Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nokuzola Gladys Tolashe |
| Known As | Sisisi Tolashe |
| Date of Birth | 21 December 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Queenstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Current Position | Minister of Social Development (since July 2024) |
| Previous Roles | Deputy Minister in the Presidency (Women, Youth, Disabilities) |
| Political Affiliation | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Notable Roles in ANC | President of ANC Women’s League (elected July 2023), NEC Member (since 2022) |
| Education | Attended schools in Queenstown |
| Years in Politics | Active since youth activism in the 1980s |
Sisisi Tolashe, born on 21 December 1959 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, is a trailblazing South African politician and prominent member of the African National Congress (ANC). With a history steeped in activism and a commitment to public service, Tolashe has risen through the ranks of both government and the ANC over several decades.
Early Life and Activism
Growing up in Queenstown, Tolashe was drawn to activism at a young age, particularly during the anti-apartheid movement of the 1980s. Her leadership roles in youth and civic organizations under the United Democratic Front (UDF) often put her in conflict with apartheid authorities. She endured five years of detention, three under Section 29 of the Internal Security Act and two during the state of emergency. Despite the harassment and torture, these experiences galvanized her commitment to social justice and the empowerment of women.
Political Career Highlights
Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature (2001–2008)
In 2001, Tolashe entered formal politics as a member of the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. She served until 2008, a period during which she gained national recognition for her contributions to policy and governance. At the ANC’s 52nd National Conference in 2007, she was elected to the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC).
Secretary-General of the ANC Women’s League (2008–2015)
Tolashe became Secretary-General of the ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) in 2008, working alongside Angie Motshekga. During her tenure, she was a vocal advocate for gender representation in politics, emphasizing the need for a woman to lead the ANC in the future.
Mayor of Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (2018–2019)
After a brief term in Parliament from 2016 to 2018, Tolashe transitioned to local government as the Executive Mayor of the Enoch Mgijima Municipality. Her appointment was part of an ANC initiative to stabilize struggling municipalities.
Recent Leadership Roles
Return to National Assembly and Deputy Ministerial Role
Re-elected to the National Assembly in 2019, Tolashe chaired the Ad Hoc Committee for the Auditor-General’s appointment in 2020 and contributed to key parliamentary committees. In March 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed her Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities.
Minister of Social Development (2024–Present)
In July 2024, Tolashe was appointed Minister of Social Development, a role that aligns with her lifelong dedication to uplifting marginalized communities.
President of ANC Women’s League (2023–Present)
Tolashe cemented her position as a leading advocate for women’s rights when she was elected President of the ANCWL in 2023. Her victory marked a return to the league’s leadership, positioning her as a powerful voice within the ANC.