Zizi’s influence within the ANC extends beyond the NEC, as he has also been a member of the National Working Committee since 2017. - Personal Life
Zizi is married to Zama Ngubane, and they tied the knot in December 2011 at the Durban Botanic Gardens. He is also known for his fondness for silk cravats and high-profile social events. - A Controversial Figure in South African Politics
Zizi’s career is marked by both remarkable achievements and significant controversies, including his involvement in ANC infighting, his outspoken support for Jacob Zuma, and his controversial legal issues.