By Lulama kaSozathini | Icamagu News | 14 April 2025. Image: GCIS
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially appointed former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas as his Special Envoy to the United States of America, a strategic move aimed at strengthening South Africa’s international relations and economic diplomacy with one of its longstanding global partners.
In a statement released by the Presidency, President Ramaphosa emphasized Mr Jonas’s critical role as the official representative of both the President and the government of the Republic of South Africa in the U.S.
“Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities,” said President Ramaphosa. “He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests.”
Mr Jonas’s appointment marks a continuation of a distinguished career in public service and economic leadership. He was one of four Presidential Investment Envoys appointed by President Ramaphosa in 2018 to drive investment into the country. His experience as Deputy Finance Minister and his current role as Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group are expected to bring both gravitas and practical insight to his new position—both roles he will now hold concurrently.
This appointment, the President said, reflects Mr Jonas’s “distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests.”
President Ramaphosa further reaffirmed the strategic importance of South Africa’s relationship with the United States, a bond rooted in decades of historical and bilateral engagement.
“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,” he concluded.
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