We at MyNMB have taken the vanity search that we often conduct online using our names a tad further by asking AI to develop a biography from online sources of our current crop of political heavyweights.
Please note: the normal AI disclaimer which is something along the lines of; “take this info with a pinch of salt as it could contain errors”.
Please also note: By the time we complete this, the incumbents may have changed – SNAFU.
Babalwa Lobishe
Babalwa Lobishe is a prominent South African politician currently serving as the Executive Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A seasoned leader within the African National Congress (ANC), she has navigated various levels of government, from local council committees to the provincial legislature, before ascending to the highest office in the Gqeberha region.
Current Role: Executive Mayor
On October 31, 2024, Babalwa Lobishe was elected unopposed as the Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay. Her election was the result of a power-sharing agreement within an ANC-led coalition, where she swapped roles with her predecessor, Gary van Niekerk, who moved into the Deputy Mayor position.
As of late 2025, her administration is focused on the “All Hands on Deck” programme, a series of 85 key deliverables aimed at stabilizing the city’s administration, improving revenue collection, and accelerating service delivery. Under her leadership, the municipality has increasingly collaborated with the national government under Section 154 of the Constitution to address systemic governance and service challenges.
Political Career & Ascent
Lobishe’s political trajectory is marked by a deep involvement in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) region:
- Local Governance: She previously represented the ANC as a local councillor and served as a Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) under former Mayors Ben Fihla and Danny Jordaan, gaining early experience in economic development and tourism portfolios.
- Provincial Legislature (2019–2023): In 2019, she was elected to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature. During her tenure, she held several influential committee roles, including:
- Chairperson of Community Safety and Liaison.
- Member of the Public Accounts Committee (SCOPA).
- Member of the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) committee.
- Return to NMB: In May 2023, she resigned from the provincial legislature to return to local government, where she was immediately sworn in as Deputy Mayor before eventually taking the mayoral chain.
ANC Leadership
Within the African National Congress, Lobishe is a powerful regional figure. In December 2021, she was elected as the Regional Chairperson of the ANC in Nelson Mandela Bay, running unopposed after former chairperson Andile Lungisa withdrew. She is often characterized as a key ally of Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, although she has shown independent political movement within party leadership contests.
Key Initiatives & Vision
Lobishe is a vocal advocate for the “Blue Economy” and maritime development in the Eastern Cape. She has historically pushed for Nelson Mandela University to become a national center of excellence for maritime education, citing the strategic importance of the Port of Port Elizabeth and the Ngqurha deep-water port.
Her current mayoral priorities include:
- Administrative Stability: Resolving long-standing leadership crises, including the status of the City Manager.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Improving capital budget spending and ensuring creditors are paid within 30 days.
- Infrastructure: Procurement of essential service vehicles, such as refuse trucks, to restore basic municipal functions.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Previous Role | Deputy Mayor of NMB / Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL) |
| ANC Status | Regional Chairperson (NMB) |
| Focus Areas | Economic Development, Maritime Economy, Public Safety |
Babalwa Lobishe’s inauguration address – This video captures the moment Babalwa Lobishe was elected and her initial address to the council, outlining her vision for the city.
Gary van Niekerk
Gary van Niekerk is a South African politician and the current Deputy Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay. As the leader of the National Alliance (NA), formerly known as the Northern Alliance, he has become a pivotal and often controversial figure in the city’s complex coalition politics, having served as both the Speaker of the Council and the Executive Mayor.
Political Career & Leadership
Gary van Niekerk’s rise to prominence began with the formation of the Northern Alliance in 2020, a party established to represent the interests of residents in the northern areas of Gqeberha.
- Council Speaker (2021–2023): Following the 2021 local government elections, he was elected Speaker of the Nelson Mandela Bay Council. His tenure was marked by extreme political volatility, during which he survived multiple motions of no confidence and navigated shifting alliances between the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the African National Congress (ANC).
- Executive Mayor (May 2023 – Oct 2024): In May 2023, following the removal of Retief Odendaal (DA), Van Niekerk was elected Executive Mayor through a coalition agreement involving the ANC, EFF, and smaller parties.
- Deputy Executive Mayor (Nov 2024 – Present): As part of a strategic coalition reshuffle, Van Niekerk resigned as Mayor in October 2024 and transitioned into the role of Deputy Executive Mayor, swapping positions with Babalwa Lobishe.
Key Initiatives: “Operation Gatvol”
One of Van Niekerk’s most publicized efforts as Mayor was the launch of “Operation Gatvol” in late 2023. This ambitious road maintenance campaign aimed to repair thousands of potholes across the metro before the festive season. While the initiative was popular with residents frustrated by service delivery, it faced internal criticism and logistical challenges, with opposition parties questioning its long-term sustainability and funding.
