David Mabuza's bio: Age, children, wife, education, current office, house, cars and net worth
David Mabuza's biography highlights his journey from Premier of Mpumalanga to Deputy President of South Africa and the ANC. He passed away in 2025, but his legacy lives on. This brief profile explores his family, career, education, and assets. It also sheds light on the controversies that shaped his public image.
Source: Getty Images
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- David Mabuza rose from a teacher and activist to become South Africa’s Deputy President and a key figure in the ANC.
- His life was marked by political achievements, a powerful network, and persistent controversies.
- David Mabuza's bio reveals a complex legacy that continues to spark public interest after his death.
Profile summary
| Full name | David Dabede Mabuza |
| Nicknames | Didi Mabuza/ DD Mabuza |
| Date of birth | 25 August 1960 |
| Age at death | 64 years old |
| Place of birth | Brondal, Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Ethnicity | African |
| Nationality | South African |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Brown |
| Relationship status | Married |
| Wife | Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi |
| Children | 2 |
| @DDMabuzaDP | |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Famous for | Being the Deputy President of South Africa and Mpumalanga 4th Premier's |
David Mabuza's biography
David Dabede Mabuza was a South African politician and educator. He started his career as a teacher and later became a school principal. Mabuza held a National Teacher’s Certificate and a BA degree in Psychology from UNISA. He was deeply involved in education unions and Black Consciousness movements during the 1980s.
He entered politics after 1994 and rose steadily through the ranks. He served as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC) in Mpumalanga before becoming Premier in 2009. In 2017, the South African leader became Deputy President of the ANC. A year later, he was appointed Deputy President of South Africa under Cyril Ramaphosa. He served in this role until 2023. Mabuza was known for his calm leadership style and ability to unite factions within the party.
Where does DD Mabuza come from?
David Mabuza was born in Phola, a small township in Mpumalanga province. He grew up in a rural area surrounded by farms and mining towns. His early life was shaped by poverty and the struggle against apartheid.
He later became active in local youth and teacher movements within the province. Mpumalanga remained his political base throughout his career.
Source: Original
What language does Mabuza speak?
David Mabuza was a native isiZulu speaker. He also understood and spoke isiSwati, which is widely used in Mpumalanga. In addition, he was fluent in English, which he used in official duties and public speeches. His language skills helped him connect with diverse communities across South Africa.
How did David Mabuza pass away?
David passed away on 3 July 2025 at the age of 64. He died in a private hospital in Sandton after a short illness. According to official statements, he experienced severe breathing difficulties shortly before his death.
The Presidency and the ANC confirmed the news, prompting tributes from across the country. His death quickly became a major focus in David Mabuza’s latest news coverage.
Details surrounding David Mabuza’s illness remain limited. His family described it as a short and sudden illness related to breathing complications. While he had taken a step back from public life months before his death, no specific diagnosis was made public. His health had been a concern in previous years, but the exact cause of his final illness has not been officially confirmed.
What are the qualifications of David Mabuza?
David Mabuza held a National Teacher’s Certificate from Mgwenya College of Education, earned in 1985. He then obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Africa (UNISA) in 1989.
He trained as a mathematics teacher and taught at the KaNgwane Department of Education from 1986 to 1988. From 1989 to 1993, he served as principal of Lungisani Secondary School in Mpumalanga.
Career
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A look at David Mabuza's bio shows he began as a teacher and activist. He first served as Secretary of AZASO in 1984–85. Then he chaired NEUSA (1986–88), served as FEP treasurer (1986–90), and coordinated NECC (1987–89).
He taught mathematics from 1986 to 1988 in KaNgwane and became principal at Lungisani Secondary School (1989–93). He chaired SADTU from 1988 to 1991.
With Mathews Phosa's support, Mabuza joined the provincial government in 1994. He served as MEC for Education (1994–98). Later, he became MEC for Housing (1999–2001), then MEC for Roads and Transport (2007–08), and MEC for Agriculture and Land Administration (2008–09) in Mpumalanga.
He was a long-serving ANC provincial leader and joined the ANC’s NEC in 2007. In May 2009, the politician became Premier of Mpumalanga. He held that role until February 2018. Then he was sworn in as Deputy President of South Africa under Cyril Ramaphosa, serving from February 2018 until February 2023. Mabuza also served as Deputy President of the ANC from December 2017 to December 2022.
