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.