Legal Challenges & Controversies
Van Niekerk’s political career has been shadowed by ongoing legal battles that have frequently made national headlines:
- Fraud Charges: He faces charges of cyberfraud and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA). The allegations date back to 2022 and involve legal bills exceeding R570,000 that were allegedly racked up without authorization during a period when his council seat was under dispute.
- Contempt of Court (2025): In October 2025, Van Niekerk was convicted of contempt of court and fined after missing a scheduled trial date to attend an international partnership conference in Braunschweig, Germany. He defended the trip as essential for securing foreign investment, though the court noted he failed to formally notify them of his absence.
- “The Truth” Series: In response to media coverage he deems unfair, Van Niekerk launched a social media series titled “The Truth,” where he provides his version of the events surrounding his criminal trial and council decisions.
Professional Timeline
| Period | Position / Role |
| Mar 2021 – Present | President, National Alliance (NA) |
| Nov 2021 – May 2023 | Speaker of the Council, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| May 2023 – Oct 2024 | Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Nov 2024 – Present | Deputy Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay |
Van Niekerk takes over NMB mayorship – This video provides a look at the political shift in 2023 when Gary van Niekerk was first elected as the Executive Mayor of the metro.
Eugene Johnson
Eugene Johnson is a seasoned South African politician and businesswoman currently serving as the Speaker of the Council for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A stalwart of the African National Congress (ANC), her career is defined by a deep-rooted history in labor unionism and her tenure as the first female Executive Mayor of the metro.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1963 in Arcadia, a northern township of Gqeberha, Johnson was one of five children. Her father was a factory worker and her mother was a unionist and lay preacher—a background that heavily influenced her entry into activism.
She attended Arcadia High School but left in 1980 to join the resistance movement against Apartheid. Notably, in a testament to her belief in lifelong learning, Johnson returned to complete her Matric certificate in 2020 at the age of 60. She also holds a certificate in local governance, law, and public administration from the University of Fort Hare.
Unionism and Professional Career
Before entering mainstream politics, Johnson was a formidable force in the South African labor movement:
- NAAWU/NUMSA: She began as a shop steward and rose to become the first female deputy president responsible for gender at the National Automobile and Allied Workers’ Union (NAAWU), which later merged into NUMSA.
- Corporate Governance: She spent over 15 years in finance and creditors management in the private sector (notably at Auto Plastics) and served as a founding member of the Institute of Retirement Funds of South Africa.
- Consultancy: Prior to her mayoral election, she worked as an expert consultant for the Ubutyebi Trust, focusing on urban development and human settlements.
Political Career and Mayoral Tenure
Johnson’s political journey within the ANC has spanned several decades, from branch chairperson to regional and provincial leadership roles.
- Executive Mayor (2021–2022): Following the 2021 local government elections, Johnson was elected as the Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, leading a complex minority coalition government. Her narrow victory (60 votes to 59) marked a significant shift in the metro’s leadership. However, she was ousted in September 2022 following a motion of no confidence.
- Speaker of the Council (2023–Present): In May 2023, following a reshuffle in the coalition power-sharing agreement, Johnson was elected as the Speaker of the Council.
Recent Context and Controversy
As Speaker, Johnson has been a central figure in the often-turbulent NMB council meetings. In late 2025, she faced significant criticism from opposition parties, particularly the DA, following her decision to cancel several motions of no confidence. Critics accused her of using her office to protect coalition allies, such as Deputy Mayor Gary van Niekerk, while her supporters maintained she was ensuring procedural stability within the council.
Personal Life
Eugene Johnson is a devout Christian and often cites her religious teachings as the foundation for her focus on justice for the poor and service to the vulnerable. She has three children and is a grandmother to five.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | Speaker of the Council, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Former Office | Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay (2021-2022) |
| Union History | Former Deputy President, NAAWU |
| Education | University of Fort Hare; Matric (Class of 2020) |
Nelson Mandela Bay Speaker Eugene Johnson – This video documents the moment the ANC and its coalition partners took control of the metro, leading to Eugene Johnson’s initial rise to the mayoral office.
Wandisile Jikeka
Wandisile Jikeka is a seasoned South African politician and a central figure in the governance of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A stalwart of the African National Congress (ANC), he currently serves as the Chief Whip of the Council, a role critical to maintaining caucus discipline and ensuring the smooth functioning of the city’s legislative processes within a complex coalition environment.
Current Role: Chief Whip of the Council
As of late 2025, Jikeka remains the Chief Whip of the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) Council. In this capacity, he acts as the “political engine” of the council, responsible for:
- Coalition Management: Ensuring that the ANC-led coalition (including the EFF, NA, and other partners) remains aligned during critical votes.
- Oversight: Monitoring the performance of councillors and ensuring that municipal audit findings and service delivery targets are addressed.
- Liaison: Serving as the primary link between the political leadership (Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Speaker Eugene Johnson) and the various party caucuses.
