A new political movement, Mayibuye Afrika led by Floyd Shivambu, is gaining traction in South Africa. Its growth was significantly boosted by the recent defection of seasoned politician Mokotedi from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party on August 22, 2025.
The move highlights a growing sense of disillusionment with established political parties. Shivambu, a former MK Party secretary-general, has positioned Mayibuye Afrika as a project for “qualitative and quantitative” growth, focused on tackling the country’s most pressing issues.
The movement’s platform directly addresses South Africa’s severe socioeconomic crises, including:
- An official unemployment rate of 31.9%.
- A youth unemployment rate that soars to nearly 60%.
- Extreme inequality, with the country having one of the highest Gini coefficients in the world.
- Widespread governance failures and corruption that have eroded public trust.
Mokotedi’s experience is expected to strengthen the movement’s legal and policy frameworks, boosting its credibility as it prepares to contest the 2026 local government elections. Mayibuye Afrika has attracted a diverse leadership team, combining young activists with seasoned experts from various sectors.
Drawing on the historic “Mayibuye iAfrika” slogan, which calls for the return of Africa to its people, the movement is building a platform centered on economic justice, land reform, and state accountability. Its rising influence signals a potential shift in the country’s political landscape, challenging the dominance of traditional parties.