South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has been named the best-performing cabinet minister in the 2025 rankings by the F.W. de Klerk Foundation, highlighting his leadership in stabilising the country’s energy sector.
The recognition marks a significant turning point in South Africa’s democratic journey and stands as a demonstration of focused leadership, decisive action, and sustained commitment to restoring energy security.
Among cabinet ministers assessed, Dr. Ramokgopa emerged as the top performer, scoring 85 per cent. He was followed by Dean Macpherson, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, and Leon Schreiber, Minister of Home Affairs, who each scored 80 per cent.
In a statement celebrating the recognition, South Africa’s Department of Electricity and Energy noted that under Dr. Ramokgopa’s leadership, the country has transitioned from a prolonged period of electricity instability to one of improved reliability, resilience, and renewed public confidence.
The Department stated that the resolution of load shedding reflects the Minister’s ability to provide clear political direction, strengthen coordination across the electricity value chain, and drive the effective implementation of critical reforms within Eskom and the broader energy sector.
It added that the achievement also demonstrates the success of government’s whole-of-state approach, working closely with public entities, municipalities, the private sector, labour unions, and communities.
“This achievement has unlocked economic recovery, restored investor confidence, protected jobs, and improved the quality of life for millions of South Africans. A reliable electricity supply has strengthened service delivery to households, schools, clinics, and businesses, while laying a solid foundation for inclusive growth, industrialisation, and a just energy transition,” the Department concluded.
Meanwhile, his Deputy, Samantha Graham-Maré, has also been ranked among the top-performing Deputy Ministers, scoring 70 per cent and placing sixth in the overall ranking.
The recognition reflects Deputy Minister Graham-Maré’s dedicated service, principled leadership, and effective contribution to the work of the Seventh Administration, particularly within the electricity and energy portfolio. Her ranking underscores a strong commitment to performance, accountability, and results-driven governance at a time when a reliable electricity supply is critical to economic recovery and social stability.
The Department commended the Deputy Minister for her role in supporting the stabilisation and reform of the electricity sector, strengthening oversight, engaging constructively with stakeholders, and advancing practical solutions that place the needs of South Africans at the centre of energy delivery.
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