Political Background & ANC Leadership
Jikeka’s influence extends deep into the regional structures of the ANC. He has been a consistent presence in the Nelson Mandela Region for over a decade:
- Regional Treasurer (2012): Jikeka served as the Regional Treasurer of the ANC during a transformative period for the party in Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha).
- Regional Executive Committee (REC): He has held multiple terms as a member of the REC, the highest decision-making body for the ANC in the metro.
- 2025 Chairperson Contest: In November 2025, Jikeka contested for the position of ANC Regional Chairperson at the 7th Regional Conference. While he was unsuccessful—losing to the incumbent Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe—the contest highlighted his standing as a heavyweight within the party’s internal structures. He was subsequently re-elected to the Regional Executive Committee.
Local Government Experience
Before ascending to the office of Chief Whip, Jikeka gained extensive experience in the executive branch of local government:
- MMC for Corporate Services (2013): During the tenure of Mayor Ben Fihla and Speaker Maria Hermans, Jikeka served as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Corporate Services. This role involved managing the municipality’s human resources, legal services, and administrative infrastructure.
- Audit Advocacy: Jikeka has been a vocal proponent of administrative reform. Following several poor audit outcomes for the metro in the early 2020s, he publicly advocated for stricter accountability measures for municipal officials to ensure the region moved toward clean audits.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | Chief Whip of the Council, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Political Party | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Past Roles | Regional Treasurer; MMC for Corporate Services |
| Key Affiliation | ANC Regional Executive Committee (REC) |
| Leadership Style | Procedural, discipline-oriented, and coalition-focused |
Recent Context (2025)
Jikeka is currently a key part of the “All Hands on Deck” initiative alongside Mayor Lobishe. His focus for 2026 is expected to be on stabilizing the municipal administration and reclaiming the ANC’s outright majority in the upcoming local government elections by ensuring the council delivers on basic services.
Mkhuseli “Khusta” Jack
Mkhuseli “Khusta” Jack is a legendary South African anti-apartheid activist, a successful entrepreneur, and a key political leader in Nelson Mandela Bay. As of late 2025, he serves as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Corporate Services in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and is the National Chairperson of Build One South Africa (BOSA).
Early Life: From Farm Boy to Student Leader
Born on May 31, 1958, on a farm in Humansdorp, Eastern Cape, Mkhuseli’s early life was defined by the harsh realities of the apartheid-era farm system. After his family was evicted from their ancestral land, he moved to Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) to pursue an education—a goal he achieved despite systemic barriers that initially denied him a permit to attend school.
His political awakening began in the mid-1970s. Inspired by the Black Consciousness Movement and figures like Barney Pityana, he became a prominent student leader, serving as the chairman of the Student Christian Movement (SCM) and a founding member of the Congress of South African Students (COSAS).
The “Consumer Boycott” and the UDF
Jack is most famously remembered for his role in the 1980s as a primary architect of the Consumer Boycott Campaign.
- The Strategy: At just 27 years old, he served as the spokesperson for the Port Elizabeth Boycott Committee. He spearheaded the movement to boycott white-owned businesses to pressure the business community into demanding political reforms from the National Party government.
- The Impact: This non-violent economic pressure was highly effective, fundamentally destabilizing the local economy and gaining international attention.
- Sacrifice: For his activism, Jack endured years of detention without trial, torture, and severe banning orders. He spent a significant portion of the late 1980s in St Albans Prison.
Transition to Business and Education
After the unbanning of political parties in 1990, Jack notably declined a high-ranking position in Nelson Mandela’s new government, choosing instead to contribute to the country through the private sector.
- Academic Achievement: He was awarded a Helen Suzman scholarship to study in the UK, where he earned a BA Honours in Economics and Development Studies from Sussex University.
- Entrepreneurship: On his return, he became a successful businessman with interests in transport, fishing, and telecommunications. He has served on the boards of major South African companies, including Irvin & Johnson (I&J), Aberdare Cables, and Sun International.
- Author: In 2018, he published his widely acclaimed autobiography, To Survive and Succeed: From Farm Boy to Businessman.
Return to Politics (2021–Present)
Driven by a desire to address the service delivery crisis in his home city, Jack returned to active politics in 2021:
- AIM: He founded the Abantu Integrity Movement (AIM), a resident-led party focused on ethical governance.
- Deputy Mayor: In September 2022, he was elected Deputy Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay as part of a coalition government.
- BOSA & MMC Role: He later joined forces with Mmusi Maimane’s Build One South Africa (BOSA), becoming its National Chairperson. As of 2025, he holds the critical portfolio of MMC for Corporate Services in the Metro, where he is responsible for municipal human resources, administration, and legal services.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | MMC for Corporate Services, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| National Role | Chairperson, Build One South Africa (BOSA) |
| Historic Role | Spokesperson, 1980s Consumer Boycott Campaign |
| Education | BA Hon. Economics & Development (Sussex University) |
| Autobiography | To Survive and Succeed (2018) |
One of Jack’s most recent challenges as MMC, was where he navigated a multimillion-rand billing dispute to restore the city’s communication services.
