Dr Murunwa Makwarela was a man of many layers—an academic, scientist, businessman, and politician whose life journey moved between laboratories, boardrooms, and public office. Known for his intellect and ambition, he became a familiar name in South African politics after his brief but highly publicised tenure as Mayor of Tshwane.
His story is one of achievement, controversy, and complexity, reminding many that public life often walks a thin line between success and scrutiny.
Dr Murunwa Makwarela Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr Murunwa Makwarela |
| Year of Birth | 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Cullinan, South Africa |
| Age | Early 50s |
| Tribe | Venda |
| Nationality | South African |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Profession | Politician, academic, genetic engineer |
| Known For | Former Mayor of Tshwane |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Status | Passed away (April 2024) |
Who Was Dr Murunwa Makwarela?
Dr Murunwa Makwarela was a South African politician, genetic engineer, academic, and entrepreneur. He gained national attention in 2023 when he served as the Mayor of Tshwane, albeit for a short period.
Before politics, he had already built a solid professional reputation in science, research management, environmental governance, and executive leadership. His career spanned universities, government institutions, international research environments, and private-sector enterprises.
Early Life and Cultural Background
Murunwa Makwarela was born in 1972 in Cullinan, just outside Pretoria, in what was then the Transvaal Province of South Africa. He later grew up in Tshitereke village in the former Venda bantustan, a background that deeply influenced his identity and worldview.
He belonged to the Venda tribe, and his upbringing was rooted in community values, discipline, and respect for education. From an early age, he showed curiosity about nature and science—an interest that would later define his academic path.
Age at the Time He Passed Away
Dr Murunwa Makwarela passed away in April 2024, in his early fifties. While reports varied slightly regarding his exact age, it is widely agreed that he was still relatively young, with many believing he had much more to contribute professionally and intellectually.
Educational Journey and Academic Excellence
Education was one of Dr Makwarela’s strongest pillars. He began his higher education at the University of Venda, where he graduated in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany and Zoology.
He then continued his studies at the University of Natal (Durban campus), earning:
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An Honours degree in Plant Biotechnology (1995)
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A Master of Science degree, focusing on eucalyptus cold tolerance and tissue culture (1997)
His academic journey culminated in a Doctorate degree from the University of the Witwatersrand, completed in 2006. During his doctoral studies, he conducted advanced research at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Institute in Missouri, United States, gaining valuable international exposure.
Career in Science and Research
Dr Makwarela began his professional career at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he worked as a researcher in cassava genetic engineering between 2000 and 2005.
He later joined the Agricultural Research Council, becoming the first Divisional Head of Gene Banks from 2005 to 2007. This role placed him at the center of important agricultural and biotechnology initiatives in South Africa.
Transition into Public Service and Executive Roles
In 2007, Dr Makwarela moved into municipal leadership when he joined the City of Tshwane as the Strategic Executive Director for Agriculture and Environmental Management, a position he held until 2012.
He later entered the private sector, serving as the Chief Executive Officer of TAHAL South Africa, the local branch of the international TAHAL Group, from 2012 to 2014.
His leadership extended across several boards, including:
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Chairperson of the Biofuel Business Incubator
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Non-executive director at the SA Essential Oil Business Incubator
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Board roles at the Johannesburg Development Agency
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Non-executive director at the Johannesburg Market
He was also a co-founder and chairperson of Maluti Green Med, a pharmaceutical company licensed for cannabis production in Lesotho.
Political Career and Mayoral Role
Dr Murunwa Makwarela entered formal politics through the Congress of the People (COPE), where he served as the party’s only councillor in the Tshwane municipality.
Before becoming mayor, he served as the Speaker of Council, working within a multi-party coalition led by the Democratic Alliance and other parties.
He was sworn in as Mayor of Tshwane on 28 February 2023. However, his tenure was short-lived due to administrative and legal challenges related to past insolvency matters. After a brief reinstatement, he resigned in March 2023, bringing his mayoral chapter to an abrupt end.
Religion and Personal Beliefs
Dr Murunwa Makwarela was a Christian. While he did not frequently speak publicly about his faith, those close to him described him as spiritually grounded, guided by moral conviction and personal discipline.
His belief system subtly influenced his approach to leadership, responsibility, and service.
Wife and Family Life
Details about Dr Makwarela’s wife and family were kept largely private. He chose not to place his personal life in the public spotlight, a decision that helped shield his loved ones from political and media pressure.
This privacy meant that, despite his public roles, his home life remained respectfully personal.
Net Worth
Dr Murunwa Makwarela’s exact net worth was not publicly disclosed. However, based on his long career in academia, executive leadership, consultancy, and board positions, his net worth was estimated to be comfortable but not excessive.
His wealth was largely tied to professional service, research leadership, and business ventures rather than political office.
Cause of Passing Away
Dr Murunwa Makwarela passed away on 23 April 2024 after a short illness. His passing away was confirmed by close associates and came as a surprise to many who knew him as energetic and forward-looking.
His family requested privacy during the period of mourning, and the public largely respected this wish.
Public Reaction and Reflection
News of his passing away triggered mixed emotions—sadness, reflection, and renewed discussion about his achievements and controversies. Colleagues remembered him as intelligent and driven, while others reflected on the pressures of public life.
Regardless of differing opinions, many agreed that his intellectual contributions and professional journey were significant.
Conclusion
Dr Murunwa Makwarela lived a life marked by ambition, intellect, and complexity. From village roots in Venda to international research institutions and metropolitan politics, his journey reflected both the promise and pressure of public service.
Though he passed away, his story remains a powerful reminder of how education, opportunity, and leadership can intersect—sometimes smoothly, sometimes turbulently, but always leaving a mark.
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