Deputy Minister
MS. Tandi Mahambehlala :Deputy Minister of the Department of Human Settlements
Ms. Tandi Mahambehlala currently serves as the Deputy Minister of Human Settlement, where she is instrumental in the development and implementation of policies aimed at improving housing and human settlements across South Africa. Her role involves working closely with various stakeholders to ensure sustainable, equitable, and inclusive human settlement solutions.
Academic Qualifications
Ms. Mahambehlala has a robust educational background that has fortified her career in public service:
• Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) (2017)
• Honours Degree in Public Administration from UWC (2016).
• Advanced Diploma in Public Administration from UWC (2014).
• Certificates in:
o Audio-Visual Communications (1990)
o Community Profiling and Community Needs Assessment (2001)
o Programme Design and Presentation (2002)
Skills and Competencies
Ms. Mahambehlala possesses a diverse set of skills that enhance her effectiveness in her roles:
• Effective Communication: Strong written and oral communication skills crucial for her roles in government and community leadership.
• People Management: Proven ability to manage and lead teams effectively, ensuring collaborative and productive working environments.
• Policy Analysis and Development: Skilled in analyzing, developing, and implementing public policies that address key societal issues.
• Project Management: Extensive experience in managing large-scale projects, particularly those related to public administration and community development.
• Conflict Management: Expertise in resolving conflicts, particularly in stakeholder engagements and community interactions.
Career Overview
Ms. Mahambehlala’s career in public service is distinguished by her extensive experience and dedication to improving the lives of South Africans. Key positions include:
• Member of Parliament RSA (February 2018 – September 2022): Serving on the Portfolio Committees on International Relations and Cooperation and Chairing the Tourism Portfolio Committee. Her primary responsibilities included overseeing government departments and entities, ensuring lawmaking and monitoring policy implementation.
• Member of the Portfolio Committee on Energy (National Assembly Committee) (20 June 2014 – 30 March 2017): Contributed to oversight and legislative processes related to the energy sector in South Africa.
• Member of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development (National Assembly Committees) (20 June 2014 – 30 November 2016): Played a key role in shaping policies and initiatives aimed at fostering small business development and entrepreneurship.
• Deputy Minister of Communications (March 2017 – May 2018): Oversaw the country’s communications sector, including telecommunications and broadcasting.
• Senior Advisor: Stakeholder Relations at Eskom (April 2011 – February 2014): Managed stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution, playing a key role in the 49M campaign and other ministerial programs.
• Provincial Secretary of the ANCYL Western Cape (June 2008 – April 2011): Led youth development initiatives, organized significant events, and interacted with international youth organizations.
• Community Developer City of Cape Town (January 2005 – June 2008): Focused on service delivery, youth development, gender-based violence prevention, and poverty alleviation.
Early Leadership and Activism
Ms. Mahambehlala’s leadership journey began in her youth, and she has remained a committed advocate for community and youth development:
• Student Representative Council Member at Msobomvu High School (1988 - 1990).
• ANC Youth League Branch Secretary (2000 - 2004) and Deputy Chairperson of the ANCYL Dullah Omar Region (2004 - 2008).
• Chairperson of the ANCYL Dullah Omar Region (2008).
• Provincial Secretary of the ANCYL Western Cape (2008 - 2011).
• National Executive Committee Member of the ANC (Currently).
• ANCYL National Task Team Convener (2020) assuming duties of the ANCYL President.
Her leadership roles have consistently focused on building organizational capacity, managing significant events, and advocating for youth and community empowerment.
International and National Engagement
Ms. Mahambehlala has represented South Africa in various international forums, furthering her commitment to global youth development and public service:
• Youth Development Policy Conference, City of Cape Town (2000)
• National Heritage Council Civil Society Conference, Johannesburg (2005)
• International Union of Socialist Youth Festival, Zanka, Hungary (2009)
• Youth Congress of South African Students Conference (2009)
She has actively participated in parliamentary hearings and other processes that led to the establishment of the National Youth Development Agency, highlighting her commitment to youth empowerment.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
Ms. Tandi Mahambehlala is not only a distinguished public servant but also a compassionate leader deeply rooted in her community. Every year on her birthday, she makes it a priority to give back to the less fortunate. She visits underprivileged communities, offering food, blankets, and donations to those in need. Her commitment to community service extends beyond these special occasions, as she frequently provides assistance to students and supports various charitable initiatives throughout the year.
Her dedication to uplifting the community, especially in Cape Town where she resides, is well-known. She is an avid advocate for social upliftment, consistently participating in and organizing community outreach programs aimed at improving the lives of the marginalized. Her continuous and consistent efforts in these areas have solidified her reputation as a true community leader and giver, making a tangible difference in the lives of many
