Maite Nkoana-Mashabane was born in Ga-Makanye village, Limpopo Province. She was married to the late Mr. Norman Mashabane.

During the 1980s, she was an active member of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and served in various structures of the Mass Democratic Movement (MDM) and ANC underground structures.

After the unbanning of the ANC in 1990, she served the party in various structures including the ANC Women's League and actively participated in the re-launch of the ANC Women's League in the country.

1992-1995: She was Chairperson of the ANC Women's League in Limpopo and also served as a member of the National Working Committee of the ANC Women's League.

1994-1995: She served as a Member of Parliament in the National Assembly.

1995-1999: She was appointed as High Commissioner to Malaysia, servicing the Philippines and Brunei.

1999-2005: She was appointed High Commissioner to India, servicing Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal.

2004 November: She was appointed MEC for Local Government and Housing in Limpopo and assumed her duties in January 2005.

2004-2008: Deputy Secretary-General of the ANC in Limpopo

2004-2008: Member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC) of the ANC Women's League.

2007 to date: Provincial Convener of the Progressive Women's Movement (Limpopo)

2007 to date: Member of the ANC NEC and NWC

She was appointed Minister of International Relations and Cooperation by President Jacob Zuma on May 10, 2009, and sworn in on May 11

[Biographical information from Limpopo provincial government website]