South Africa Appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to U.S.

On Monday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa named former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States.

Jonas, who currently serves as the independent non-executive chairman of MTN Group, a major telecommunications company, will maintain his role at MTN while undertaking his new diplomatic responsibilities.

“Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” said a statement from President Ramaphosa’s office.

The appointment comes at a time when relations between South Africa and the United States have worsened since President Donald Trump returned to office in January.

The U.S. has slashed financial aid to South Africa, citing concerns over its land reform agenda and its legal case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Additionally, Washington expelled South Africa’s ambassador last month.

Jonas previously held the position of deputy finance minister from 2014 to 2017. He gained recognition for speaking out against corruption and played a key role in the judicial inquiry that examined graft and undue influence during former President Jacob Zuma’s administration.

During the inquiry, Jonas testified that the Gupta brothers known associates of Zuma offered him the finance minister post and a large sum of money. Both Zuma and the Guptas have denied any wrongdoing.