Ziyanda Phakama Mnqokoyi
Ziyanda Phakama Mnqokoyi is a prominent South African political figure currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Electricity and Energy in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A representative of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), she is a central figure in the city’s ANC-led coalition government, tasked with managing the metro’s critical energy infrastructure and electrification projects.
Political Career & Role as MMC
Mnqokoyi rose through the ranks of the EFF in the Eastern Cape, appearing on the party’s provincial candidate list as early as the 2019 national elections. Her appointment as the MMC for Electricity and Energy places her at the helm of one of the most high-pressure portfolios in the Gqeberha region.
As of late 2025, her leadership is defined by the “All Hands on Deck” service delivery initiative. She is responsible for the oversight of the Electricity and Energy Directorate, which manages the power grid for Gqeberha, Kariega (Uitenhage), and Despatch, as well as the Coega Special Economic Zone.
Key Initiatives and Infrastructure Protection
Mnqokoyi’s tenure has been marked by a proactive approach to stabilizing the city’s power supply:
- Electrification of Informal Settlements: She has spearheaded major electrification projects, most notably the R2.8 million Gomora project in Kuyga (Ward 40). This initiative aims to provide safe, legal power to over 560 households, moving residents away from dangerous illegal connections and restoring dignity to informal communities.
- Anti-Vandalism Advocacy: A vocal critic of infrastructure sabotage, Mnqokoyi has frequently conducted oversight visits to substations damaged by “blatant criminality.” In 2025, she managed the fallout of several major substation collapses (such as in Khayelitsha, Kariega) and has pushed for increased security and swifter technical response times.
- Managing Sabotage Risks: In August 2025, following reports of attempted sabotage at the Chatty substation, she led the municipality’s effort to beef up security at high-risk sites. She is known for her hands-on approach, often commending municipal technical teams for their speed in repairing severed high-voltage cables under difficult conditions.
Labor and Administrative Challenges
In her role, Mnqokoyi has had to navigate complex labor relations within the Electricity and Energy Directorate. In 2025, she was involved in handling disputes concerning “scarce skills” allowances and disciplinary actions against municipal employees. Her position requires a delicate balance between managing union demands and ensuring that internal disputes do not lead to “sabotage” or widespread blackouts.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | MMC for Electricity and Energy, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Political Party | Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) |
| Focus Areas | Infrastructure Protection, Electrification, Energy Security |
| Known for | Fast-tracking informal settlement power projects; Anti-sabotage stance |
| Coalition Role | Senior EFF representative in the NMB Mayoral Committee |
Nelson Mandela Bay Residents Urged To Stop Vandalism – This video features the municipal leadership discussing the impact of infrastructure damage on the power grid, highlighting the environment in which Ziyanda Mnqokoyi manages her portfolio.
Khanya Ngqisha
Khanya Ngqisha is a South African politician and a prominent leader within the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). As of late 2025, he serves as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Budget and Treasury in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. He is a pivotal figure in the city’s governing coalition, responsible for the metro’s multi-billion rand budget during a period of intense financial scrutiny.
Political Career & Leadership
Ngqisha’s political ascent is closely tied to the growth of the EFF in the Eastern Cape. He has served as the EFF Regional Chairperson for the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) region, a position from which he has influenced the party’s strategy in one of South Africa’s most volatile metros.
- Early Activism: His early political activities often focused on labor and consumer rights. In 2018, he was notably involved in addressing allegations of worker exploitation at retail outlets in Gqeberha, demonstrating the EFF’s “ground-level” approach to community issues.
- Coalition Architect: Ngqisha has been a vocal advocate for “anti-DA” coalitions. He was instrumental in the negotiations that led to the ANC-EFF-NA coalition, famously stating that the EFF would participate in any arrangement that excludes the Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus.
Budget & Treasury Portfolio
In his role as MMC for Budget and Treasury, Ngqisha oversees the financial heart of the municipality. His tenure has coincided with significant fiscal challenges for Nelson Mandela Bay:
- The R30 Billion Crisis: In 2025, Ngqisha had to navigate a crisis involving R30.2 billion in unauthorized, irregular, fruitless, and wasteful (UIFW) expenditure—the highest in South Africa.
- Treasury Withholding Funds: In November 2025, the National Treasury threatened to withhold the city’s R546 million equitable share payment due to governance and financial management failures. Ngqisha led the municipality’s response, which eventually resulted in the funds being released in December 2025 under strict monitoring.
- Supply Chain Oversight: He has conducted high-profile oversight visits to the city’s Supply Chain Management offices to address procurement bottlenecks and improve the “turnaround time” for service delivery projects.
