Community members seated together at a village development meeting

About the Jacob G. Zuma Foundation

Supporting disadvantaged communities and contributing to meaningful social and economic development in South Africa.

Who We Are

The Jacob G. Zuma Foundation supports disadvantaged communities and contributes to social and economic development across South Africa.

The Foundation responds to the needs of beneficiary communities through research, capacity building, skills development, community initiatives and strategic partnerships. Our work is focused on poor and rural communities, helping targeted beneficiaries access the opportunities, services and resources that improve livelihoods.

Our Vision

Breaking the Cycle of Generational Poverty

The Foundation strives to respond effectively and efficiently to the needs of beneficiary communities while operating with accountability, integrity and purpose. We champion equality through research, capacity development, skills development and community empowerment.

Our Mission

We are committed to broadening our network of donor partners and development organisations so that upliftment among impoverished South Africans is meaningful and life changing. Our mission is to:

  • Support vulnerable and impoverished communities.
  • Promote sustainable community development.
  • Improve access to Government support services.
  • Develop skills and capacity among beneficiaries.
  • Support economic and social empowerment.
  • Build effective partnerships.
  • Address social challenges affecting communities.
  • Contribute towards breaking cycles of generational poverty.
Instructor guiding two young learners during a practical skills class

Our Goals

  • Fighting poverty and deprivation.
  • Promoting human values.
  • Supporting rural development.
  • Addressing social challenges.
  • Promoting skills and capacity development.
  • Supporting access to Government services.
  • Encouraging community participation.
  • Developing strategic partnerships.
  • Promoting moral regeneration.
  • Supporting sustainable economic opportunity.

Our Values

Participatory and Inclusive Development

Communities should take part in the development initiatives that affect their lives.

Professionalism and Transparency

We conduct our dealings with openness, professionalism and accountability.

Empathy for Human Success

We approach development with empathy, dignity and respect for every beneficiary.

Our Principles

The Foundation is guided by the Batho Pele principles. They shape how we serve communities and how we work with stakeholders.

  • Leadership and Strategic Direction
  • Consultation
  • Service Standards
  • Courtesy
  • Access
  • Information
  • Openness and Transparency
  • Redress
  • Giving Best Value
  • Encouraging Innovation and Rewarding Excellence

Governance

Patron

Mr J. G. Zuma

Board of Directors

The governance structure includes a Board of Directors of approximately five to ten members. Appointments are based on professional expertise, experience and areas of specialisation.

Executive Structure

The Executive CEO provides leadership, strategic direction and organisational oversight. Portfolio Officers manage designated programmes, projects and stakeholder relationships. Administration provides operational and coordination support.