Cyril Ramaphosa Biography
Cyril Ramaphosa is one of the most remarkable leaders in South Africa’s history, a man whose life has taken many paths yet always returned to service. He has been a student activist, a trade union leader, a lawyer, a shrewd businessman, and ultimately the President of South Africa. His journey is not just about politics or money, it is a story of patience, determination, and resilience.
Early Life and Family Background
Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa was born on 17 November 1952 in Soweto, Johannesburg. Soweto was more than just a township; it was the beating heart of resistance against apartheid. Growing up there exposed Cyril to the everyday struggles and injustices faced by Black South Africans under a deeply oppressive system.
Cyril was the second of three children. His father, Samuel Ramaphosa, worked as a policeman, while his mother, Erdmuth, was a homemaker who kept the family grounded. Their household was not rich in material things, but it was rich in values, discipline, love and a constant reminder that education was the key to a brighter future.
As a child, Cyril was quiet and observant. He enjoyed reading and loved exploring new ideas. His parents nurtured this curiosity, encouraging him and his siblings to work hard at school. Education was viewed as the only reliable ladder out of poverty and hardship.
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Education and Student Activism
Cyril’s schooling started at Tshilidzi Primary School. He later attended Sekano Ntoane High School and completed his matric in 1971 at Mphaphuli High School in Limpopo.
In 1972, he entered the University of the North (Turfloop) to study law. It was here that his life took a decisive turn. At university, Cyril became active in politics, joining the South African Students Organisation (SASO) and the Black People’s Convention (BPC). Both groups strongly opposed apartheid and advocated for the rights and dignity of Black South Africans.
His activism quickly made him a target of the apartheid regime. In 1974, he was arrested under the Terrorism Act and spent 11 months in solitary confinement. Two years later, during the Soweto Uprising of 1976, he was arrested again and imprisoned for six months.
Despite these hardships, Cyril did not abandon his studies. He worked as a law clerk in Johannesburg while continuing his education by correspondence through the University of South Africa (UNISA). In 1981, he finally graduated with a B. Proc degree in law.
Trade Union Leadership
Instead of entering private legal practice, Ramaphosa chose a more challenging path. He decided to use his legal skills to protect and represent mineworkers, who were among the most exploited workers in South Africa.
In 1982, he became the first General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). The mining industry was notorious for its harsh conditions—miners faced low pay, dangerous working environments, and no rights. Ramaphosa fought tirelessly to change this.
He organized strikes, led negotiations with powerful mining companies, and drew global attention to the plight of South African miners. Under his leadership, NUM grew into the largest and most influential trade union in the country. His success here gave him national recognition and prepared him for a bigger role in politics.
Political Career and Role in Ending Apartheid
By the late 1980s, Cyril was already a respected leader. In 1991, he was elected Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), at a time when South Africa was entering a new era. Nelson Mandela had been released from prison, and negotiations with the apartheid government were underway.
Ramaphosa became one of the chief negotiators, working to bring both sides to the table. His calm, logical, and strategic approach helped shape the future of South Africa. He also played a major role in drafting the 1996 Constitution, which remains one of the most progressive in the world. This constitution enshrined human rights, freedom, and equality for all South Africans.
Many people believed that Nelson Mandela saw Cyril as his preferred successor. However, the ANC leadership chose Thabo Mbeki instead. Though disappointed, Ramaphosa did not turn away from serving his country. Instead, he redirected his focus to another sphere of influence that is, business.
Business Ventures
In 1996, Ramaphosa stepped away from frontline politics and focused on business. In 2001, he founded Shanduka Group, an investment company that grew into one of the most successful Black-owned businesses in South Africa.
Through Shanduka, Ramaphosa invested in a wide range of industries such as:
- Telecommunications (shares in MTN)
- Banking (Standard Bank)
- Fast food (McDonald’s South Africa)
- Beverages (Coca-Cola)
- Mining companies
- Transport and logistics (Bidvest)
This venture turned him into one of the wealthiest Black businessmen in the country. He also sat on the boards of major corporations, further cementing his reputation as a capable businessman.
Return to Politics
After almost two decades in business, Cyril returned to politics. In 2012, he was elected Deputy President of the ANC, and in 2014, he became Deputy President of South Africa under President Jacob Zuma.
By 2017, the ANC was facing internal divisions and corruption scandals. Ramaphosa contested for the leadership of the party, won, and became President of the ANC. In February 2018, after Zuma’s resignation, Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in as the fifth President of South Africa.
As president, he promised to root out corruption, create jobs, and improve the struggling economy. His leadership has been tested by major challenges, including high unemployment, inequality, and slow economic growth. Still, he continues to play a key role in shaping South Africa’s political and economic future.
Personal Life and Marriage
Cyril Ramaphosa has been married three times.
- His first marriage was to Hope Ramaphosa in 1979. They had one son together before divorcing in 1989.
- His second marriage was to Nomazizi Mtshotshisa in 1991, which ended in 1993.
- In 1996, he married Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, a medical doctor and businesswoman, who is also the sister of billionaire Patrice Motsepe. She currently serves as the First Lady of South Africa.
In total, Ramaphosa is believed to have five children. While he is a public figure, he has always tried to keep his family life private.
Achievements and Contributions
- Built the NUM into South Africa’s largest trade union.
- Played a leading role in negotiations that ended apartheid.
- Helped draft the 1996 Constitution.
- Founded Shanduka Group, one of South Africa’s most successful investment firms.
- Became South Africa’s fifth President in 2018.
- Donates part of his salary to the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Cyril Ramaphosa’s net worth is estimated at $450 million. Most of this comes from his business empire through Shanduka and his shares in major companies.
As President, he earns about R3.35 million per year (around $200,000). Remarkably, he donates half of his presidential salary to charity.
Legacy
Cyril Ramaphosa’s life is an example of how resilience and determination can change a person’s destiny. From growing up in Soweto under apartheid, to being imprisoned as a young activist, to fighting for miners’ rights, to building a business empire, and eventually leading South Africa as President, his journey mirrors the country’s own path of struggle and hope.
Whether remembered for his fight against apartheid, his business achievements, or his time as president, one fact remains clear: Cyril Ramaphosa has left a lasting impact on South Africa’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When and where was Cyril Ramaphosa born?
He was born on 17 November 1952 in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa.
What is Cyril Ramaphosa’s full name?
His full name is Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa.
Who are his parents?
His father was Samuel Ramaphosa, a policeman, and his mother was Erdmuth Ramaphosa, a homemaker.
How many times has Cyril Ramaphosa been married?
He has been married three times—to Hope Ramaphosa, Nomazizi Mtshotshisa, and currently to Dr. Tshepo Motsepe.
How many children does he have?
He is believed to have five children.
What degree does he hold?
He holds a B. Proc degree in law, obtained from the University of South Africa (UNISA) in 1981.
What role did he play in ending apartheid?
Ramaphosa was one of the chief negotiators in talks between the ANC and the apartheid government. He also helped draft South Africa’s 1996 Constitution.
What businesses is he associated with?
Through his Shanduka Group, he invested in companies such as MTN, McDonald’s SA, Coca-Cola, Standard Bank, and several mining ventures.
When did he become President of South Africa?
He became President on 15 February 2018, following Jacob Zuma’s resignation.
What is Cyril Ramaphosa’s net worth?
As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at around $450 million.