Quick Facts
| Full Name | Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 9 November 1958 |
| Place of Birth | Muden, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Current Position | Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (since 3 July 2024) |
| Political Affiliation | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Parliamentary Service | Member of the National Assembly since 2004 |
| Previous Positions | – Minister of Transport (6 March 2023 – 19 June 2024)- Deputy Minister of Transport (2012–2019, 2021–2023)- Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration (2019–2021) |
| Education | – Master of Arts in Curationis, University of Pretoria- Bachelor of Arts in Curationis, University of South Africa- Honours Degree in Curationis, University of South Africa- Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery, Edenvale Nursing College |
| Professional Background | Midwife |
Early Life and Education
Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga was born on 9 November 1958 in Muden, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. She is the daughter of Rev. Lucas Gcaba, a Lutheran church pastor. Her upbringing involved frequent relocations, including time spent in Greytown and Kopleegte, where she completed her primary schooling.
Chikunga pursued higher education in healthcare, obtaining a Diploma in Nursing Science and a Midwifery Diploma from Edenvale Nursing College. She continued her academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Arts in Curationis and an Honours Degree in Curationis from the University of South Africa (UNISA). She later achieved a Master of Arts in Curationis from the University of Pretoria. Chikunga is currently furthering her studies in Political Science at UNISA.
Political Career
Chikunga’s political career spans several significant roles. She has been a member of the African National Congress (ANC) since her youth, joining the DCO Makiwane Youth League in 1982. Over the years, she has held numerous leadership positions:
- Regional Leadership: Served on the ANC and ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) Regional Executive Committees. Positions included Ex Officio Member, Regional Secretary, and Chairperson of the ANCWL branch in Queen Lebotsibeni.
- Parliamentary Service: Elected to the National Assembly in 2004. Chikunga served on key committees, including the Correctional Services Portfolio Committee, Joint Budget Portfolio Committee, Housing Portfolio Committee, and as Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police (2009–2012).
- Executive Roles: Appointed as Deputy Minister of Transport (2012–2019, 2021–2023), Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration (2019–2021), and Minister of Transport (2023–2024). In July 2024, she was appointed Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities.
Achievements and Impact
Throughout her extensive career, Chikunga has been known for her dedication to public service and governance. Her work in various ministerial capacities has involved oversight of transport systems, public administration reforms, and championing issues related to women and youth.
Personal Life
Chikunga is a midwife by profession and has balanced her medical expertise with her passion for political leadership. Her diverse experiences and extensive service record highlight her commitment to improving the lives of South Africans.