South Africa is charting a new course in its diplomatic relationship with the United States, following months of tension and the high-profile removal of its former ambassador. International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa will soon appoint a new ambassador to Washington, signaling an intent to stabilize and rebuild a crucial international partnership.
This move comes on the heels of a diplomatic fallout that culminated in March 2025 with the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s former ambassador to the U.S. Rasool was declared persona non grata by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio after publicly criticizing the Trump administration’s policies. His removal sent ripples through the diplomatic community and marked one of the lowest points in recent U.S.-South African relations.
Tensions had already been simmering between the two nations, fueled by disagreements over land reform policy in South Africa and Pretoria’s decision to bring a legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. The incident with Rasool only deepened the rift.
In an effort to reset the tone and direction of the relationship, President Ramaphosa appointed Mcebisi Jonas—former Deputy Finance Minister and respected statesman—as Special Representative to the United States on April 14, 2025. Jonas is not taking on a traditional diplomatic post but is instead tasked with repairing strained ties and opening new channels for cooperation, particularly in trade and foreign policy.
Minister Lamola, speaking earlier this week, emphasized that Jonas’ role is strategic and foundational. “His job is to lay the groundwork,” Lamola said. “These are uncharted waters, and we need someone who understands both our national interests and how to communicate them in a complex international environment.”
While no specific timeline was given for when the new ambassador will be named, Lamola reassured that the appointment will follow once Jonas has made sufficient progress in smoothing over current tensions.
Despite recent diplomatic bumps, South Africa remains committed to restoring and strengthening its relationship with the United States. Officials say the focus now is on identifying shared interests—particularly around economic cooperation, climate policy, and peacebuilding—that can serve as common ground for moving forward.
For both countries, the coming months may prove pivotal. With a new ambassador on the horizon and a seasoned envoy already on the ground, South Africa is betting on dialogue, diplomacy, and a reset to repair what has long been one of its most important bilateral relationships.