David Mabuza's previous offices
- MEC for Education, Mpumalanga (1994–1998)
- MEC for Housing, Mpumalanga (1999–2001)
- MEC for Roads & Transport, Mpumalanga (2007–2008)
- MEC for Agriculture & Land Administration, Mpumalanga (2008–2009)
- Premier of Mpumalanga (May 2009–Feb 2018)
- Deputy President of the African National Congress (Dec 2017–Dec 2022)
- Deputy President of South Africa (27 Feb 2018–28 Feb 2023)
Controversies
David Mabuza faced serious corruption claims during his time as Premier of Mpumalanga. In 2018, The New York Times reported on alleged misuse of public funds. The article focused on inflated contracts for school infrastructure.
It claimed millions were lost while service delivery declined. Mabuza denied the allegations. He called them false and politically motivated. No formal charges were ever brought against him.
In 2009, a large sum of money was reportedly stolen from his home. Some reports claimed up to R14 million went missing. Police only recorded a much smaller amount. The incident raised public suspicion, but no one was held accountable.
Mabuza was linked to several acts of political violence. One of the most serious was the murder of Jimmy Mohlala in 2009. Mohlala had exposed corruption related to stadium construction. He was killed shortly after.
There were also claims from Mabuza's former butler. He said Mabuza admitted involvement in the deaths of Jimmy Mohlala and James Nkambule. The butler is now under police protection. Nkambule had accused Mabuza of corruption before his death.
Source: Getty Images
Some political opponents described Mabuza as dangerous. They pointed to the high number of suspicious deaths in Mpumalanga. Most of the victims had spoken out against corruption. Despite the claims, Mabuza always denied any wrongdoing.
The South African politician said the accusations were part of a political smear campaign. None of the cases led to formal charges.
Who is the wife of Didi Mabuza?
David Mabuza was married to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi. She is known for her work in real estate in Mpumalanga. The couple got married in 2003 and remained together until his passing in 2025. Mabuza was previously married to Ruth Funi Silinda, but they later divorced.
David Mabuza’s children
Mabuza had two children. His son is Mxolisi Mabuza, and his daughter is Angela Mabuza. Both children gave emotional tributes at his funeral, thanking him for his love, values, and guidance.
David Mabuza’s family remained mostly private throughout his political career. He was described as a devoted father and husband. His wife and children often stayed out of the spotlight. However, they were present and visible at major public events such as his funeral and memorial service.
David Mabuza’s daughter, Angela, spoke warmly about him during the memorial. She called him a rare man who loved deeply and supported their dreams. She said he gave them strength and wisdom to face life with courage. She paid tribute to him, saying,
Papa, it's now your time to rest. Finally, you get your rest and have the peace you deserve. We love you,
David Mabuza's net worth
Mabuza’s exact net worth is unknown. However, as Deputy President, he earned about R3.3 million annually. His salary later increased to R3.6 million and R3.8 million in the following years.
These figures only reflect his official income. His total wealth remains unverified and may include other undisclosed assets.
House
The late politician owned a farmhouse in Barberton, Mpumalanga. It served as his home and a space for gatherings. After his passing, ANC members and local leaders paid their respects there. The property was deeply tied to his legacy in the province.
Cars
While Premier of Mpumalanga, his office spent roughly R5 million on three luxury vehicles. The fleet included an Audi A8, a BMW X5, and a Range Rover Vogue. These vehicles caused public debate due to procurement rules and budget concerns.
Source: Getty Images
The Public Protector later cleared Mabuza of direct wrongdoing, finding that lower‑level officials handled the purchases improperly.
Who was the deputy president before Paul Mashatile?
Before Paul Mashatile, the Deputy President of South Africa, was David Mabuza, who held the position under President Cyril Ramaphosa. Mabuza served from 27 February 2018 until his resignation on 28 February 2023
Who is the new deputy president of South Africa?
The current Deputy President of South Africa is Paul Shipokosa Mashatile. He assumed office on 7 March 2023, taking over from David Mabuza.
Who was the deputy president when Zuma was president?
During Jacob Zuma’s presidency, Kgalema Motlanthe served as Deputy President from 2009 to 2014, followed by Cyril Ramaphosa from 2014 until 2018, when Ramaphosa succeeded Zuma as President of South Africa.
Who was the deputy president of Nelson Mandela?
The Deputy President of Nelson Mandela was Thabo Mbeki. He served in this role from 1994 to 1999 during Mandela’s presidency. Mbeki later succeeded Mandela as President in 1999.
David Mabuza's bio reflects a life of political influence, public service, and controversy. From his early teaching days to high office, he remained a key figure in South African politics. His legacy, personal life, and career continue to draw interest long after his passing.
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