Story
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo (born 2 March 1940) is a prominent politician and successful businesswoman who holds an important place in South African history as the country’s former First Lady.
As the beloved first wife of former South African President Jacob Zuma, whose successor as president is President Cyril Ramaphosa, Gertrude Sizakele, affectionately known as Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma to South Africans, served as First Lady during her husband’s tenure as the nation’s leader. Recognized as the “mother” of the nation, she displayed grace, compassion and strength throughout her time in this influential position.
Beyond her role as First Lady, Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo’s impact extended to politics and business. Her presence and influence in the political scene left an indelible mark, reflecting her dedication to the welfare and progress of the nation. As a successful businesswoman, she demonstrated her acumen and leadership, contributing to the economic development of South Africa.
Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma’s legacy extends far beyond her marriage and official title. Her resilience and commitment to her country have made her a respected figure, admired for her unwavering support for her husband’s presidency and her significant contributions to South African society.
Former First Lady of South Africa ‧ Wife of Jacob Zuma
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo |
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 Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
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| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| First and last name: | Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo |
| Stage Name: | President MaKhumalo Zuma |
| Born: | March 2, 1940 (age 84) |
| Place of birth: | KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality: | South Africa |
| Height: | 1.57 minutes |
| Parents: | Do not have |
| Siblings: | Do not have |
| Couple: | Jacob Zuma (married 1973) |
| Boyfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| Children: | Do not have |
| Job: | Former First Lady of South Africa |
| Net asset value: | 2 million dollars |
Early life
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo, born on 2 March 1940 in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has a story marked by personal trials and historical significance. While details about her parents, siblings, and education remain obscure, her life took a dramatic turn when she met Jacob Zuma in 1959.
However, their relationship soon hit a snag when Jacob Zuma became involved in political activities that led to his arrest and subsequent ten-year prison sentence in 1963. During this time, Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma and Jacob Zuma grew apart, enduring hardship and instability during a turbulent time in South Africa.
In 1973, after Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo was released, he and Khumalo reunited and decided to marry. Their journey was far from ordinary, however, as Jacob Zuma was later exiled in 1975, leaving her behind. Jacob Zuma’s path intertwined with another ANC refugee, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, whom he eventually married while in exile.
Following the polygamous tradition of the Zulu culture, Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo became Jacob Zuma’s first wife in the context of his subsequent marriage to Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. Unfortunately, they had no children together.
The specifics of her upbringing remain a mystery, but given the challenging circumstances and systemic discrimination faced by black South Africans during that era, it is likely that her childhood was marked by the hardships and oppressive treatment endured by many in the country.
Career
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo’s career is marked by her important role as former First Lady of South Africa and her dedication to charitable causes.
Although specific details about her professional career are limited, Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma’s prominence stems from her marriage to Jacob Zuma, former President of South Africa. As Jacob Zuma’s first wife, she served as the prestigious first lady during his presidency from 2009 to 2014. This role provided her with a platform to engage in various social, cultural and charitable initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering communities across South Africa.
In addition to her duties as first lady, Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo directed her efforts toward establishing and managing Sizakhele MaKhumalo Zuma FoundationThrough this fund, she focuses on supporting farmers and providing them with financial assistance. By redirecting resources to this important sector, she hopes to contribute to the development of agriculture and improve the livelihoods of individuals involved in agricultural activities.
Although Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma’s career has been largely associated with her role as first lady and philanthropic activities, her contributions to promoting social causes and supporting the agricultural sector demonstrate her commitment to positively impacting South Africa.
Personal life
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo was married to Jacob Zuma longer than any of his other five wives, as she was his first. Khumalo has endured more than most faithful spouses. She appeared to have reached her breaking point earlier this year when Jacob Zuma revealed that he would be taking a fifth wife, and his seventh overall. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma divorced him, while Kate Mantsho died in 2000.
The couple have no children. According to sources close to the Zuma family, it is alleged that Sizakele MaKhumalo Zuma has been designated as the “mother” to Zuma’s three children, who he fathered out of wedlock, in accordance with Zulu culture and tradition.
Jacob Zuma is the father of Duduzane Zuma, Mxolisi Zuma, Duduzile Zuma, Edward Zuma, Thuthukile Zuma, Gugulethu Zuma-Ncube, Msholozi Zuma, Thandekile Matina Zuma, Phumzile Zuma, Sinqumo Zuma, Nhlakanipho Vusi Zuma, Thandisiwe Zuma, Manqoba Kholwani Zuma, Sinqobile Zuma and Thuli Zuma.
Net asset value
Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo, also known as Gertrude Sizakele Khumalo, has an estimated net worth of $2 million. She has amassed this wealth through her successful career as a businesswoman, and her involvement in various charitable causes is private.
