Jacob Zuma's first wife was Gertrude Khumalo.
Former President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma, has had a notable personal life, including several marriages. Among his spouses, Gertrude Khumalo holds the distinction of being his first wife, having married him in 1973.
Understanding Jacob Zuma's Marriages
Zuma's marital history is often discussed in the context of his public profile. His marriages, particularly their chronological order, provide insight into his personal life.
Jacob Zuma's Spouses by Marriage Year
To clearly identify his first wife and provide a comprehensive overview, the table below lists Jacob Zuma's known spouses in the order of their marriage:
| Spouse | Marriage Year | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Gertrude Khumalo | 1973 | Zuma's first wife |
| Kate Mantsho | 1976 | Died in 2000 |
| Nkosazana Dlamini | 1982 | Divorced in 1998 |
| Nompumelelo Ntuli | 2008 | |
| Thobeka Mabhija | 2010 | |
| Gloria Ngema | 2012 |
As evident from the table, Gertrude Khumalo's marriage in 1973 predates all other listed marriages, confirming her status as Jacob Zuma's first wife.
Other Political Affiliations
Beyond his personal life, Jacob Zuma has a long and influential career in politics. He was a prominent member of the African National Congress (ANC) from 1959 until 2024.
