Tsepo Mhlongo is a well-known South African politician who has made significant contributions to the country’s political landscape. From his early life to his rise in politics, this article delves into his biography, detailing his education, political career, and estimated net worth.
Early Life and Education
Tsepo Mhlongo was born in Soweto, South Africa, and grew up with a strong sense of community and leadership. His early involvement in student leadership set the stage for his future in politics. Mhlongo’s educational journey reflects his commitment to public service and governance.
In 1996, he enrolled at the University of South Africa to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree. However, due to financial constraints, he was unable to complete the course. Undeterred, Mhlongo continued his education by obtaining an advanced diploma in ministerial training from the Faithways Bible Training Centre in 1997. His pursuit of knowledge led him to further studies, including an advanced certificate in municipal governance from the University of Johannesburg in 2007 and a certificate in finance for non-financial managers from Wits Business School in 2008. In 2016, he earned a certificate in governance and public leadership from the Wits School of Governance and is currently pursuing a postgraduate diploma in governance at the same institution.
Political Career
Early Political Involvement
Mhlongo’s political journey began in 1998 when he joined the Democratic Party structures in Soweto. With the formation of the Democratic Alliance (DA) in 2000, he became an active member and was appointed as a shadow councillor candidate for the Greater Johannesburg region, representing Orlando East. His dedication and leadership skills led to his election as a proportional representation (PR) councillor in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in the 2006 municipal elections.
Rise Within the Democratic Alliance
Throughout his political career, Mhlongo held various positions within the DA. He served on the party’s Johannesburg regional executive committee, the Gauteng provincial executive committee, and the Federal Council. His commitment to the party’s principles and his leadership abilities were recognized as he steadily rose within the DA ranks.
National Assembly and Ministerial Roles
In the 2014 national elections, Mhlongo was elected to the National Assembly of South Africa. He was appointed as the Shadow Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform under the leadership of Mmusi Maimane. In January 2017, he was promoted to the position of Shadow Minister of Sport and Recreation, and in June 2019, he became the Shadow Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
Expulsion from the Democratic Alliance
In December 2023, Mhlongo was expelled from the DA and lost his parliamentary membership. This marked a significant turning point in his political career.
Transition to ActionSA and BABSA
Following his expulsion from the DA, Mhlongo joined ActionSA in 2024, a political party that aims to address the challenges facing South Africa. In the same year, he was appointed as the Deputy President of the Black African Business and Social Alliance (BABSA), an organization focused on promoting economic empowerment and social development within the black African community.
Estimated Net Worth
As of 2025, Tsepo Mhlongo’s estimated net worth is approximately $487,000. This estimation reflects his earnings from his political career and other professional engagements. It’s important to note that public servants’ earnings are typically modest and primarily derived from their salaries and allowances associated with their governmental positions.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tsepo Winston Mhlongo |
| Date of Birth | Information not publicly available |
| Birthplace | Soweto, South Africa |
| Political Party | ActionSA (2024–present), Democratic Alliance (2000–2023), Democratic Party (1998–2000) |
| Positions Held | Deputy President of BABSA, Former Shadow Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Former Member of Parliament |
| Term in Legislature | May 2014 – December 2023 |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately $487,000 |
| Education | Advanced diploma in ministerial training, Advanced certificate in municipal governance, Certificate in finance for non-financial managers, Certificate in governance and public leadership, Postgraduate diploma in governance (currently pursuing) |
| Professional Background | Member of the Democratic Party and Democratic Alliance, Member of the National Assembly of South Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Tsepo Mhlongo’s current political affiliation?
Tsepo Mhlongo is currently affiliated with ActionSA, a political party in South Africa.
2. What positions has Tsepo Mhlongo held in the Democratic Alliance?
Mhlongo served as a councillor in the City of Johannesburg, a member of the DA’s Johannesburg regional executive committee, the Gauteng provincial executive committee, and the Federal Council. He also held ministerial roles, including Shadow Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Shadow Minister of Sport and Recreation, and Shadow Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.
3. When was Tsepo Mhlongo expelled from the Democratic Alliance?
Mhlongo was expelled from the DA in December 2023.
4. What is Tsepo Mhlongo’s estimated net worth?
As of 2025, Mhlongo’s estimated net worth is approximately $487,000.
5. What educational qualifications does Tsepo Mhlongo hold?
Mhlongo holds an advanced diploma in ministerial training, an advanced certificate in municipal governance, a certificate in finance for non-financial managers, a certificate in governance and public leadership, and is currently pursuing a postgraduate diploma in governance.
6. What is the Black African Business and Social Alliance (BABSA)?
BABSA is an organization focused on promoting economic empowerment and social development within the black African community. Mhlongo serves as the Deputy President of BABSA.
7. What led to Tsepo Mhlongo’s expulsion from the Democratic Alliance?
The specific reasons for Mhlongo’s expulsion from the DA have not been publicly disclosed.
8. Has Tsepo Mhlongo held any other political positions?
Prior to his expulsion from the DA, Mhlongo served as a Member of Parliament and held various ministerial roles within the party.
9. What is ActionSA’s political ideology?
ActionSA is a political party in South Africa that aims to address the challenges facing the country through effective governance and policy implementation.
10. How can I learn more about Tsepo Mhlongo’s political activities?
For updates on Tsepo Mhlongo’s political activities, you can follow his official social media profiles and the official websites of ActionSA and BABSA.
Conclusion
Tsepo Mhlongo’s journey in South African politics reflects his dedication to public service and his commitment to addressing the challenges facing the country. From his early involvement in student leadership to his roles in the Democratic Alliance and his current positions in ActionSA and BABSA, Mhlongo has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. His estimated net worth provides insight into his financial standing, though it’s important to note that public servants’ earnings are typically modest. Mhlongo’s educational background further underscores his commitment to continuous learning and development. As he continues to serve in various capacities, his contributions to South Africa’s political landscape remain significant.