Ms Thembisile Simelane is the current Minister of the Department of Human Settlements, having served in multiple ministerial roles as Minister of Justice & Constitutional Development (July 2024-December 2024) & during the 6th Administration of the Republic of South Africa as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (March 2023 - June 2024) and previously Deputy Minister Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2021 to 2023.

She is also the former President of the South African Local Government Association (2019-2021: SALGA). She served as Deputy President of SALGA before ascending to the position of President, being the only the 2nd female President of the organization since its formation. Ms Simelane is also the Former Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women in Local Government (2020-2022), She also serves as Co-President of United Cities of Local Government (UCLG). Ms Simelane was the Executive Mayor of Polokwane Local Municipality in the Limpopo Province (2014 – 2021). Prior to her appointment as Mayor, She served in various managerial positions in both public administration and in the private sector. Ms Simelane holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree, A Higher Diploma in Education as well as a BPhil (Political Studies) which she obtained from the University of Stellenbosch. 

In preparation for her numerous leadership roles, she also completed the Advanced Programme in Management at Wits Business School and obtained a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of Limpopo in 2022. Ms Simelane has a track record of impactful services across multiple ministerial roles and has championed initiatives that foster equitable access to essential government services. Ms Simelane's professional work experience spans over two decades. She is held in high regard for her innovative thinking, meticulous work ethic and exudes excellence overall.