Science and technology minister Naledi Pandor has been appointed by President Jacob Zuma as minister of home affairs, the presidency said on Wednesday.

Deputy Science Minister Derek Hanekom will take over as minister of science and technology.

"I congratulate Ms Pandor and Mr Hanekom on their appointments," Zuma said in a statement.

"They have distinguished themselves in their current portfolios and I am confident that they will do exceptionally well in their new responsibilities as well. I wish them all the best."

On Tuesday Zuma announced that Pandor would be acting in the position as minister of home affairs.

In a statement issued on his behalf, he said Pandor would hold the position until the vacancy was filled.

Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma resigned from her position last month to head up the African Union commission in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Hanekom would be sworn in as minister on Thursday at the Union Buildings in Pretoria at 10am.