Who is Jacob Zuma?
Jacob Zuma, a name that ignites passionate loyalty and fierce condemnation across South Africa’s political spectrum, stands as an indelible figure whose journey from the rural hills of Nkandla to the presidency and leadership of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party encapsulates the triumphs and tumult of a nation’s post-apartheid era.
Born Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma on May 12, 1942, this self-educated anti-apartheid guerrilla, who served ten years on Robben Island, rose from ANC exile to South Africa’s Deputy President and President, only to resign in 2018 amid corruption scandals that have shadowed his legacy.
At 83, Zuma’s path, marked by his populist charisma, the polarizing Nkandla controversy, and the MK Party’s 2024 electoral surge, reflects a potent blend of revolutionary zeal, political resilience, and divisive governance, positioning him as a towering yet contentious icon in South Africa’s democratic saga as of May 26, 2025.
This Jacob Zuma’s biography delves into the complex ascent and turbulent legacy of a leader whose life bridges the raw defiance of apartheid resistance with the intricate challenges of governing a divided nation, offering a lens into the interplay of personal conviction, populist appeal, and systemic corruption allegations that define his influence.
From his early days herding cattle in KwaZulu-Natal to his roles in Burundi peace talks and BRICS diplomacy, Zuma’s career spans historic contributions and grave controversies, including the arms deal scandal, Gupta family ties, and a 2021 imprisonment for contempt that sparked deadly riots.
His personal life, shaped by polygamy, family scandals, and an unwavering rural base, adds depth to a figure whose charisma continues to reshape political fault lines.
What follows is an in-depth exploration of his early years, anti-apartheid activism, storied presidency, major achievements, personal life, and the evolving legacy of a man whose name, synonymous with both struggle and scandal, continues to reverberate from Nkandla’s homestead to Pretoria’s power corridors, one defiant step at a time.
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma’s Bio-Data
| Name | Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma |
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1942 |
| Age | 83 years old |
| Place of Birth | Nkandla, Natal Province (now KwaZulu-Natal), South Africa |
| Current Political Affiliation | President of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party (since April 2024) |
| Source | Bsgistnews.com |
Early Life and Education
Jacob Zuma was born on April 12, 1942, in Nkandla, Natal Province (now KwaZulu-Natal), South Africa, to Nobhekisisa Zuma, a policeman, and Geinamazwi Zuma, a domestic worker.
His middle name, Gedleyihlekisa, meaning “one who smiles while causing you harm” in Zulu, reflects his clan’s cultural wit.
After his father’s death when Zuma was five, his mother moved the family frequently around Natal and Durban’s suburbs, including kwaMaphumulo, where Zuma herded cattle instead of attending school.
He received no formal education but taught himself to read and write using peers’ books, later organizing a night school with a teacher paid 25 cents for lessons.
Jacob Zuma had at least three brothers, Michael, Joseph, and Khanya, and a sister, Velephi, with Michael later implicated in leveraging Zuma’s influence for a 2011 government contract.
His cousin Muntukabongwa Zuma, a trade unionist and ANC member, sparked his early political consciousness in Mkhumbane (Cato Manor).
Zuma’s Career Before Political Prominence
Jacob Zuma’s anti-apartheid activism began early. At 17, he joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1959, the ANC Youth League, and the South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU).
Inspired by the 1950s Defiance Campaign and Freedom Charter, he was mentored by figures like Moses Mabhida and Harry Gwala.
In 1962, he joined Umkhonto weSizwe (MK), the ANC’s military wing, and was recruited into the South African Communist Party (SACP) by Mabhida.
Arrested in June 1963 near Zeerust with 52 MK recruits, he was convicted of conspiring to overthrow the apartheid government and sentenced to 10 years on Robben Island, where he served alongside Nelson Mandela from 1963 to 1973.
On Robben Island, Jacob Zuma boosted morale with songs and theatre, earning a reputation for camaraderie.
Released in December 1973, Zuma married his first wife, Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo, and reestablished ANC underground structures in Natal by 1974.
Fleeing arrest in 1975, he went into exile in Swaziland, then Mozambique, engaging in sabotage operations and underground work with Thabo Mbeki.
In 1976, he was detained in Swaziland’s Matsapa prison but released after ANC intervention.
By 1977, he joined the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) and completed a three-month military and leadership course in the Soviet Union in 1978.
In 1984, he became Deputy Chief Representative of the ANC in Mozambique, but the 1984 Nkomati Accord forced his relocation to Lusaka, Zambia, where he served as Chief of Intelligence and Head of Underground Structures.
He participated in early negotiations with South African officials in the late 1980s, alongside Mbeki, paving the way for the ANC’s unbanning.
