Ramaphosa Buys ANC Jersey From Elderly Vendor During Campaign Visit to Mdantsane

President Cyril Ramaphosa attracted attention in Mdantsane township, Buffalo City, on Thursday morning after stopping to interact with an elderly street vendor selling hand-knitted jerseys in African National Congress (ANC) colours.

According to reports, Ramaphosa selected a woollen jersey from Mama Nozipho Dlamini’s display and reportedly paid her in cash before putting it on over his shirt. The moment drew cheers from residents who gathered around the President and captured the encounter on their mobile phones.

The visit formed part of the ANC’s door-to-door campaign activities across the Eastern Cape ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

The party’s Buffalo City Metro branch coordinator, Thembinkosi Gcilitshana, said the campaign included visits to Unit 7 and neighbouring streets in Mdantsane. He explained that the initiative was intended to bring ANC leaders closer to communities and give residents an opportunity to engage with them directly.

Mdantsane has traditionally been a strong support base for the ANC. However, the party faces growing competition from other political organisations, including the Patriotic Alliance and ActionSA, which have reportedly established ward offices in the township.

Despite the excitement surrounding Ramaphosa’s visit, residents continue to face significant challenges. Unemployment remains a major concern, while complaints about burst water pipes along Zwelakhe Road and unreliable electricity have added to frustrations within the community.

Dlamini, 73, reportedly became emotional after the President greeted her and asked for her name. She had started preparing her merchandise early in the morning, arranging the jerseys she sells after travelling from her home in Zwelihle.

The interaction was warmly received by some residents, but it also highlighted the challenges facing the ANC as it campaigns for support ahead of the elections.

While Ramaphosa’s engagement with the vendor created a memorable moment, questions remain about whether such campaign appearances will translate into stronger electoral support.

For many residents, the bigger issue is whether political leaders will deliver lasting improvements to basic services, infrastructure and employment opportunities.

As the election approaches, the ANC’s ability to address these concerns could prove just as important as its efforts to connect with voters on the campaign trail.

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