Recent Controversies
Ngqisha’s career has not been without significant legal and political challenges:
- Corruption Allegations (2024): In January 2024, the GOOD party opened two cases of fraud and corruption against Ngqisha. The allegations included an attempt to solicit a R1 million bribe from Hive Energy in exchange for project support at Coega, and the alleged abuse of EPWP (Expanded Public Works Programme) funds to pay students for political support.
- Procurement Failures: In late 2025, opposition parties criticized his leadership following the collapse of the R17.35 million “Safer City” project, citing bungled procurement processes within the Budget and Treasury directorate.
Professional Summary
| Category | Details |
| Current Office | MMC for Budget and Treasury, Nelson Mandela Bay |
| Political Party | Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) |
| Leadership Role | Former/Current Regional Chairperson (NMB) |
| Key Responsibility | Management of Metro Budget & Financial Oversight |
| Financial Focus | Reducing UIFW expenditure and securing National Treasury grants |
EFF’s Khanya Ngqisha on Coalition Governance – In this interview, Ngqisha discusses his personal journey into politics and the EFF’s strategy for governing within the complex Nelson Mandela Bay coalition.
Mcebisi Bass Kamana
Councillor Mcebisi “Bassie” Kamana is a South African politician currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Tourism, and Agriculture (EDTA) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A prominent figure in the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), Kamana plays a pivotal role in the city’s coalition government.
Political Career and Leadership
Kamana’s rise to the Mayoral Committee is a result of the strategic coalition agreements within Nelson Mandela Bay.
- Party Affiliation: He is a senior member of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC).
- Council Representation: He serves as a proportional representation (PR) councillor. In the 2019 elections, he was featured on the PAC’s provincial and regional lists for the Eastern Cape.
- Mayoral Committee Appointment: Following a leadership shift and coalition reshuffling in the metro, Kamana was appointed as the MMC for EDTA. His portfolio is critical, as it oversees the primary drivers of the local economy, including destination marketing and rural development.
Key Portfolio Priorities (EDTA)
In his capacity as the head of Economic Development, Tourism, and Agriculture, Councillor Kamana focuses on several key areas aimed at transforming the metro’s economic landscape:
- Agricultural Support: He is known for active field oversight, particularly visiting municipal commonages in areas like Kariega. He leads programs to support smallholder farmers, focusing on commercializing local agriculture to ensure food security and job creation.
- Tourism & Destination Marketing: Kamana oversees the Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO). His mission is to promote Gqeberha, Kariega, and Despatch as global travel destinations while ensuring the tourism sector contributes to inclusive growth and transformation.
- Youth Employment: Under his leadership, the directorate has reaffirmed a commitment to youth employment through tourism initiatives and sustainable economic development.
Strategic Oversight
Councillor Kamana is often cited for his “hands-on” approach to governance. He works closely with administrative heads, such as the Acting Executive Director of EDTA, to align municipal planning with the Integrated Development Plan (IDP).
Core Responsibilities:
- Fresh Produce Markets: Managing the infrastructure that supports the local food trade.
- Enterprise Development: Creating an enabling environment for SMEs to thrive.
- Special Projects: Overseeing strategic investments and urban agriculture initiatives that provide a “safety net” for the metro’s vulnerable populations.
NMBM Cllr Bassie Kamana led a series of impactful visits to municipal commonages This video provides a direct look at Councillor Kamana’s work on the ground, specifically showing his engagement with local farmers as part of his agricultural development mandate.
Thembinkosi Bethwell Mafana
Councillor Thembinkosi Bethwell Mafana is a South African politician serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A member of the African National Congress (ANC), he is a key figure in the city’s multi-party coalition government led by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe.
Political Career and Governance
Councillor Mafana’s role as the political head of Human Settlements places him at the center of one of the metro’s most challenging and critical service delivery portfolios.
- Party Affiliation: He is a veteran representative of the African National Congress (ANC). He was featured as a high-ranking candidate on the ANC’s Proportional Representation (PR) list during the 2021 Local Government Elections.
- Coalition Leadership: He was appointed to the Mayoral Committee as part of the ANC-led coalition that took office to stabilize the metro’s governance. He serves under the leadership of Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, who assumed office in late 2024.
- Oversight Role: As MMC, he chairs the Human Settlements Standing Committee, where he provides political direction and oversight to municipal officials and project managers regarding housing and land use.
Key Portfolio Priorities
Councillor Mafana’s tenure in the Human Settlements directorate is defined by a push for infrastructure development and the formalization of living spaces for the metro’s vulnerable residents.
1. Informal Settlement Upgrading
A primary focus for Mafana has been the Informal Settlement Upgrading Partnership Grant (ISUPG). He frequently leads oversight visits to project sites to ensure that the quality of work matches the funding spent. His goal is to move residents from temporary shelters into formalized, serviced sites with access to basic water and sanitation.
