09 Dec Welcome Minister Thembisile Simelane
We welcome Ms Thembisile Simelane as the new Minister of Human Settlements. Minister Simelane brings extensive experience to her role, having served in several key leadership positions. Most recently, she was Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development and previously served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs during the sixth administration of the Republic of South Africa. She also served as Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, building a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within government structures.
Her leadership journey includes her tenure as President of the South African Local Government Association, where she became only the second woman to hold the position since the organisation’s formation. She was also Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women in Local Government and continues to serve as Co-President of United Cities of Local Government. Before her national leadership roles, Minister Simelane made a meaningful impact as Executive Mayor of Polokwane Local Municipality in Limpopo Province. Before becoming Mayor, she built a solid foundation by holding various managerial positions in public administration and the private sector.
Minister Simelane holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree, a Higher Diploma in Education, and a Bachelor of Philosophy in Political Studies from the University of Stellenbosch. She also completed the Advanced Programme in Management at Wits Business School and earned her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Limpopo in 2022.
With over two decades of professional experience, Minister Simelane is well known for her innovative thinking, meticulous work ethic, and strong focus on delivering results. She has consistently championed initiatives that promote equitable access to essential government services, leaving a lasting impact wherever she serves.
We look forward to the leadership and dedication she will bring to the Human Settlements portfolio.