Zweli Mkhize is a well-known South African politician and medical doctor whose career has spanned decades of public service. He has played a significant role in government, particularly in health and finance, while also holding top leadership positions within the African National Congress (ANC). Over the years, his influence in politics and business has contributed to his reputation as one of the prominent political figures in South Africa.
In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at Zweli Mkhize’s biography and net worth in dollars, tracing his journey from his early life to his rise in politics, his achievements, controversies, and financial status. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of who he is, what he stands for, and the wealth he has accumulated through his career.
Early Life and Background
Zwelini Lawrence Mkhize, commonly known as Zweli Mkhize, was born on 2 February 1956 in Willowfontein, a rural area near Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal. Raised in a modest family during the apartheid era, he experienced firsthand the challenges of inequality, poor access to healthcare, and limited educational opportunities. These experiences shaped his determination to pursue medicine and later play a role in transforming society.
Mkhize’s upbringing in rural KwaZulu-Natal instilled in him values of resilience, hard work, and community service, which would later define his medical and political career.
Education and Medical Career
Zweli Mkhize pursued his studies at the University of Natal (now University of KwaZulu-Natal), where he studied medicine. After completing his degree, he became a medical doctor, working at various hospitals, including Edendale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg.
As a doctor, he developed a deep understanding of South Africa’s health challenges, particularly in underserved rural areas. His medical career not only gave him professional credibility but also positioned him as a respected figure in his community. His transition from medicine to politics reflected his desire to influence change on a larger scale.
Entry into Politics
Mkhize’s political involvement began during his youth, where he became active in the liberation movement against apartheid. After democracy was established in 1994, he formally joined government structures under the ANC.
Provincial Roles
He served as a Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, where he used his medical expertise to improve healthcare systems in the province. Later, he became MEC for Finance and Economic Development, handling provincial budgets and fostering economic growth.
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal
In 2009, Mkhize was appointed Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, one of South Africa’s largest and most politically significant provinces. His tenure focused on economic development, service delivery, and addressing inequality.
National Leadership Roles
Mkhize transitioned to national politics, where he held positions such as:
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Treasurer-General of the ANC (2012–2017)
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Minister of Health (2019–2021)
As Minister of Health, he played a central role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa, overseeing vaccine rollouts and public health strategies.
Achievements and Contributions
Throughout his career, Zweli Mkhize has made several notable contributions:
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Healthcare Improvements: Expanded healthcare access in KwaZulu-Natal during his tenure as Health MEC.
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Economic Development: Promoted growth and investment in the province as MEC for Finance.
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Leadership in the ANC: Strengthened party structures as Treasurer-General.
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COVID-19 Response: Led the country’s health response during the early and most challenging phases of the pandemic.
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Community Development: Advocated for rural development and access to services for disadvantaged communities.
Controversies and Challenges
Mkhize’s career has not been without controversy. The most significant challenge he faced was during his tenure as Minister of Health, when he was linked to the Digital Vibes scandal, involving allegations of irregular contracts. The controversy led to his resignation in 2021, though he has maintained his innocence and continues to defend his reputation.
Despite this, he remains a strong political figure, with many supporters in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
Personal Life
Zweli Mkhize is married to Dr. May Mkhize, and they have children together. The couple shares a strong background in medicine and community service. Mkhize is known as a family-oriented person who values both his professional and personal responsibilities.
Net Worth in Dollars
As of recent estimates, Zweli Mkhize’s net worth is approximately $15 million. His wealth is drawn from:
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Salaries and benefits from government and ANC leadership roles
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Property investments in KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces
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Business interests in healthcare and other sectors
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Consultancy and advisory roles after leaving formal government positions
While his financial success has been questioned due to political controversies, his long career in both medicine and politics has undeniably contributed to his substantial net worth.
Summary Table of Zweli Mkhize’s Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zwelini Lawrence Mkhize |
| Date of Birth | 2 February 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Willowfontein, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal |
| Education | University of Natal (Medical Degree) |
| Profession | Medical Doctor, Politician |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Key Positions Held | MEC for Health, MEC for Finance, Premier of KZN, ANC Treasurer-General, Minister of Health |
| Notable Achievements | COVID-19 response, rural development, healthcare improvements |
| Estimated Net Worth | $15 Million |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Zweli Mkhize?
Zweli Mkhize is a South African politician and medical doctor who has served as Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, ANC Treasurer-General, and Minister of Health.
2. What is Zweli Mkhize’s net worth in dollars?
His estimated net worth is around $15 million.
3. Where was Zweli Mkhize born?
He was born in Willowfontein, near Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
4. What is his educational background?
He studied medicine at the University of Natal and worked as a medical doctor before entering politics.
5. What roles has Zweli Mkhize held in government?
He has served as MEC for Health, MEC for Finance, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, ANC Treasurer-General, and Minister of Health.
6. What achievements is he known for?
He is known for healthcare improvements in KZN, his economic development initiatives, and leading South Africa’s health response during COVID-19.
7. Has Zweli Mkhize faced controversies?
Yes, he was linked to the Digital Vibes scandal, which led to his resignation as Minister of Health in 2021.
8. Is Zweli Mkhize still active in politics?
Yes, despite controversies, he remains a key figure in South African politics and has ambitions for higher office.
9. Who is Zweli Mkhize married to?
He is married to Dr. May Mkhize, and they have a family together.
10. What is his profession apart from politics?
He is a qualified medical doctor, having worked in hospitals before his full-time political career.
Conclusion
Zweli Mkhize’s biography reflects a life of service, resilience, and controversy. From his humble beginnings in Willowfontein to becoming a medical doctor and later a high-ranking politician, his journey has been marked by both achievements and challenges.
As Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and Minister of Health, he influenced key areas of governance, including healthcare, economic development, and national crisis management. Despite controversies such as the Digital Vibes scandal, he remains a respected and influential figure in South African politics.
With an estimated net worth of $15 million, Mkhize is not only a prominent political leader but also one of the wealthier figures in the ANC. His legacy will continue to be debated, but his impact on South African politics and healthcare is undeniable.