2. Fiscal Responsibility and Spending
In late 2024 and throughout 2025, Mafana has been vocal about the “All Hands on Deck” approach to municipal spending. He has pressured his department to ensure that human settlements grants are fully utilized before financial year-ends to prevent the national government from clawing back unspent funds.
3. Integrated Social Housing
Consistent with the city’s long-term plan, Mafana advocates for Social Housing projects that dismantle the “apartheid spatial legacy.” This involves identifying land in more affluent or central areas (like Fairview and Walmer) to build affordable rental units, bringing lower-income workers closer to economic hubs.
Public Engagement
Councillor Mafana is known for his direct engagement with residents during times of service delivery unrest. He often represents the municipality in community meetings to address concerns regarding:
- Housing Waiting Lists: Improving transparency in how RDP houses are allocated.
- Title Deeds: Accelerating the handover of title deeds to elderly residents to ensure security of tenure.
- Emergency Housing: Coordinating the city’s response to residents displaced by fires or flooding in informal settlements.
Buyelwa Nancy Mafaya
Councillor Buyelwa Nancy Mafaya is a prominent South African politician currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Infrastructure and Engineering in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM). Representing the African National Congress (ANC), she is a veteran leader within the council, having previously held one of the metro’s highest legislative offices.
Political Career and Leadership
Councillor Mafaya’s political trajectory in Nelson Mandela Bay is marked by her resilience and high-level leadership during periods of significant political volatility.
- Party Affiliation: She is a senior member of the African National Congress (ANC).
- Former Speaker of Council: Before her current role, Mafaya served as the Speaker of the NMBM Council (notably during the 2018–2020 period). Her tenure as Speaker was historic and often contentious, occurring during a time of intense coalition shifts. She was famously at the center of a legal and political battle in late 2020 regarding the convening of a special council meeting to elect a new mayor.
- Mayoral Committee Appointment: In the current ANC-led coalition government headed by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, Mafaya was entrusted with the Infrastructure and Engineering portfolio—one of the municipality’s most vital service delivery arms.
Infrastructure and Engineering Portfolio
As the MMC for Infrastructure and Engineering, Councillor Mafaya oversees the “backbone” of the city. Her directorate is responsible for maintaining and expanding the physical systems that keep Gqeberha, Kariega, and Despatch running.
Key Focus Areas (2025):
- Water Crisis and Security: One of her most pressing mandates has been managing the metro’s response to persistent drought and aging water infrastructure. This includes overseeing burst pipe repairs, water augmentation projects (like the Nooitgedagt scheme), and drought mitigation strategies.
- Electricity and Energy: Her portfolio includes the stability of the local power grid. She frequently provides updates on substation repairs and technical interventions to minimize the impact of infrastructure failure and vandalism on residents and businesses.
- Road Maintenance: Mafaya oversees the massive task of road resurfacing and pothole repairs across the metro, working to ensure that the city’s transport network remains viable for both residents and the critical automotive manufacturing sector.
- Budget Oversight: She is responsible for the effective spending of the Urban Settlement Development Grant (USDG) and other infrastructure grants, ensuring that funds are utilized for capital projects like sewer reticulation and formalizing services in newly developed areas.
Governance and Public Profile
Councillor Mafaya is known as a “seasoned legislative hand.” Her experience as a former Speaker gives her a deep understanding of municipal bylaws and the Integrated Development Plan (IDP).
In 2025, she has been a vocal advocate for an “all-hands-on-deck” approach to infrastructure, often leading technical teams on-site during major power outages or water supply disruptions. Her leadership style is focused on stabilizing the administration and ensuring that the Infrastructure and Engineering directorate meets its targets to restore public trust in municipal services.
Speaker Buyelwa Mafaya forcibly removed from council – This video documents a pivotal and high-tension moment in Councillor Mafaya’s political career during her time as Speaker of Council, illustrating the volatile environment of Nelson Mandela Bay’s coalition politics.
Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga
Councillor Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga (sometimes documented as Yolisa Padi) is a South African politician currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM). A representative of the African National Congress (ANC), she is a key member of the ANC-led coalition government under Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe.
Political Career and Experience
Councillor Pali-Jongilanga is a seasoned politician within the Nelson Mandela Bay council, having served in various high-pressure portfolios over the years.
- Party Affiliation: She is a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and serves as a proportional representation (PR) councillor.
- Previous Portfolios: Before her appointment to the Roads and Transport directorate, she served as the MMC for Public Health. During her tenure in Public Health, she was notably involved in environmental protection initiatives, such as the launch of the African Youth Waste Network, and advocated for the “oceans economy” by emphasizing the need for clean marine resources to boost tourism.
