10 Expensive Things Owned by South Africa’s Jacob Zuma

Jacob Zuma, the former President of South Africa, is a figure who has attracted both admiration and controversy throughout his political career.

Serving as the country’s president from 2009 to 2018, Zuma has been at the center of numerous political scandals, including corruption charges, mismanagement, and accusations of state capture.

However, despite the controversies, Zuma’s personal wealth and luxurious lifestyle have also sparked attention.

Over the years, he has amassed a collection of valuable assets and properties, with some of them becoming notorious due to their cost and lavish nature.

From private residences to rare collections, here’s a look at 10 of the most expensive things owned by Jacob Zuma.

1. Nkandla Rural Homestead

Perhaps the most famous and infamous of Zuma’s possessions is his Nkandla home in KwaZulu-Natal.

The property, initially a modest rural homestead, became the center of national controversy when it underwent extensive renovations during Zuma’s presidency, funded by taxpayers.

The cost of the renovations—reported to be over R200 million—prompted widespread outrage, leading to a public inquiry and the eventual decision by the Constitutional Court that Zuma must pay back a portion of the costs.

The compound includes luxurious features such as a swimming pool, amphitheater, cattle kraal, and a helipad, with many questioning the extravagance given the public funds involved.

2. Luxury Vehicles

Jacob Zuma is known to have a fleet of luxury vehicles, including high-end cars that reflect his status and wealth.

Some of these vehicles include various models of Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW, with customized security features.

These vehicles are often used for official state duties, but they also play a role in portraying Zuma’s affluence.

Additionally, Zuma is said to have a personal armored car, ensuring that he remains safe while maintaining his image as a prominent political figure.

3. Private Jet

As president, Zuma had access to several state-owned aircraft, but reports suggest that he also had access to a private jet for personal and official use.

These jets were used not only for state visits but also for personal trips, leading to further scrutiny over the use of state resources.

The cost of maintaining these private jets, including fuel and security, is a significant expense, adding to Zuma’s already substantial portfolio of luxury assets.

4. Cattle

Zuma’s affinity for cattle is well-known in South Africa, particularly among his supporters. He is reported to own hundreds of cattle, which he keeps on his Nkandla estate and other properties.

These cattle are considered a symbol of wealth and status in many African cultures, and Zuma has often been seen as a traditional leader.

The value of Zuma’s cattle collection, which includes prized breeds, could be worth millions of rands, further cementing his position as one of South Africa’s wealthiest politicians.

5. Gucci and Louis Vuitton Wardrobe

Jacob Zuma is known for his taste in high-end fashion, often spotted wearing luxury clothing from brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and other international designers.

His wardrobe has included expensive suits, shoes, and accessories, making him a prominent figure in the world of luxury fashion.

While this has also attracted criticism for its extravagance during a period of economic disparity in South Africa, it has not diminished his penchant for fine clothing and accessories.

6. Private Properties in Johannesburg

Aside from his renowned Nkandla homestead, Zuma also owns several properties in Johannesburg.

These properties are reportedly located in some of the city’s more affluent neighborhoods, serving as his urban residences.

The cost of these properties, along with the additional expenses of maintaining them, adds significantly to Zuma’s wealth.

While the exact number of properties he owns in Johannesburg is unclear, these homes are an indication of his deep-rooted presence in South Africa’s real estate market.

7. Zulu Traditional Regalia

As a leader of the Zulu people, Zuma holds a special connection to his heritage, and as such, he owns several pieces of traditional Zulu regalia.

These include valuable beadwork, cloaks, and headpieces that are worn during ceremonial events or important gatherings.

The regalia not only represent Zuma’s cultural leadership but are also expensive and rare items that can be considered valuable collectibles.

8. Cape Town Properties

Zuma’s wealth is not confined to the rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal; he also owns properties in Cape Town, one of the most sought-after locations in South Africa.

These properties, especially in the more upscale areas, are indicative of Zuma’s expansive real estate holdings.

While details of all his Cape Town properties remain scarce, the city’s reputation for being one of the country’s most expensive housing markets makes these properties a significant financial investment.

9. Art Collection

Jacob Zuma is believed to own a private art collection, consisting of works by some of South Africa’s renowned artists.

These artworks, often depicting African culture and history, not only represent Zuma’s support for local artists but also reflect his appreciation for fine art.

The value of these works is difficult to estimate, but considering the artists involved, Zuma’s collection could be worth millions.

10. Luxury Watches and Jewelry

Zuma has been seen wearing several luxury watches and pieces of jewelry, which have become symbolic of his wealth and status. These watches, some from renowned Swiss brands, are often worth hundreds of thousands of rands.

Additionally, Zuma is known to wear expensive jewelry, including rings and bracelets, that reflect his high social standing.

Luxury timepieces and jewelry are often considered indicators of wealth in South Africa’s political and business circles, and Zuma’s collection fits this pattern.

Controversy and Public Perception

While Jacob Zuma’s wealth and the possessions mentioned above are often seen as symbols of success, they have also been the subject of public scrutiny.

Critics argue that many of his acquisitions, particularly the Nkandla homestead renovations, were funded by taxpayer money, raising questions about corruption and the mismanagement of state funds.

Zuma has faced numerous legal battles, including corruption charges, and his lavish lifestyle has been repeatedly criticized in the media.

Despite the controversies, Zuma has maintained a loyal following, particularly within the African National Congress (ANC), where his political influence remains significant.

For some, his wealth is seen as a reflection of his success and the rewards of his political career, while for others, it represents a disconnect between the political elite and the struggling South African public.

Conclusion

Jacob Zuma’s wealth is a combination of political success, personal investments, and the spoils of being a leader in one of the most powerful nations in Africa.

From luxurious homes to rare cattle and high-end fashion, Zuma’s possessions reflect a life of affluence and privilege.

However, these same possessions have also been a source of controversy and debate, with many questioning the origins of his wealth and the ethics behind his lifestyle choices.

Whether admired or criticized, the expensive things owned by Jacob Zuma underscore the complexities of his legacy in South Africa’s political history.