Honourable Makoma Grace Makhurupetje, born in the 1970s , in the village of Ramotshinyadi, in the Greater Tzaneen Municipality has chased out a distinguished career both in politics and academics. Her journey from a young activist in the 1980s to her current role as Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature is marked by a steady commitment to public service and education.
Makhurupetje’s political activism began in her teenage years. At 16, while still a student at Khesethwane High School, she became involved in the student struggle for representation, and later, she joined the Merekome Youth Congress in her home village. Her commitment to the cause only strengthened following the unbanning of the ANC in 1990. She was among the early members of the ANC Tzaneen branch and played a pivotal role in establishing both the ANC Ramotshinyadi Branch and the ANC Women’s League Ramotshinyadi Branch.
Her academic achievements are equally impressive. Makhurupetje holds several advanced degrees, including a Master of Business Administration from Milpark Business School, a Master of Development from the University of Limpopo, and both a Bachelor of Administration (Honours) and a Bachelor of Administration from the University of Limpopo and University of South Africa, respectively. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Development Planning at the University of Limpopo.
Her professional experience spans both public and private sectors. Makhurupetje has served in various influential roles such as the Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Roads, and Infrastructure, and MEC for the Department of Transport and Community Safety, among others. Her leadership extends to roles like Chief Director at the Department of Cooperative Governance and Director at the Department of Finance and Economic Development.
In addition to her work in public service, Makhurupetje’s political engagement has been extensive. She has held numerous positions within the ANC, including Deputy Secretary and Chairperson of the ANC Ramotshinyadi Branch, Secretary of the ANC Women’s League Letaba Subregion, and Regional Chairperson of the ANC Women’s League in multiple regions. She has also served on the ANC Limpopo Province Provincial Executive Committee and the National Executive Council of both the ANC Women’s League and the Progressive Women’s Movement of South Africa. She’s the former Councillor and Speaker for the Greater Tzaneen Municipality.
Makhurupetje’s dedication to both her community and her country exemplifies a lifelong commitment to improving the lives of South Africans through both political and educational avenues. Her career reflects a blend of activism, leadership, and scholarship, positioning her as a key figure in shaping South Africa’s future.