- Mayoral Committee Appointment: In the current administration led by Mayor Babalwa Lobishe (established in late 2024), Pali-Jongilanga was entrusted with the Roads and Transport portfolio. This move was part of a strategic effort by the ANC-led coalition to stabilize service delivery across the metro.
Roads and Transport Portfolio
In her capacity as the head of Roads and Transport, Councillor Pali-Jongilanga oversees the mobility and connectivity of the metro’s residents. Her directorate is responsible for maintaining the city’s vast road network and managing public transportation systems.
Key Priorities and Challenges (2025):
- Road Maintenance and Potholes: A major focus of her tenure has been the “All Hands on Deck” service delivery program, specifically targeting the massive backlog in pothole repairs and road resurfacing across Gqeberha, Kariega, and Despatch.
- Public Transport Turnaround: She is tasked with resolving the long-standing operational and contractual problems plaguing the Integrated Public Transport System (IPTS). Reviving the IPTS is a legislative and economic priority to provide affordable, reliable transport for the metro’s workforce.
- Stormwater Infrastructure: Her department manages the maintenance of stormwater drains, which is critical for preventing road flooding during the Eastern Cape’s heavy rain seasons.
- Capital Budget Spending: Like her colleagues in the Mayoral Committee, Pali-Jongilanga is under significant pressure to ensure that capital grants are spent effectively on infrastructure projects to avoid the “clawback” of funds by the National Treasury.
Leadership and Governance
Councillor Pali-Jongilanga is recognized for her focus on the intersection of infrastructure and the local economy. In her public addresses, she has often linked the “cleanliness and attractiveness” of the city—including its road infrastructure—to its reputation as a preferred holiday and investment destination.
In 2025, she has been active in oversight visits, monitoring the progress of road rehabilitation projects and engaging with communities regarding transport safety and accessibility. Her leadership is central to the metro’s goal of achieving administrative stability and improving “Basic Service Delivery” as outlined in the 2024/25 Performance Agreements.
NMBM Executive Mayor announces the People’s Budget – This video provides context on the 2025/26 municipal budget that funds the road and transport projects overseen by Councillor Pali-Jongilanga.
Thsonono Christopher Solomon Buyeye
Councillor Thsonono Christopher Solomon Buyeye is a veteran South African politician currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Health in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM). Representing the African Independent Congress (AIC), Buyeye is one of the metro’s most experienced leaders, having previously served as the city’s second-in-command and as its interim leader during the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Political Career and Leadership
Councillor Buyeye’s political career is defined by his role as a key “kingmaker” in Nelson Mandela Bay’s complex coalition politics.
- Party Affiliation: He is a prominent leader of the African Independent Congress (AIC).
- Deputy Executive Mayor (2018–2021): Buyeye was elected Deputy Executive Mayor in August 2018 as part of a multi-party coalition.
- Interim Executive Mayor (2019–2020): Following the removal of Mongameli Bobani in December 2019, Buyeye assumed the role of Interim Executive Mayor. He led the city for a full year, providing a bridge of stability during a period of intense political friction and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- MMC for Public Health: In the current ANC-led coalition administration under Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, he was appointed to lead the Public Health directorate, a portfolio that aligns with his experience managing the city’s emergency health responses.
Public Health Portfolio
As the MMC for Public Health, Councillor Buyeye oversees the environmental and wellness services that impact the daily lives of the metro’s 1.2 million residents.
Key Focus Areas (2025):
- Climate Resilience: Buyeye is a vocal advocate for the “Climate Resilient Nelson Mandela Bay” strategy. He focuses on how environmental health—such as air quality and waste management—directly impacts the public health of residents in industrial hubs like Motherwell and Coega.
- Environmental Health Services: His directorate manages critical “behind-the-scenes” health functions, including vector control (managing rodents and pests), monitoring water quality, and surveying imported goods at the Port of Gqeberha to prevent disease outbreaks.
- Waste Management Oversight: Public Health in the metro is closely linked to waste services. Buyeye often leads “cleaning and greening” campaigns, emphasizing that a clean city is a healthy city.
- Cemetery Management: His portfolio also includes the management of municipal cemeteries and crematoria, ensuring that these essential services are maintained with dignity and efficiency.
Governance and Legacy
Councillor Buyeye is often described as a pragmatic leader who prioritizes “service over politics.” Having served as the city’s acting head during the 2020 lockdowns, he possesses a deep institutional memory regarding the metro’s healthcare infrastructure and emergency protocols.
In 2025, he has focused on the “Integrated Development Plan (IDP)” targets for the health sector, ensuring that municipal clinics and environmental health teams are adequately funded to provide a safety net for the metro’s most vulnerable populations.
Luyanda Niebeck Lawu
Councillor Luyanda Niebeck Lawu is a South African politician serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety and Security in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM). Representing the African National Congress (ANC), Lawu is tasked with the political leadership of one of the metro’s most high-stakes directorates during a period of rising crime and technological transition.
