South Africa’s new Government of National Unity (GNU) has started getting to work, with the new cabinet ministers showing varied experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After the ANC lost its majority in parliament, it formed a GNU with ten other parties. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After joining the GNU, the DA, IFP, PA, FF+, PAC, and GOOD received positions in the expanded cabinet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although many of these ministers are career politicians, many have dabbled in activities outside of the political sphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The most interesting story likely lies with new Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton Mckenzie, a convict turned whistleblower, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and founder of the Patriotic Alliance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
BusinessTech looked at some of the other interesting career paths that South Africa’s ministers held before their new roles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the ministers had rather obscure jobs that had little to do with their expertise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, despite having a PhD in Public Affairs and a civil engineering background, electricity and energy minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa was previously the CEO of the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of these ministers’ prior experience may have little to do with their current positions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For instance, Cooperate Governance Minister Velenkhosi Hlabisa and Police Minister Senzo Mchunu were teachers before entering the political sphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many ministers may have other political experiences, leadership qualities or qualifications that can help them with their new jobs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite being a teacher, Mchunu’s appointment has been widely welcomed, with many criticising his predecessor, Bheki Cele, who was a former Commissioner of the South African Police Service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n