Jacob Zuma’s Political Career
Returning to South Africa in 1990 after the ANC’s unbanning, Jacob Zuma was elected chairperson of the ANC’s Southern Natal region and joined negotiations with the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) to curb KwaZulu-Natal’s political violence.
In 1991, he became ANC Deputy Secretary-General and, in 1994, a member of KwaZulu-Natal’s executive committee for economic affairs and tourism.
Elected ANC National Chairperson in 1994, he served concurrently as provincial chairperson, an exception to ANC rules.
In 1997, he became ANC Deputy President and, in 1999, South Africa’s Deputy President under Thabo Mbeki.
As Deputy President, Zuma mediated peace processes in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and launched the Moral Regeneration Movement.
He established the Jacob Zuma RDP Educational Trust Fund in 1998 to support disadvantaged students.
In 2005, Mbeki dismissed Zuma as Deputy President after Schabir Shaik’s conviction for bribing Zuma in a 1990s arms deal, leading to Zuma’s resignation from Parliament.
That year, he faced rape charges, acquitted in May 2006 after claiming consensual sex, though his comment about showering to prevent HIV drew ridicule.
In December 2007, Zuma defeated Mbeki for ANC presidency, capitalizing on his populist appeal and “Bring Me My Machine Gun” anthem.
After Mbeki’s 2008 resignation following allegations of interfering in Zuma’s prosecution, Zuma led the ANC to victory in 2009, becoming South Africa’s President on May 9, 2009.
Zuma’s presidency (2009–2018) focused on the National Development Plan 2030 to reduce poverty and inequality and strengthened BRICS ties.
However, it was marred by economic stagnation, unemployment, and corruption allegations, costing the economy an estimated R1 trillion (US$83 billion).
The 2012 Nkandla scandal, involving R246 million in public funds for non-security upgrades to his homestead, led to a 2014 Public Protector report by Thuli Madonsela and a 2016 Constitutional Court ruling ordering repayment.
His ties to the Gupta family fueled “state capture” claims, with a 2013 incident involving their private plane landing at a government airbase amplifying criticism.
Re-elected in 2014, Jacob Zuma faced growing unrest, including the 2012 Marikana massacre inquiry and a 2015 decision to replace Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene with Des van Rooyen, which crashed the rand.
In December 2017, Cyril Ramaphosa succeeded Jacob Zuma as ANC president, and after months of pressure, including a no-confidence vote threat, Zuma resigned as South Africa’s President on February 14, 2018.
In 2021, he was sentenced to 15 months for contempt of court for defying the Zondo Commission, serving two months before medical parole, sparking riots that killed over 300.
In December 2023, Zuma endorsed the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, becoming its president in April 2024, leading to his ANC expulsion in July 2024, confirmed in November 2024.
The MK Party secured 8% in the 2024 election, performing strongly in KwaZulu-Natal.
Major Achievements
Jacob Zuma’s achievements include his anti-apartheid contributions, serving 10 years on Robben Island and rebuilding ANC networks in exile.
His mediation in Burundi and DRC conflicts as Deputy President earned international respect.
The National Development Plan 2030 aimed to address inequality, and BRICS partnerships bolstered South Africa’s global standing.
His RDP Educational Trust Fund supported disadvantaged students, and his populist style connected with rural communities, sustaining his influence via the MK Party.
Awards include the 1998 Nelson Mandela Award for Outstanding Leadership, a 2010 UK Order of the Bath, and Nigeria’s Imo Merit Award in 2017, alongside honorary doctorates from the University of Zululand, Fort Hare, and others.
Personal Life
A proud polygamist in Zulu tradition, Zuma has been married six times to Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo (1973–present), Kate Mantsho (1976–2000, died by suicide), Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (1982–1998, divorced), Nompumelelo Ntuli (2008–present), Thobeka Madiba (2010–present), and Gloria Bongi Ngema (2012–present).
He has at least 20 children, including a child born out of wedlock in 2010 with Sonono Khoza, which drew criticism for contradicting HIV/AIDS policies.
His nephew Clive Khulubuse Zuma was linked to a controversial DRC oil deal in the Panama Papers.
His eldest son, Edward, was tied to suspicious payments in a R3.5 billion Prasa deal.
Jacob Zuma resides in Nkandla, where his homestead remains a symbol of controversy.
His X activity, via supporters like @MusaMzilikazi, highlights his enduring grassroots appeal.
Legacy and Impact
At 83, as of May 26, 2025, Jacob Zuma’s net worth is unverified, with estimates ranging from modest to inflated figures tied to alleged corruption, though his legal battles and pension constraints suggest limited liquidity.