Political Career and Governance
Councillor Lawu is a senior representative within the ANC caucus in Nelson Mandela Bay. His appointment to the Mayoral Committee in late 2024 was part of the executive realignment led by Mayor Babalwa Lobishe to strengthen the city’s response to lawlessness and infrastructure vandalism.
- Party Affiliation: Member of the African National Congress (ANC).
- Executive Role: As MMC for Safety and Security, he provides political oversight to the Metro Police, the Fire and Emergency Services, and the Disaster Management units.
- Coalition Context: Lawu operates within the ANC-led coalition government, working to align safety strategies with the “Safer City” national framework.
Safety and Security Portfolio
Councillor Lawu’s tenure in 2025 has been defined by a push to modernize the metro’s law enforcement capabilities through technology and strategic partnerships.
Key Focus Areas (2025):
- The “Safer City” Project: Lawu is the political champion for the “Safer City” initiative, which involves the mass rollout of CCTV cameras with AI-based threat detection and the revitalization of the city’s ShotSpotter acoustic gunshot detection systems.
- In late 2024, Lawu helped formalize a cooperative agreement between the NMBM and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to share resources and conduct joint weekly operations in crime hotspots.
- Equipment and Infrastructure: He has overseen the procurement of specialized vehicles and equipment for the Metro Police to enhance visibility. In late 2025, he defended the directorate’s request to carry over capital budgets to ensure that high-tech security equipment is sourced from specialized, vetted providers.
- Combatting Infrastructure Theft: A major priority for Lawu is the protection of municipal assets. He has advocated for intensified patrols to curb copper and cable theft, which frequently causes power and water outages across the metro.
Public Leadership and Oversight
Lawu is frequently in the public eye, often appearing at crime scenes or substation repairs to address residents’ concerns. He has been vocal about the “red tape” challenges in municipal procurement, pushing for faster supply-chain processes to get security technology onto the streets.
In his 2025 public statements, Lawu has emphasized that “safety is the foundation of economic growth,” linking the work of his directorate to the success of tourism and investment in Gqeberha and Kariega. He remains a key figure in the city’s attempt to restore the “Rule of Law” and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors.
NMB boosts safety as tourist numbers rise – This video provides insight into the safety strategies being implemented in Nelson Mandela Bay, which fall under the oversight and direction of Councillor Luyanda Lawu.
Bongekile Emelda Mankahla
Councillor Bongekile Emelda Mankahla (frequently referred to as Bongikiwe Mankahla) is a South African politician currently serving as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (SRAC) in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBM). Representing the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC), she is a key figure in the multi-party coalition government led by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe.
Political Career and Leadership
Councillor Mankahla’s role in the Mayoral Committee is a result of the strategic coalition formed to stabilize the Nelson Mandela Bay metro.
- Party Affiliation: She is a member of the Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC).
- Coalition Executive: She serves as a vital component of the ANC/EFF/PAC/AIC coalition government. As the sole PAC representative in the Mayoral Committee, she carries the political mandate of her party within the metro’s executive.
- Oversight: As MMC for SRAC, she oversees a directorate responsible for the “soul” of the city, focusing on social cohesion through sports and the promotion of the local creative economy.
Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Portfolio
Mankahla is recognized for her “grassroots” approach, often personally attending equipment handovers and cultural competitions to engage with community developers.
Key Focus Areas (2025):
- Support for Local Clubs: In early 2025, she oversaw a significant investment of R1.5 million to support over 30 sports clubs and non-profit organizations. This funding provided vital equipment and financial assistance to help nurture future sports stars from the metro’s disadvantaged areas.
- Mandela Bay Arts Festival (MBAF): She has been instrumental in the success of the annual arts festival. In February 2025, she presided over the Igwijo Competition at the Mendi Arts Centre, an event that celebrates traditional Xhosa acapella singing and community heritage.
- Youth Opportunity: A recurring theme in her leadership is “creating opportunities.” She emphasizes that funding for sports and arts is not just about the activities themselves, but about providing the resources necessary to help local talent thrive and foster positive social change.
- Infrastructure and Maintenance: Her portfolio includes the management of the metro’s libraries, swimming pools (such as the Newton Park Swimming Pool), and sports fields. She is responsible for ensuring that capital grants for these facilities are spent transparently to maximize community impact.
Public Advocacy
Councillor Mankahla is known for advocating for fair and transparent selection processes in municipal funding to prevent duplication and ensure that resources reach the intended grassroots recipients. She often uses public platforms to encourage clubs and artists to continue their work as “community developers,” citing their role in keeping youth engaged and active.
NMBM’s MMC for SRAC leads the Igwijo competition – This video shows Councillor Mankahla in action at the Mendi Arts Centre, demonstrating her hands-on involvement in the metro’s cultural heritage and arts programs.
