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South Africa Appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to Repair U.S. Relations

The move follows the expulsion of South Africa's ambassador and financial aid cuts by the Trump administration, as tensions rise over land reform and foreign policy disputes.

Expelled South Africa Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool speaks to supporters upon his arrival at Cape Town International Airport, in Cape Town, South Africa, Sunday, March 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)
President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
President Donald Trump gestures to the crowd as he departs after welcoming the 2025 College Football National Champions, the Ohio State University football team, during an event on the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, April 14, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
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Overview

  • South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has named former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States to address strained bilateral relations.
  • Jonas will focus on advancing South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities, engaging with U.S. officials and private-sector leaders.
  • The appointment comes after the U.S. expelled South Africa's ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, and reduced financial aid, citing disagreements over land reform policies and legal actions against Israel.
  • Jonas will retain his role as independent non-executive chairman of MTN Group while serving as special envoy, reflecting a dual commitment to political and corporate responsibilities.
  • The Trump administration has criticized South Africa's land expropriation law and its genocide case against Israel, further straining the historically strategic relationship between the two nations.