Are you curious about the richest politicians in South Africa and their net worth in 2025? You are not alone. Many South Africans want to know which political leaders have accumulated the most wealth, how much they are worth, and where their money comes from.

Politics in South Africa has always been tied to influence, business interests, and public service. Some politicians have built massive fortunes over the years through business ventures, investments, and, of course, their positions in government.

This article gives you a full breakdown of the richest politicians in South Africa, their estimated net worth, their businesses and assets, and how they made their money. If you want to understand who the wealthiest figures in South African politics are in 2025, keep reading — this guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Should You Care About the Richest Politicians in South Africa?

Knowing the richest politicians in South Africa is important for several reasons:

• It helps you understand the link between politics and wealth in the country.

• It gives insight into which industries and businesses contribute to their fortunes.

• It shows you how public figures manage to combine political influence with financial success.

• It can motivate you to explore opportunities in business and public service.

Below, we reveal the richest politicians in South Africa and how they built their wealth.

Top 10 Richest Politicians in South Africa and Their Net Worth (2025)

Here is the updated list of the- richest politicians in South Africa and their estimated net worth in 2025, ranked from highest to lowest.

1. Cyril Ramaphosa – Estimated Net Worth: $450 Million

Cyril Ramaphosa is the President of South Africa and one of the wealthiest politicians in the country. Long before becoming president, he was already a successful businessman with investments in mining, real estate, finance, and telecommunications.

What he owns:

• Shares in mining companies

• Expansive real estate across South Africa

• Stake in McDonald’s South Africa franchise

Pro Tip: Building diverse investments while maintaining a strong public reputation helped Ramaphosa achieve his wealth.

2. Tokyo Sexwale – Estimated Net Worth: $200 Million

Tokyo Sexwale is a businessman, former politician, and anti-apartheid activist. He served as Minister of Human Settlements and has investments in mining and energy sectors.

What he owns:

• Mining companies and energy ventures

• Luxury real estate

• International business interests

Pro Tip: Combining activism with entrepreneurship can create a strong foundation for both influence and wealth.

3. Matamela Gwede Mantashe – Estimated Net Worth: $150 Million

Gwede Mantashe is a senior politician, serving as Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy. He has also served as Secretary-General of the ANC.

What he owns:

• Investments in mining and energy

• Political influence that opens business opportunities

Pro Tip: Industry expertise and political connections often lead to lucrative opportunities.

4. Julius Malema – Estimated Net Worth: $120 Million

Julius Malema is the founder and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Despite controversies, he has built considerable wealth through investments and other undisclosed ventures.

What he owns:

• Luxury properties

• Investments in agriculture and other sectors

• High-end cars and art

Pro Tip: Staying relevant and influential in politics can create business and financial opportunities.

5. Pravin Gordhan – Estimated Net Worth: $110 Million

Pravin Gordhan is a senior politician and former Finance Minister. His wealth comes from long service in government and smart investments.

What he owns:

• Properties in prime locations

• Private investments

• Pension and public sector benefits

Pro Tip: A long and stable career in public service, coupled with prudent investments, pays off.

6. Baleka Mbete – Estimated Net Worth: $95 Million

Baleka Mbete is a former Speaker of the National Assembly and Deputy President of South Africa. She has investments in mining and other industries.

What she owns:

• Mining stakes

• Real estate

• Political influence that leads to business deals

Pro Tip: Women in politics can also build significant wealth through smart investments.

7. Jacob Zuma – Estimated Net Worth: $85 Million

Jacob Zuma, former President of South Africa, has amassed wealth despite legal troubles and controversies.

What he owns:

• Rural homesteads and properties

• Business connections in various industries

• Speaking and consulting engagements

Pro Tip: Even after leaving office, leveraging networks can maintain wealth.

8. Zweli Mkhize – Estimated Net Worth: $70 Million

Zweli Mkhize is a politician and medical doctor who served as Minister of Health. He has private medical investments alongside his political earnings.

What he owns:

• Private clinics and health-related businesses

• Properties and vehicles

• Pension benefits from public service

Pro Tip: Combining professional skills with politics increases earning potential.

9. Fikile Mbalula – Estimated Net Worth: $60 Million

Fikile Mbalula is the Minister of Transport and a prominent ANC figure. He earns from public service and personal investments.

What he owns:

• Properties in Johannesburg and Cape Town

• High-value cars

• Private investments

Pro Tip: Staying visible and engaged in politics ensures continued relevance and earnings.

10. Naledi Pandor – Estimated Net Worth: $50 Million

Naledi Pandor is the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. She has earned wealth through long-term service and international connections.

What she owns:

• Homes and properties

• Business interests linked to diplomacy

• Pension and state benefits

Pro Tip: International exposure and expertise can enhance a politician’s financial prospects.

How Do South African Politicians Make Their Money?

South African politicians earn money in several ways:

• Salaries and allowances from government positions

• Business ventures and company shares

• Speaking engagements and consulting

• Property investments

• Book deals and endorsements

Those who invest wisely and build businesses outside politics tend to become the wealthiest.

Summary: Richest Politicians in South Africa and Their Net Worth (2025)

Tips to Build Wealth Like South African Politicians

If you’re inspired by the richest politicians in South Africa, here are some lessons:

• Diversify your income through business, investments, and real estate.

• Build strong networks and maintain your reputation.

• Invest early and consistently in growing sectors.

• Stay educated and adapt to changing industries.

FAQs – Richest Politicians in South Africa and Their Net Worth (2025)

Q: Who is the richest politician in South Africa in 2025?
A: Cyril Ramaphosa, with an estimated net worth of $450 million.

Q: How do politicians in South Africa get rich?
A: Through salaries, investments, businesses, and leveraging their political influence.

Q: Is Julius Malema one of the richest politicians?
A: Yes, with an estimated net worth of $120 million in 2025.

Q: Do all politicians in South Africa have businesses?
A: Not all, but many of the wealthiest ones have businesses and investments outside politics.

Q: Can public service alone make a politician wealthy?
A: It contributes, but private investments and businesses usually make the biggest difference.

Final Thoughts

The richest politicians in South Africa in 2025 show how political influence, smart investments, and business ventures can build massive wealth. From Cyril Ramaphosa to Naledi Pandor, these leaders have combined public service with private enterprise to become some of the wealthiest figures in the country.

Their stories also remind us of the opportunities that exist at the intersection of business and politics — and that with the right strategy, anyone can aim for both influence and financial success.

If you are interested in building wealth while serving the public, start today by learning, networking, and investing wisely.