Ramaphosa Appoints Four New Deputy Ministers in Cabinet Reshuffle

July 2, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed four new deputy ministers as part of a cabinet reshuffle, adding new leadership across trade, energy, water and higher education portfolios.

The appointments include John Steenhuisen as deputy minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams as deputy minister of Electricity and Energy, Jack Bloom as deputy minister of Water and Sanitation, and Yusuf Cassim as deputy minister of Higher Education.

The changes expand the government’s leadership structure in sectors central to South Africa’s economic policy, infrastructure development and skills agenda.

Steenhuisen, who previously served as leader of the Democratic Alliance, will take up a role in the trade and industry portfolio, while Abrahams joins the energy ministry as the country continues efforts to address electricity supply challenges.

Bloom has been appointed to support the water and sanitation portfolio, and Cassim will serve as deputy minister responsible for higher education matters.

The reshuffle forms part of Ramaphosa’s ongoing adjustments to the executive following South Africa’s coalition government arrangements.

Source: FSX Business News