Andrek Panyaza Lesufi Biography: Premier, Age, Net Worth, Education, Career, Politics, Wife, Children, Height, Activism

Andrek Lesufi, popularly known as Panyaza Lesufi, is a South African politician and anti-apartheid activist who currently serves as the Premier of Gauteng.

Renowned for his outspoken leadership and reformist stance, Lesufi gained national prominence during his tenure as the MEC for Education in Gauteng, where he spearheaded major education reforms and technology-driven initiatives in public schools.

Profile

• Full Name: Andrek Lesufi
• Stage Name: Panyaza Lesufi
• Born: 4, September 1968
• Age: 56 years old
• Birthplace: Edenvale, South Africa
• Nationality: South African
• Occupation: Politician
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: Unknown
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Unknown
• Children: Unknown
• Relationship: Unknown
• Net Worth: $500,000

Early Life And Education

Andrek Lesufi was born on 4, September 1968 in Edenvale, South Africa, and later moved with his family to Tembisa due to apartheid-era forced removals. His parents’ names have not been publicly disclosed, and information about his siblings remains unknown.

He began his education at Tlamatlama Lower Primary School, continued at Tshepisa Higher Primary School, and matriculated from Boitumelong Senior Secondary School in Tembisa.

Lesufi furthered his studies at the University of Natal, where he earned a Bachelor’s and later a Master’s degree in Business Administration. He is of Black South African ethnicity, and his religious affiliation is not publicly known.

Career

Andrek Panyaza Lesufi began his career as a student activist in Tembisa, where he became involved with the Congress of South African Students (COSAS). His leadership extended to university politics, where he served as president of the Student Representative Council at the University of Natal.

After graduation, he worked in public service, including as spokesperson for the Department of Basic Education and in various strategic roles in local government. His early administrative work contributed to foundational institutions such as the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the Priority Crimes Unit (The HAWKS).

In May 2014, Lesufi was appointed as the Gauteng MEC for Education. Over the next eight years, he led transformative changes in the province’s education system, introducing smart classrooms, digital learning tools, and programs to improve infrastructure in underserved schools.

Briefly appointed MEC for Finance in 2019, he returned to the education portfolio within days due to widespread public support. He also served as acting MEC for Social Development during the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding his responsibilities to address urgent social needs.

In October 2022, Lesufi was sworn in as the Premier of Gauteng, following his election as ANC Gauteng Provincial Chairperson earlier that year. In his current role, he has launched the “Nasi iSpani” youth employment initiative, which has created tens of thousands of jobs for young people across the province.

As Premier, he continues to advocate for inclusive governance, education reform, and economic development, solidifying his reputation as a bold and pragmatic leader.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @gauteng_government

Personal Life

Andrek Panyaza Lesufi maintains a relatively private personal life, and public records do not disclose details about his spouse or children.

Known for his love of football and community involvement, Lesufi earned his nickname “Panyaza” from his youth football days, a name that has since become integral to his public identity. His personal values and experiences as a young activist under apartheid continue to inform his political mission and leadership style.

Net Worth

Andrek Panyaza Lesufi has an estimated net worth of approximately $500,000. His primary source of income is his career in public service, including his current role as Premier of Gauteng and previous positions as MEC for Education and other provincial government posts.