New special envoy to the US appointed by Ramaphosa

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Mcebisi Jonas is South Africa’s new Special Envoy to the United States of America. The announcement was made by President Cyril Ramaphosa in a statement on Monday, 14 April.

Special envoy to the US will officially represent South Africa

According to the Presidency, as special envoy to the US, Jonas will be the official representative of the president and the government of South Africa. He will “lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests.”

Mcebisi Jonas is the former deputy minister of finance. He was also one of four presidential Investment Envoys appointed by Ramaphosa in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa.

Jonas is currently the independent non-executive chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will continue in alongside his responsibilities as special envoy to the US.

Ramaphosa could still appoint an ambassador, as it seems special envoys are temporary by nature. In his book on diplomatic communication, G. R. Berridge (professor emeritus of international politics at the University of Leicester) describes special envoys as temporary and focused on a particular issue.

The South African has contacted the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in an attempt to get clarification about the ambassadorial implications of Jonas being appointed. This article will be updated once a response is received.

Ramaphosa reaffirms commitment to US-SA relationship

In his statement about the new special envoy, Ramaphosa detailed the importance of South Africa’s relationship with the United States. He said: “In the interest of our country, our region and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades on the basis of mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty and benefit for our respective peoples.”

Relations between South Africa and the United States have been tested in recent times. US President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order criticising South Africa’s domestic and foreign policy in February. Former Ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool was expelled in March, following his criticism of Trump’s administration.

Jonas’ appointment comes amidst a current global trade war. South Africa is expected to negotiate tariffs with the Trump administration in the coming months.