His legacy is deeply polarized: a liberation hero who served on Robben Island and brokered peace in KwaZulu-Natal, yet a president whose tenure is synonymous with “state capture” and economic stagnation.
Supporters on X praise his MK Intelligence Unit role and Codesa negotiations, viewing him as a victim of political vendettas, while critics, like @goolammv, label him the “godfather of corruption.”
The Nkandla scandal, arms deal charges (reinstated in 2017, trial ongoing), and Gupta ties cemented his controversial image, with the 2012 The Spear painting igniting debates on race and censorship.
His 2021 imprisonment and riots underscored his enduring influence, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where MK’s 2024 electoral gains challenge the ANC.
Jacob Zuma’s charisma, rooted in his modest upbringing and guerrilla past, sustains his base, but his scandals, rape acquittal, HIV comments, and financial impropriety, have tarnished his global reputation.
As he leads MK against Ramaphosa’s ANC, Jacob Zuma’s story, from Nkandla’s cattle herder to South Africa’s most divisive leader, remains a complex chapter of resilience, populism, and unresolved legal battles, shaping the nation’s political fault lines.
Conclusion
Jacob Zuma’s extraordinary and polarizing journey through South Africa’s political landscape stands as a vivid chronicle of revolutionary defiance, populist charisma, and profound controversy, a narrative that stretches from the humble homesteads of Nkandla to the tumultuous heights of the presidency and the leadership of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.
Born on April 12, 1942, Zuma transformed his lack of formal education and a decade-long imprisonment on Robben Island into a formidable career, rising from ANC exile to South Africa’s Deputy President, President, and now a resurgent opposition figure challenging the ANC’s dominance.
At 83, with an unverified net worth clouded by corruption allegations, his legacy, forged through anti-apartheid heroism, economic policy ambitions, and scandals like Nkandla and the Gupta ties, embodies the contradictions of a nation grappling with its liberation ideals and governance failures as of May 26, 2025.
His legacy is a complex tapestry of enduring contributions and divisive setbacks.
Jacob Zuma’s 10-year sacrifice on Robben Island and his role in rebuilding ANC networks during exile cemented his struggle credentials, lauded by supporters on X as a testament to his resilience.
His mediation in Burundi and DRC conflicts and the National Development Plan 2030 showcased diplomatic and developmental vision, while his BRICS advocacy elevated South Africa’s global role.
The MK Party’s 8% vote share in 2024, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, underscores his enduring appeal, yet his presidency’s R1 trillion economic toll, the 2012 Marikana massacre fallout, and “state capture” allegations, detailed in the Zondo Commission, cast a long shadow.
The Nkandla scandal, arms deal trial, and 2021 contempt sentence, sparking riots that killed over 300, remain defining stains, amplified by his rape acquittal and HIV comments.
On a personal level, Jacob Zuma remains a proud Zulu polygamist, married to six women, father to at least 20 children, whose Nkandla homestead symbolizes both cultural roots and political excess.
Family scandals, from his nephew’s DRC oil deal to his son’s Prasa payments, mirror his own legal battles, yet his grassroots connection, evident in X posts like @MusaMzilikazi’s, sustains his base.
As of May 26, 2025, Zuma stands at a critical juncture, his MK Party’s electoral gains and ongoing arms deal trial position him as both a political disruptor and a legal lightning rod, with a conviction potentially ending his career.
Whether history will remember him as a liberation icon who empowered the marginalized or the architect of South Africa’s “nine wasted years,” his impact, from Natal’s cattle trails to Pretoria’s power struggles, is indelible, a legacy of song, scandal, and unyielding defiance that continues to shape South Africa’s democratic fault lines, one populist rally at a time.
FAQs
Q. Who is Jacob Zuma?
Jacob Zuma, born Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma on April 12, 1942, in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, is a South African politician and former anti-apartheid activist who served as President of South Africa (2009–2018) and now leads the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which he founded in 2023.
Q. What is Jacob Zuma’s current political role?
As of May 26, 2025, Zuma is the President of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which secured 8% of the vote in the 2024 general election, particularly strong in KwaZulu-Natal, following his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC) in July 2024.
Q. What are the major controversies surrounding Jacob Zuma?
Zuma’s presidency was marred by the Nkandla scandal, where R246 million in public funds were spent on his homestead, leading to a 2016 Constitutional Court order to repay part of it. He faces ongoing arms deal corruption charges, was convicted of contempt in 2021 (serving two months), and is linked to “state capture” with the Gupta family, costing the economy an estimated R1 trillion.
Q. Why was Jacob Zuma imprisoned in 2021?
In 2021, Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in prison for contempt of court after refusing to testify at the Zondo Commission investigating state capture. His imprisonment triggered riots in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, killing over 300 people, and he was released on medical parole after two months.
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