Cyril Ramaphosa: A Journey from Struggle to Statecraft

Cyril Ramaphosa’s life is a testament to resilience, transformation, and dedication. Born on November 17, 1952, in Soweto, Johannesburg, Ramaphosa grew up during a time of intense racial segregation and political repression in South Africa. His father, a retired policeman, and his mother, a homemaker, instilled in him the values of hard work and education, which would guide his path in life.

The Early Years: A Seed of Activism

Ramaphosa’s journey into activism began during his time at Tshilidzi Primary School and Sekano Ntoane High School, where he was exposed to the harsh realities of apartheid. This exposure ignited a fervent desire for justice and equality within him. He later pursued a degree in law at the University of the North (Turfloop), a hotbed for political activity against the apartheid regime.

At university, Ramaphosa joined the South African Students Organisation (SASO), a movement led by the charismatic Steve Biko, which aimed to uplift black consciousness and fight for the rights of black South Africans. His involvement with SASO marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to the struggle for liberation.

The Comrade: Leading from the Front

Ramaphosa’s activism grew bolder as he became involved with the Black People’s Convention (BPC) and the South African Students’ Movement (SASM). His leadership skills and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed, and he was elected as the first General Secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982. Under his leadership, NUM grew exponentially, becoming a powerful force in the fight against apartheid and for workers’ rights.

The 1980s were marked by numerous strikes and mass protests, with Ramaphosa often at the forefront, advocating for better wages and working conditions for miners. His strategic thinking and ability to mobilize people made him a key figure in the trade union movement and the broader anti-apartheid struggle.

The Negotiator: Crafting a New South Africa

As apartheid began to crumble in the early 1990s, Ramaphosa played a pivotal role in the negotiations that led to the end of the regime. As the head of the African National Congress (ANC) negotiation team, he worked tirelessly to ensure a peaceful transition to democracy. His efforts culminated in the historic 1994 elections, which saw Nelson Mandela elected as the first black president of South Africa.

The Businessman: Building a New Legacy

After the dawn of democracy, Ramaphosa transitioned from activism to business, a move that surprised many but was driven by a desire to help build a robust economy for the new South Africa. He founded Shanduka Group, an investment holding company with interests in various sectors, including mining, energy, real estate, banking, and telecommunications.

Ramaphosa’s business acumen saw Shanduka Group thrive, and he became one of South Africa’s wealthiest individuals. His success in business did not go unnoticed, earning him respect both locally and internationally. However, this phase of his life was not without controversy, as critics accused him of abandoning the struggle for personal gain.

Shanduka Group: A Business Empire

Shanduka Group, established in 2001, quickly grew into a diverse and influential conglomerate. Ramaphosa’s strategy centered on acquiring significant stakes in established companies and leveraging these investments to create a synergistic business portfolio. Shanduka’s interests spanned across multiple sectors, including:

Mining: Ramaphosa leveraged his deep understanding of the mining industry to secure profitable investments. Shanduka acquired stakes in companies like Lonmin and Glencore, establishing a strong presence in the sector.

Energy: Recognising the critical role of energy in economic development, Shanduka invested in renewable energy projects and coal mining, ensuring a balanced and forward-looking energy portfolio.

Real Estate: The group expanded into real estate, developing commercial and residential properties that contributed to urban development and job creation.

Banking and Financial Services: Shanduka’s acquisition of shares in Standard Bank demonstrated Ramaphosa’s strategic vision of integrating financial services into his business empire.

Telecommunications: Investing in companies like MTN, one of Africa’s largest telecom operators, showcased Ramaphosa’s foresight in the rapidly growing ICT sector.

Strategies and Lessons

Ramaphosa’s business strategies offer several valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders:

Diversification: Ramaphosa diversified Shanduka’s investments across multiple sectors, reducing risk and ensuring steady revenue streams. This approach highlights the importance of not putting all one’s eggs in one basket.

Strategic Partnerships: He formed strategic alliances and partnerships with established companies, enabling Shanduka to leverage the expertise and networks of these partners. This underscores the value of collaboration and networking in business growth.

Sustainable Development: Ramaphosa’s investments often focused on sustainable and socially responsible projects, reflecting his commitment to long-term development and community upliftment. This emphasizes the need for businesses to consider their impact on society and the environment.

Adaptability: Ramaphosa’s ability to transition from activism to business demonstrates the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Successful leaders are those who can evolve with changing circumstances and seize new opportunities.

Resilience and Vision: Throughout his career, Ramaphosa displayed resilience in the face of challenges and a clear vision for the future. These qualities are essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.

The Statesman: Returning to Serve

In 2012, Ramaphosa returned to the political arena, elected as Deputy President of the ANC and subsequently the country in 2014. His business experience was seen as an asset in addressing South Africa’s economic challenges. In 2018, Ramaphosa was elected as President of South Africa, succeeding Jacob Zuma amid significant political turmoil.

As president, Ramaphosa faced numerous challenges, including high unemployment rates, corruption, and economic stagnation. His tenure has been marked by efforts to root out corruption, rebuild state institutions, and attract investment to revitalize the economy. His approach, often described as cautious and consultative, has been both praised and criticized.

A Complex Legacy: Champion of the People or Co-opted Businessman?

Cyril Ramaphosa’s legacy is a complex one, characterized by significant achievements and formidable challenges. To many, he remains a hero of the struggle, a leader who fought tirelessly for freedom and equality. To others, his wealth and business dealings have cast a shadow over his revolutionary credentials.

Despite the controversies, Ramaphosa’s contributions to South Africa’s journey from apartheid to democracy are undeniable. His story is one of transformation, from a young activist in the streets of Soweto to a respected businessman and ultimately, the president of a democratic South Africa. Whether seen as a co-opted businessman or a champion of the people, Cyril Ramaphosa’s life is a testament to the enduring power of resilience and dedication to one’s country.