They say businessmen are no strangers to the presidency. Many business ventures are rooted in leadership skills that naturally extend their influence on national governance.
Donald Trump’s transition from business to the White House is a familiar example.
Is it contrary? Perhaps, but the milestones of President Cyril Ramaphosa are undeniably extraordinary.
He embodies all the superlatives in South Africa: one of the richest individuals, a sitting president, and a successful businessman with numerous companies under his name.
It makes anyone wonder: how does he manage to juggle it all?
These reflections invite us to delve deeper into his milestones. It allows us to absorb insights that move beyond stories and into financial capacities we may not realize we can tap into.
Who is Cyril Ramaphosa?
In 2025, Cyril Ramaphosa is 72 years old, born on November 17, 1952, in Soweto, South Africa. He lives in Johannesburg with his wife, Dr. Tshepo Motsepe, and is a father of five. Ramaphosa holds law degrees from the University of the North and the University of South Africa, and his net worth is estimated at $450 million.
He currently serves as the President of South Africa, a role he’s held since 2018. Before politics, he built a business empire through the Shanduka Group, with investments in mining, telecoms, and fast food. His journey from trade union leader to head of state reflects a complex blend of activism, entrepreneurship, and governance.
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An Overview Summary: Timeline of Ramaphosa’s Milestones
Below are key moments that shaped Cyril Ramaphosa’s path from union activism to leading South Africa’s coalition government:
1982: Union Leadership and Anti-Apartheid Advocacy
Ramaphosa founded the National Union of Mineworkers, which became a major force in labor rights and anti-apartheid resistance.
1994: Architect of South Africa’s Democratic Constitution
He led the ANC’s negotiation team and helped draft the country’s first democratic constitution.
2001–2014: Rise of a Business Empire
Ramaphosa built Shanduka Group into a multi-sector investment powerhouse, growing his wealth and influence in the private sector.
2018: Presidency and Operation Vulindlela
He became president and launched Operation Vulindlela to fast-track reforms in energy, logistics, and digital infrastructure.
2024: Coalition Government and Economic Vision
After the ANC lost its majority, Ramaphosa formed a unity government and pushed forward a trillion-rand infrastructure plan to boost growth.
2025: Infrastructure Boom and Economic Vision
Ramaphosa’s 2025 State of the Nation Address outlined a bold infrastructure plan. Over R940 billion is set to be invested in roads, ports, and energy.
He reaffirmed his goal of lifting GDP growth above 3% through public-private partnerships and digital transformation.
List of Companies Owned by President Cyril Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s business empire, built through strategic investments and executive leadership, spans mining, energy, telecoms, and fast food.
Below is a breakdown of the key companies that shaped his corporate legacy before returning to full-time politics.
| Company Name | Year Founded and Acquired | Type |
| Shanduka Group | 2001 | Local – Multiple sectors |
| MTN Group | Mid-2000s | International – Africa-wide telecom branches |
| Coca-Cola South Africa | 2000s | Local – Bottling operations |
| McDonald’s South Africa | 2011 | Local – Nationwide franchise |
| Seacom | 2000s | International – Submarine cable infrastructure |
| Standard Bank | 2000s | Local – Banking branches across South Africa |
| Alexander Forbes | 2000s | Local – Financial services |
| Helios Towers | 2000s | International – Telecom infrastructure |
| Gigajoule | 2000s | Local – Energy solutions |
| TBWA South Africa | 2000s | Local – Advertising and media |
| Macsteel | 2000s | Local – Steel trading and manufacturing |
| Liberty Group | 2000s | Local – Insurance and financial services |
| Scaw Metals Group | 2000s | Local – Industrial manufacturing |
| Lonmin Plc | Early 2010s | International – Mining operations |
| Pan African Resources Plc | 2000s | International – Mining and resources |
| Diepkloof Square | 2000s | Local – Retail property |
| Kaalfontein Corner | 2000s | Local – Retail property |
| Fever Tree Consulting | 2000s | Local – Business consulting |
| MPACT | 2000s | Local – Packaging and paper |
Ramaphosa launched Shanduka Group in 2001 and served as executive chairman, building a diverse portfolio in mining, telecoms, energy, and consumer goods.
He held leadership roles in firms like Alexander Forbes, Bidvest, and Lonmin, and supported black economic empowerment and education through philanthropic efforts.
His trading influence was most visible in companies like Macsteel, Standard Bank, and Pan African Resources, which placed him at the center of South Africa’s industrial and financial sectors.
Investments in Seacom and Gigajoule reflected his long-term focus on infrastructure and energy development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much money does Cyril Ramaphosa invest in South Africa?
Ramaphosa has invested hundreds of millions through Shanduka Group in sectors like mining, telecoms, and energy.
He also made additional capital in agriculture and real estate, including over 30 properties. His Ankole cattle farm alone generated over R2.7 million in a single auction.
How many wives does Cyril Ramaphosa have?
President Cyril Ramaphosa has been married to Dr. Tshepo Motsepe since 1996. He had two previous marriages before that, making a total of three wives in his lifetime.
What is Cyril Ramaphosa’s net worth?
As of 2025, Ramaphosa’s net worth is estimated between $450 million and $700 million, driven by strategic investments in MTN, McDonald’s South Africa, Standard Bank, and extensive property holdings.
Final Thoughts: Ramaphosa’s Business Legacy and Trading Influence
Cyril Ramaphosa’s rise from entrepreneur to president is marked by strategic investments in telecoms, mining, and finance, with Shanduka Group at the center of his business empire.
His influence in South Africa’s trading sector, especially through Macsteel and Standard Bank, reflects a legacy built on calculated growth and national impact.
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