How Much is Jacob Zuma Worth in 2025? A Look at the Former President’s Wealth

Once hailed as a man of the people, former President Jacob Zuma now lives a life of relative luxury and lingering controversy. His legacy continues to stir debate across South Africa, but one thing is clear: Zuma is not short on wealth.

From Robben Island to Riches

Born in 1942, Zuma’s political journey began long before he stepped into the Union Buildings. At just 17, he joined the African National Congress and would later spend 10 years imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela.

For many South Africans, Zuma’s anti-apartheid struggle earned him lasting respect. Yet, his presidency, from 2009 to 2018, remains divisive. While he expanded social welfare programmes and joined global alliances like BRICS, his tenure was also marred by scandal and allegations of corruption that still echo through the political arena.

What Does Jacob Zuma Earn Today?

Though no longer active in frontline politics, Zuma still benefits from the financial privileges afforded to former heads of state.

Pension Payouts

Zuma receives a substantial monthly pension from the South African government, a benefit legally extended to all ex-presidents. Despite resigning under a cloud of controversy, his state-sponsored retirement pay continues uninterrupted.

Public Appearances

Zuma is frequently invited to public events, particularly within Zulu cultural circles or ANC-affiliated gatherings. He reportedly charges for many of these appearances, though he does not bill for formal government consultations.

Books, Biographies and Documentaries

Zuma remains a compelling subject for media and academics. He earns royalties from interviews, autobiographies, and documentaries about South Africa’s post-apartheid era and his own political life. These ongoing features contribute to his income in retirement.

Zuma’s Net Worth: Up to R378 Million?

In 2025, Zuma’s net worth is estimated at up to R378 million. That number has sparked public debate, considering his decades-long career in public service.

Critics question how a political salary, even a presidential one, could have resulted in such a fortune. Some point to state capture, the 1999 arms deal, and alleged misuse of government funds as contributing factors. Zuma, however, has long denied wrongdoing and maintains that his wealth is lawfully earned.

A Mansion That Made Headlines

Zuma’s sprawling Nkandla estate in KwaZulu-Natal became a national flashpoint in 2014 when it was revealed that over R300 million in taxpayer money had been spent on upgrades. These included a swimming pool (later dubbed a “fire pool”), an amphitheatre, and various security enhancements.

The revelations triggered widespread public anger, social media backlash, and even a ruling from the Constitutional Court, which found that Zuma had violated the Constitution. He was eventually ordered to repay some of the costs.

To this day, “Nkandla” remains a symbol of excess and political privilege in the South African psyche.

His Car Collection

While Zuma’s full garage remains private, reports indicate that he owns several high-end vehicles, including Range Rovers, Land Rovers, and a Ford Ranger. He has also been seen in more modest cars such as the Nissan Almera, suggesting a mix of status and utility.

Controversies That Won’t Go Away

Even after leaving office in 2018, Zuma’s name continues to appear in court headlines. As of July 2025, he is still involved in legal proceedings related to:

• The 1999 arms deal

• State capture allegations linked to the Gupta family

• Alleged misuse of state resources

He has repeatedly insisted that he is being unfairly targeted and continues to contest all charges.

Public Sentiment in 2025

Zuma’s name still trends on social media, and the nation remains divided. For some, he is a revolutionary who expanded access to education and social grants. For others, he is a symbol of the corruption and cronyism that defined a decade of political dysfunction.

Whatever the perspective, Zuma’s wealth and lifestyle remain a point of national curiosity and controversy.

Also read: Julius Malema’s Millions: What the EFF Leader Really Earns and Owns in 2025

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Source: Inquire Salary

Featured Image: CNN