Who Is Cyril Ramaphosa? Age, Biography and Wiki
Cyril Ramaphosa, born on November 17, 1952, is a prominent South African politician, businessman, and the President of South Africa since 2018. Known for his pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement and later in business, he has become one of the most influential figures in South Africa's political landscape. As of 2025, Cyril Ramaphosa is 72 years old and continues to shape the narrative of South African politics.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 17, 1952 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Soweto, South Africa |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | South Africa |
Popularity
Cyril Ramaphosa's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Cyril Ramaphosa stands at an impressive height of approximately 1.78 m (5 feet 10 inches). While his exact weight is not publicly disclosed, he maintains a healthy build that reflects his active lifestyle. His body stats, including chest and waist measurements, are not widely known, but he is often seen in formal attire that complements his stature as a president.
At the 2020 AU summit, Ramaphosa expressed support for the African Continental Free Trade Area and described it as a major driver for reigniting industrialization and paving the way for Africa's integration into the global market. Ramaphosa also stated that the free trade agreement will make Africa a player of considerable weight and scale in the global market as well.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Cyril Ramaphosa has been married to Tshepo Motsepe since 1996, and together they have five children. Tshepo is a prominent businesswoman and the sister of Dr. Patrice Motsepe, one of the wealthiest individuals in South Africa. While no reports indicate any changes in marital status, Cyril's focus has primarily been on his family and political duties.
Ramaphosa's primary opponent was Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who had the endorsement of Zuma, her ex-husband. On 18 December 2017, he was elected the President of the ANC at the party's 54th National Conference, defeating Dlamini-Zuma by 2,440 votes to 2,261.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Cyril Ramaphosa's net worth is estimated to be around $250 million, making him one of the wealthiest politicians in South Africa. His wealth stems from various investments and business ventures prior to and during his presidency, including ownership stakes in Shanduka Group. His presidential salary is reported to be approximately R3.1 million (around $200,000) per annum.
Ramaphosa's net worth was estimated at over R6.4 billion ($450 million) as of 2018. He has been criticised for his conduct and involvement in his business interests, including his harsh posture as a Lonmin director towards the Marikana miners' strike in the week ahead of the Marikana massacre.
Career, Business and Investments
Before entering politics, Cyril Ramaphosa had a successful career in business, serving in top positions in various companies, including the telecommunications giant MTN. Following his election as President, he initiated several economic reforms aimed at rejuvenating the South African economy. He is also recognized for his efforts in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and attracting foreign investments. His keen business acumen has played a crucial role in shaping his policies and strategies for South Africa.
Ramaphosa rose to national prominence as secretary general of South Africa's biggest and most powerful trade union, the National Union of Mineworkers. In 1991, he was elected ANC secretary general under ANC president Nelson Mandela and became the ANC's chief negotiator during the negotiations that ended apartheid.
He was elected chairperson of the Constitutional Assembly after the country's first fully democratic elections in 1994 and some observers believed that he was Mandela's preferred successor.
However, Ramaphosa resigned from politics in 1996 and became well known as a businessman, including as an owner of McDonald's South Africa, chair of the board for MTN, member of the board for Lonmin, and founder of the Shanduka Group.
Social Network
Cyril Ramaphosa maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. He uses these platforms to connect with the South African populace, share important updates about government initiatives, and engage in public dialogue surrounding issues affecting the nation. His social media handles often reflect his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
After his election as ANC Deputy President, Ramaphosa had begun the process of resigning from various business positions, and in 2014 he concluded the process, as required by the Executive Ethics Code.
This entailed his exit from Shanduka, from McDonald's South Africa, from platinum producer Lonmin, and from all other companies which might give rise to a conflict of interest, particularly in industries regulated by the government.
His other interests – including a share trading company, his livestock farms, his property interests, and a sports car company – were placed in a blind trust.
Parliament's 2014 Register of Members' Interests reflected over R76-million in company shares held by Ramaphosa (although that figure excluded shares held together with private individuals), as well as his ownership of 30 townhouses in Johannesburg and two apartments in Cape Town.
Education
Cyril Ramaphosa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law from the University of the North (now known as the University of Limpopo). He also obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of the Western Cape, further equipping him with the knowledge to navigate both the political and business arenas effectively.
He is the second of the three children to Erdmuth and retired policeman Samuel Ramaphosa. He attended Tshilidzi Primary School and Sekano Ntoane High School in Soweto. In 1971, he matriculated from Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa, Venda where he was elected head of the Student Christian Movement.
He subsequently registered to study law at the University of the North (Turfloop) in Limpopo Province in 1972.
