Capacity: Judge
First Appointed as a Judge: November 2011 (KwaZulu-Natal High Court)
Gender: Male
Ethnicity: Black
Date of Birth: July 1958
Qualifications: Bjuris (1984) LLB ( 1996)(UNISA) LLM (2011)(Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University)
Candidate Bio:
Judge Zaba Nkosi is a judge of the KwaZulu-Natal High Court.
He has dedicated over four decades of service to South Africa’s legal system, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice and fairness. His legal career began humbly in 1978 when he worked as a court interpreter and clerk until 1985. During this period, he developed a deep understanding of the legal process, which equipped him for his next role as a public prosecutor in 1985. This position allowed him to hone his skills in criminal law and court procedures.
In 1986, Judge Zaba Nkosi’s career took a significant step forward when he was appointed as an additional magistrate. He served in this capacity until 1994, before taking on the additional responsibility of a training officer for magistrates from 1994 to 1995. During this time, Judge Nkosi helped shape the careers of many magistrates, playing a key role in ensuring that new members of the judiciary were well-trained and equipped to uphold the law.
After nearly 25 years as a magistrate, Judge Zaba Nkosi was appointed to the bench as a judge of the High Court in 2011, marking the beginning of a distinguished judicial career that continues today. Throughout his time on the bench, Judge Nkosi has presided over a variety of important cases, including complex civil and administrative matters.
In Umgungundlovu District Municipality v Amaraka Investments 37 (Pty) Limited and Others (2018), Judge Zaba Nkosi dealt with a dispute between the municipality and a private investment company over the termination of a land development agreement. His ruling clarified the obligations of both parties under public law, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to contractual obligations in government transactions. The judgment is notable for its thorough application of administrative law principles and its reinforcement of the duty of municipalities to act lawfully and in the public interest.
Another significant case in Judge Zaba Nkosi’s career was Fourie and Another v Tropical Winter Trading (Pty) Ltd and Another (2023), a complex commercial dispute involving breach of contractual claims. In this case, Judge Nkosi ruled in favour of the plaintiffs, highlighting the importance of contractual clarity and enforcing agreements that are free from misrepresentation or fraud. His judgment was praised for its detailed analysis of the evidence and its contribution to developing South African contract law.
Judge Zaba Nkosi’s academic achievements further complement his judicial expertise. He holds a BJur degree (1984) and an LLB (1996) from UNISA, as well as an LLM (2011) from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). His continuous pursuit of legal knowledge reflects his dedication to the evolving landscape of South African law.
Throughout his career, Judge Zaba Nkosi has been a role model within the judiciary, known for his meticulous approach to the law and his commitment to fairness. His leadership in the magistracy and on the bench has earned him respect among his peers, and his contribution to the development of South African legal jurisprudence continues to influence the next generation of legal professionals.
