Who is Nkosana Makate? The Man Who Took on Vodacom and Won Hearts
When you hear the phrase “Please Call Me,” chances are you’re thinking of a simple message — but behind those three words is a man whose fight shook one of Africa’s biggest telecoms to the core.
Nkosana Makate is not just your average South African businessman. He’s the brain behind the groundbreaking “Please Call Me” mobile messaging concept. But what really made him a household name was his long and bitter legal battle with Vodacom, a story that reads like something out of a courtroom drama series!
Age and Background – How Old Is He Now?
Born in 1977, Nkosana Makate is currently 48 years old as of 2025. He hails from Katlehong in Gauteng province, a township that has produced many of South Africa’s underdog heroes.
Growing up, he was always known for his sharp mind and tech-savvy thinking. No wonder he came up with an idea that would later become one of the most used mobile features in Africa.
Education – Brains Behind the Brilliance
Makate is not just a dreamer; he’s a highly educated one. He studied BCom in Accounting at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University), one of the most prestigious universities in South Africa.
Later, he added a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) to his name, further strengthening his credentials in the corporate world. This educational background gave him the edge to challenge a corporate giant — and not just with emotion, but with solid legal and business knowledge.
Wife and Family – Who Is Mrs. Makate?
Though Nkosana tends to keep his personal life away from the glare of the media, what we do know is that he’s happily married. His wife has stood by him through thick and thin — from his early career days to the courtroom battles that almost seemed never-ending.
Together, they have children, and if sources are to be believed, the family lives a quiet and dignified life in Johannesburg. No scandals, no public meltdowns — just a man focused on making things right and a family that supports him silently from the shadows.
Net Worth – Just How Rich Is Nkosana Makate Now?
Here’s the juicy part everyone wants to know!
After years of back-and-forth with Vodacom, Nkosana Makate was finally vindicated by South Africa’s Constitutional Court in 2016. Though the exact figure of compensation was kept under wraps for years, reports suggest it could be anything from R10 billion to R20 billion — depending on how the calculations go.
However, as of 2025, he is still fighting to get what he believes is a fair amount for his idea. Despite the ongoing battle, Makate’s net worth is currently estimated at over R500 million, thanks to multiple business ventures and investments. Yes, he’s not just waiting around — the man is moving!
The Legal War with Vodacom – A David vs Goliath Tale
Let’s not sugarcoat it — the battle between Nkosana Makate and Vodacom was ugly, long, and draining.
Makate came up with the “Please Call Me” idea in 2000 while he was still an employee at Vodacom. He pitched it, they loved it, and they used it — but refused to compensate him properly. He sued, they resisted, and South Africa watched the drama unfold for years.
In 2016, after nearly 16 years of courtroom gymnastics, the Constitutional Court ruled in Makate’s favor. But Vodacom’s delay in paying him what’s due continues to be a trending topic in the country.
Legacy – More Than Just a Tech Innovator
Makate’s story isn’t just about tech or legal battles — it’s about resilience, innovation, and courage. He stood up for his rights, and in doing so, became a symbol of hope for many South Africans who feel crushed by corporate systems.
Today, he mentors young entrepreneurs, speaks at events, and continues to advocate for innovation rights in the tech space.
Want To Read More:
Tope Olowoniyan Biography: Age, Height, Husband, Surgery & More
Ojy Okpe Biography: Husband, State Of Origin, Mother, Net Worth
Sara Duterte Biography: Family, Birthdate, Age, Height, Son
Zia Grace Biography: Parents, Age, Mother, Child Star
Conclusion – Why You Should Remember the Name: Nkosana Makate
In a world full of forgotten inventors and stolen ideas, Nkosana Makate’s name will be remembered — not just for “Please Call Me”, but for showing Africa that no idea is too small and no man is too powerless to demand justice.
He’s an example of what happens when you mix brilliance with backbone — and honestly, we love to see it!
