Meet Angie Motshekga, South Africa's first female Acting President
In a historic moment for South Africa, Angie Motshekga, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, has been appointed as the Acting President of the Republic. This landmark decision was announced by the Presidency on Saturday, 17 August 2024, marking a milestone in the country’s political landscape.
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“President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms. Angie Motshekga to serve as Acting President today, Saturday, August 17, 2024,” the Presidency stated. Motshekga’s appointment comes as President Ramaphosa is away on a working visit to Harare, Zimbabwe, where he is attending the 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The summit, which began on Saturday, is centered on the theme: “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC.” President Ramaphosa’s participation in the summit underscores South Africa’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and economic development within the SADC bloc.
Angie Motshekga’s assumption of the role of Acting President, though temporary, is a momentous occasion in South Africa’s history. It reflects the increasing influence and presence of women in the country’s leadership roles. As the nation’s first female Acting President, Motshekga’s appointment represents a step forward in the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality in politics.
Her brief tenure as Acting President is not just a symbolic gesture; it highlights the progress South Africa has made in ensuring diverse representation at the highest levels of government. This development is expected to resonate across the country and the broader region, serving as an inspiration to women and girls who aspire to leadership roles.
About Angie Motshekga
Angie Motshekga is currently serving as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. Before this role, she held the position of Minister of Basic Education, where she made significant contributions to the country’s education system. Motshekga is also a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee and has served as the president of the ANC Women’s League.
Her academic credentials include a Master’s Degree from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), a Bachelor of Educational Science from Wits, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of the North. Motshekga’s career in education began at Orlando High School, where she taught from 1981 to 1983. She later lectured at the Soweto College of Education from 1983 to 1985 and at Wits University from 1985 to 1994.
Beyond her academic and teaching career, Motshekga has held several significant roles in government. She served as Director in the Office of the President from 1994 to 1997 and as the MEC for Social Services and Education in Gauteng. Her extensive experience in both education and government has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to lead in various capacities.
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As South Africa’s first female Acting President, Angie Motshekga’s appointment is a momentous achievement that highlights the country’s progress towards gender equality and diverse representation in leadership. Her leadership during this brief period will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the nation and serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.