Here's who's part of Cyril Ramaphosa's high-level delegation to US

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President Cyril Ramaphosa touched down in Washington DC for a critical Working Visit, accompanied by one of the most high-powered delegations seen in recent diplomatic engagements with the United States.

While the spotlight is on the Ramaphosa’s Wednesday meeting with US President Donald Trump, it is the calibre of the South African delegation that underscores the seriousness of the visit and its objectives to reset bilateral ties.

Key members of the delegation

Cyril Ramaphosa is supported by a formidable team of Cabinet Ministers and officials, each representing strategic portfolios that align with South Africa’s goals on trade, diplomacy, and development.

The delegation includes:

Ronald Lamola – Minister of International Relations and Cooperation: Tasked with guiding South Africa’s foreign policy and maintaining strategic global partnerships
Khumbudzo Ntshavheni – Minister in the Presidency: Responsible for cross-government coordination and policy implementation, Ntshavheni brings strong administrative experience to the mission
Parks Tau – Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition: Tau is expected to lead discussions around AGOA, industrialisation, and investment incentives, especially in light of recent US tariff hikes
John Steenhuisen – Minister of Agriculture: His inclusion highlights agriculture’s role in trade talks, with South Africa’s citrus and wine exports being among the sectors affected by AGOA policy shifts
Mcebisi Jonas – Special Envoy to the United States: The former Deputy Finance Minister plays a key role in strengthening political and economic diplomacy, leveraging his expertise and networks within the US

Strategic importance of the delegation

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya emphasised the collective strength of the team, saying the delegation is “well-prepared to engage at the highest level and ensure that South Africa’s interests are firmly on the table.”

Their presence signals a coordinated and whole-of-government approach, covering all key sectors likely to feature in bilateral negotiations – from trade and energy, to agriculture, finance, and multilateral cooperation.

A mission to reset relations

With the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) hanging in the balance, and geopolitical tensions reshaping global alliances, the visit is seen as a pivotal moment for recalibrating South Africa’s relationship with Washington.

Magwenya said the focus is not just on “dispelled narratives” but on building a “mutually beneficial and forward-looking partnership.”