Gwen Malegwale Ramokgopa, a name that resonates within South Africa’s political and healthcare spheres, has proven herself to be one of the country’s most capable and influential politicians. From being the first female mayor of Tshwane to becoming the Treasurer-General of the African National Congress (ANC), her journey has been marked by notable achievements in both public health and governance. Here are 20 key facts about Gwen Ramokgopa that showcase her career and impact on South Africa.
1. Born and Raised in Atteridgeville
Gwen Ramokgopa was born in Atteridgeville, a township outside Pretoria (now part of Gauteng), where she spent much of her formative years. Growing up in a vibrant community, she developed an early interest in public service and health, which later became central to her career.
2. Medical Doctor by Training
Ramokgopa holds a medical degree, which she earned in 1989 from the Medical University of South Africa. Her background as a medical doctor laid the foundation for her future work in the healthcare sector and public health.
3. Early Career as a Medical Officer
After completing her medical degree, she worked as a medical officer at Ga-Rankuwa Hospital until 1992, where she gained firsthand experience in the challenges of South Africa’s healthcare system.
4. Master’s Degree in Public Health
In 2007, Ramokgopa furthered her expertise by obtaining a Master’s degree in Public Health, which played a key role in shaping her understanding of health systems and policies in South Africa.
5. MEC for Health in Gauteng (1999–2006)
In 1999, Ramokgopa was appointed as the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Health in the Gauteng provincial government. She held the position until 2006, during which she worked to improve healthcare services in the region.
6. Controversy Over Ga-Rankuwa Hospital Name
In 2003, Ramokgopa caused controversy by proposing the renaming of Ga-Rankuwa Hospital after Dr. George Mukhari, a local doctor and activist. Critics argued she had not consulted the community properly, leading to heated debates on the decision.
7. First Female Mayor of Tshwane (2006–2010)
Ramokgopa made history in 2006 when she became the first female Mayor of Tshwane, overseeing the governance of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. Her leadership helped lay the groundwork for Tshwane’s modernization.
8. Campaign to Rebrand Pretoria as Tshwane
During her tenure as mayor, Ramokgopa spearheaded efforts to rebrand Pretoria (the administrative capital) as Tshwane, a project aimed at promoting the city’s broader identity. However, the initiative was met with criticism, and some believed it lacked proper public consultation.
9. National Deputy Minister of Health (2010–2014)
In 2010, Ramokgopa was appointed Deputy Minister of Health under Minister Aaron Motsoaledi in President Jacob Zuma’s cabinet. She served in this capacity until 2014, focusing on improving health services nationwide.
10. Chancellor of Tshwane University of Technology
During the #FeesMustFall protests in 2015, Ramokgopa was appointed Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology, a largely ceremonial role that placed her in the spotlight on higher education issues.
11. Return to Health MEC in Gauteng (2017–2019)
In 2017, Ramokgopa was reappointed as Health MEC for Gauteng by Premier David Makhura. She took over in the aftermath of the Life Esidimeni tragedy and worked to restore confidence in the province’s healthcare system.
12. Elected to ANC National Executive Committee (2017)
In 2017, Ramokgopa was elected to the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ANC, marking a significant milestone in her national political career. She was later co-opted into the NEC’s National Working Committee.
13. Served in ANC Provincial Executive (2010–2018)
Ramokgopa also played a major role in the ANC’s Gauteng Provincial Executive Committee. She served as Deputy Provincial Chairperson (2010–2014) and Deputy Provincial Secretary (2014–2018), aligning with key figures like Paul Mashatile.
14. Coordinated Secretary-General’s Office (2022)
In 2022, during a transitional phase at the ANC headquarters, Ramokgopa was brought in to coordinate the Secretary-General’s office due to suspensions and illnesses among the party leadership.
15. ANC Treasurer-General (2022–Present)
In December 2022, Ramokgopa was elected Treasurer-General of the ANC during the party’s 55th National Conference. She won with 41.76% of the vote, defeating several candidates and solidifying her position as a financial steward of the party.
16. Her Victory in the ANC Treasurer-General Election
Ramokgopa’s win for Treasurer-General was a significant moment in her political career, where she garnered 1,809 votes, surpassing rivals like Pule Mabe and Bejani Chauke in a competitive race for leadership.
17. Political Ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa
Throughout her career, Ramokgopa has been considered a strong political ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly within the ANC’s pro-Ramaphosa faction. Her election as Treasurer-General further solidified this connection.
18. Key Figure in ANC Leadership Transition
Ramokgopa has played a key role in the ANC’s leadership transition, particularly during the party’s post-Zuma era. Her experience in both provincial and national politics has made her an important figure within the party’s future.
19. Married with Three Children
Ramokgopa is married to Allen Lephoko, and the couple has three children. While her public life is filled with political responsibilities, she has managed to maintain a balance with her family life.
20. A Legacy in Public Service
Throughout her career, Ramokgopa has left a legacy in public health, municipal leadership, and national governance. She continues to play a pivotal role in shaping both ANC policies and the future of South Africa’s public service.