Lagos, Nigeria – A key figure in South African politics, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has been serving as Minister in the Presidency since March 6, 2023.
Entrusted with vital portfolios such as State Security, Government Communications and Information Systems, and Statistics South Africa, she has distinguished herself through her innovative leadership and commitment to inclusive national development.
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Ntshavheni is also in the global spotlight as South Africa takes on the G20 presidency, the first African nation to do so. “This is not just about diplomacy; it’s about showcasing South Africa as a driver of inclusive growth, reducing inequality, and asserting Africa’s role on the global stage,” she said during a recent press briefing in Johannesburg.
Born on January 30, 1977, in Sibasa, Limpopo, Ntshavheni overcame the challenges of growing up during apartheid to become one of South Africa’s most dynamic leaders.
She holds an MBA from the University of Bradford in the UK, alongside undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in development studies from the University of Johannesburg, as well as additional qualifications in information systems and project management.
Her professional journey began as a lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA) before she broke barriers to become South Africa’s youngest municipal manager, serving at Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality.
She later held influential positions, including Chief Operations Officer at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) and Chief Information Officer for Limpopo, where she spearheaded projects to modernize public systems and enhance service delivery.
Ntshavheni’s accomplishments in public office and the private sector have been wide-ranging and impactful. In 2019, she was appointed Minister of Small Business Development, where she launched the Township and Rural Entrepreneurship Programme (TREP), helping small businesses access funding, markets, and development support. Her leadership was critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she coordinated government relief efforts for small and medium enterprises.
In 2021, she took on the role of Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, delivering on key initiatives: Completing the long-delayed Broadcast Digital Migration, switching off analog signals in five provinces; Rolling out over 36,000 community Wi-Fi hotspots, expected to be completed by 2025;
Establishing the Artificial Intelligence Institute of South Africa and the DigiTech platform to promote African-developed digital solutions globally.
Fast-tracking the corporatization of Postbank, transforming it into a state-owned bank, and introducing a revamped “Post Office of Tomorrow.
As South Africa assumes the G20 presidency, Ntshavheni is leading efforts to harness this opportunity to benefit all provinces. With over 130 meetings planned across the country, the first major event is set for December 9-10 in Gauteng.
“The G20 presidency provides an unprecedented opportunity to position South Africa as a champion of inclusive economic growth and sustainable development,” she noted.
She has also introduced Township20, an initiative to showcase the economic, cultural, and creative contributions of South Africa’s township communities. “This is a moment to celebrate the ingenuity of our people and attract investments that will uplift marginalized communities,” she added.
Ntshavheni’s leadership is deeply rooted in her advocacy for gender equality, youth empowerment, and digital inclusion.
She is a member of the National Executive Committee of the African National Congress (ANC) and an active participant in the Prayer Women’s League of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Southern Africa, reflecting her commitment to faith and community service.
As a leader, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to governance, blending strategic vision with a focus on innovation and social equity.
Her leadership of the G20 presidency and her transformative domestic initiatives are helping to position South Africa as a global force in economic and digital innovation.
With the trust of the South African people and growing recognition on the international stage, Ntshavheni’s work demonstrates that bold leadership and tangible actions can reshape not only a nation but the perception of an entire continent.