Prior to entering politics Mfeketo's worked for a number of non-governmental organisations (NGO).

[2][3][4] In 1993, she became involved in negotiations to combine state and non-state activities in preparation for South Africa's transition to multiracial democracy.

[1] She was re-elected mayor following the floor-crossing period which gave her party, the African National Congress (ANC), the majority in the city council in 2002, ousting Gerald Morkel of the Democratic Alliance (DA).

[5] She held the post until the DA regained control of the council in 2006, after which Helen Zille took office.

In 2009 the DA alleged that Mfeketo received a custom built 'mansion' worth R8 million as part of a controversial government housing plan for ministers in Cape Town and Pretoria even though she owned a private residence 9 km away.