Tokyo Sexwale Biography, Age, Net Worth, Wife, Qualifications

Tokyo Sexwale Biography, Age, Net Worth, Wife, Qualifications

Tokyo Sexwale is a prominent South African businessman, politician, anti-apartheid activist, and former government minister. Known for his influential role in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, his significant contributions to the country’s development, and his ventures in business, Sexwale remains a respected and notable figure in both South African politics and the business world.

Biography:

• Full Name: Mosima Gabriel “Tokyo” Sexwale
• Date of Birth: March 5, 1953
• Place of Birth: Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Profession: Businessman, Politician, Former Anti-Apartheid Activist
• Political Affiliation: African National Congress (ANC)

Tokyo Sexwale earned his nickname “Tokyo” due to his interest in karate during his youth. Growing up in Soweto, he became involved in the anti-apartheid movement at a young age, joining the African National Congress (ANC) and later its armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. In 1977, he was arrested and sentenced to 18 years on Robben Island, where he was imprisoned alongside prominent figures, including Nelson Mandela. After his release in 1990, he played a critical role in South Africa’s transition to democracy.

Age:

As of 2024, Tokyo Sexwale is 71 years old, he was born in March 5, 1953.

Net Worth:

Tokyo Sexwale’s estimated net worth is around $4 million Rands. Much of his wealth comes from his ventures in business, primarily through his involvement in the mining, energy, and financial services industries. He co-founded Mvelaphanda Holdings, an investment company with interests in various sectors, including mining and media. His company became one of South Africa’s largest black-owned firms, and his investments have extended internationally, particularly in mining and energy.

Wife:

Tokyo Sexwale was married to Judy van Vuuren, whom he met after his release from prison. The couple married in 1993 and had two children together. However, after more than two decades together, Tokyo and Judy divorced in 2014.

Qualifications:

Tokyo Sexwale holds multiple academic qualifications:

• Diploma in Business Studies: Sexwale obtained a diploma after his release from prison, focusing on business management.
• Honorary Doctorates: He has been awarded honorary doctorates from several universities in South Africa for his contributions to the country’s socio-political and economic development.

Political and Business Career:

After South Africa’s transition to democracy, Tokyo Sexwale served as the Premier of Gauteng Province from 1994 to 1998. In this role, he focused on addressing inequality and promoting economic growth in the province. Later, he ventured fully into business, founding Mvelaphanda Holdings, where he led significant investments and partnerships that expanded his influence in the mining sector.

In 2009, he returned to government as Minister of Human Settlements in President Jacob Zuma’s cabinet, a position he held until 2013. As Minister, he worked to address the housing needs of South Africans, advocating for improved living conditions and increased access to affordable housing.

Legacy:

Tokyo Sexwale is celebrated for his contributions to South Africa’s liberation struggle and his work in business and public service. His commitment to socio-economic equality, paired with his business acumen, has made him an influential figure in post-apartheid South Africa. He continues to work in various capacities, including humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, and remains a respected voice in South African politics and business.