When people talk about controversial yet influential figures in South African politics, Jacob Zuma is one of the names that always comes up. Known for his long career in the African National Congress (ANC), his tenure as the President of South Africa, and his legal and financial battles, Jacob Zuma has built a significant net worth over the years.
This article gives you a full breakdown of Jacob Zuma’s net worth in rands and dollars in 2025, his biography, businesses, assets, and how he accumulated his wealth.
If you have ever wondered how much Jacob Zuma is worth, what companies he is associated with, and the story behind his financial success and challenges, keep reading — this guide explains everything you need to know.
Who is Jacob Zuma? – Biography
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma is a South African politician, anti-apartheid veteran, and former President of the Republic of South Africa. He was born on 12 April 1942 in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal province.
Zuma’s life has been marked by resilience, political activism, and controversy. As a young man, he joined the ANC and its armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe, and spent ten years in prison on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela. After his release, he rose through the ranks of the ANC and became one of its most powerful figures.
His political career highlights include:
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President of South Africa (2009–2018)
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Deputy President of South Africa (1999–2005)
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Long-time ANC leader and strategist
Despite facing serious legal and corruption charges, Zuma has maintained a strong base of support, particularly in his home province.
How Did Jacob Zuma Make His Money?
Jacob Zuma’s wealth comes from a combination of his political career, state benefits, business dealings, and financial support from allies. Here are the main sources of his money:
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Salaries as Deputy President and President of South Africa.
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Pension and retirement benefits for former presidents.
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Support from friends, benefactors, and businesspeople.
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Investments in property and alleged stakes in private businesses.
His financial history has also been shaped by legal fees and court battles, which have consumed a substantial portion of his earnings.
Jacob Zuma Net Worth in 2025 – In Rands and Dollars
In 2025, Jacob Zuma’s net worth is estimated to be around:
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R280 million rands
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$15 million dollars
This estimate considers his known assets, property, benefits, and investments, minus his substantial legal costs.
How Jacob Zuma’s Net Worth is Calculated
Calculating Jacob Zuma’s net worth is complex because much of his financial life is not fully transparent. This estimate is based on:
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Presidential salary and pension payments.
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Market value of properties and landholdings, particularly in Nkandla.
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Support and donations from allies during and after his presidency.
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Alleged, though not fully proven, stakes in certain companies and business ventures.
While he is wealthy compared to ordinary South Africans, much of his net worth has been embroiled in controversy and legal scrutiny.
Jacob Zuma’s Businesses and Companies
Jacob Zuma is not known as a businessman in the traditional sense. However, over the years, he has been linked to various business interests and benefactors who supported him financially. These include:
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Interests in property and land development in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Alleged connections to companies that secured state contracts during his presidency.
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Beneficiary of funds channeled through allies in the construction and security industries.
Although none of these businesses were officially owned or managed by him, investigations have linked his name to some of them, notably during the state capture inquiry.
Jacob Zuma’s Assets
Jacob Zuma’s assets reflect both his political career and his financial controversies. Key assets include:
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The Nkandla homestead, a large estate in KwaZulu-Natal, which became infamous during his presidency because of upgrades funded by taxpayers.
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Other properties reportedly in Johannesburg and Durban.
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Vehicles and personal effects accumulated over decades.
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Pension and retirement accounts as a former president.
While his Nkandla property remains his most notable asset, it has also been the focus of legal and public disputes.
Jacob Zuma’s Philanthropy
Despite his legal and political challenges, Zuma has been involved in philanthropy, particularly in his home province:
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Supporting education initiatives in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
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Contributing to community development projects in Nkandla.
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Providing assistance to struggling families and traditional leaders in his region.
These activities have helped him maintain loyalty among his supporters.
Comparison: Jacob Zuma and Other South African Leaders
Compared to other South African politicians, Jacob Zuma’s net worth remains significant but smaller than those who focused more heavily on business. Below is a comparison table:
| Name | Estimated Net Worth (2025) |
|---|---|
| Cyril Ramaphosa | $450 million |
| Tokyo Sexwale | $200 million |
| Julius Malema | $3 million |
| Pravin Gordhan | $1.4 million |
| Baleka Mbete | $1.7 million |
| Jacob Zuma | $15 million |
His wealth is modest compared to billionaires but sizable relative to ordinary citizens.
Challenges Faced by Jacob Zuma
Zuma’s wealth and career have been deeply affected by several challenges:
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Legal fees from numerous corruption and fraud trials.
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Public backlash over misuse of state funds for Nkandla renovations.
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Allegations of state capture and links to controversial business families.
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Mounting debt and court-ordered repayments in some cases.
These issues have reduced his net worth over time but have not completely erased his financial standing.
Jacob Zuma’s Lifestyle
Jacob Zuma is known for his traditionalist lifestyle and connection to his cultural roots. He:
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Lives primarily in his Nkandla homestead.
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Maintains close ties to his extended family and community.
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Attends cultural and political events wearing traditional attire.
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Keeps a visible public profile despite his legal challenges.
His lifestyle combines elements of luxury with traditional rural living.
Career Lessons From Jacob Zuma
Jacob Zuma’s career and wealth offer several lessons:
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Political power can bring wealth but also scrutiny and accountability.
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Maintaining strong community ties can sustain support even in hard times.
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Legal and ethical challenges can erode a fortune quickly.
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Diversifying income beyond politics is critical for long-term financial stability.
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Transparency in business and politics is essential to preserve reputation.
Jacob Zuma Net Worth Summary Table (2025)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth (R) | R280 million |
| Estimated Net Worth ($) | $15 million |
| Primary Income Sources | Government salaries, pensions, support from allies |
| Major Assets | Nkandla homestead, other properties, vehicles |
| Philanthropy Areas | Education, community development |
| Lifestyle | Traditional and rural with elements of luxury |
Final Thoughts
Jacob Zuma remains one of the most well-known and controversial figures in South African politics. His net worth in rands and dollars in 2025 reflects both his decades of political influence and the financial toll of his legal and political struggles.
Despite setbacks, he has retained a loyal following and continues to play a role in South African public life. His story reminds us that wealth gained through politics comes with unique risks and responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is Jacob Zuma worth in 2025?
A: Around R280 million or $15 million.
Q: What businesses does Jacob Zuma own?
A: He does not directly own businesses but has been linked to property investments and alleged stakes in companies through allies.
Q: Is Jacob Zuma richer than Cyril Ramaphosa?
A: No. Ramaphosa is significantly wealthier, with an estimated net worth of $450 million.
Q: Where does Jacob Zuma live now?
A: He primarily lives at his Nkandla homestead in KwaZulu-Natal.
Q: How did Jacob Zuma make his money?
A: Through government salaries, pensions, support from allies, and alleged business interests.