President Cyril Ramaphosa has named former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as South Africa’s special envoy to the United States with the mandate of repairing strained relations between both nations.
The diplomatic rift widened after Washington expelled South Africa’s ambassador and cut aid earlier this year, objecting to Pretoria’s land reform policies and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Jonas, who currently chairs telecom giant MTN, brings anti-corruption credentials to the role, having testified against graft during the Zuma administration.
He will represent South Africa in high-level talks while maintaining his private sector position.
“The envoy will focus on rebuilding strategic partnerships and identifying mutual interests,” read a presidential statement. Jonas acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in finding common ground between the nations.
