On 08 April 2026, Cyril Ramaphosa officially received Letters of Credence from 20 newly appointed Ambassadors and High Commissioners during a formal diplomatic ceremony held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House.

The ceremony marks a critical step in diplomatic protocol, formally recognising Heads of Mission designated by their respective governments to represent their countries in South Africa.

Strengthening Global Diplomatic Relations

Welcoming the envoys, President Ramaphosa emphasised South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism, peace, and inclusive global development. He highlighted that 2026 marks 30 years since the adoption of South Africa’s democratic Constitution—an important milestone shaping the country’s foreign policy outlook.

The President encouraged the diplomats to deepen cooperation in key areas such as:

• Trade and investment
• Climate action
• Peace and security
• Cultural and people-to-people exchanges

He further called for stronger collaboration in addressing global challenges including inequality, conflict, and sustainable development.

Full List of Countries Represented

The 20 Heads of Mission-designate who presented their credentials represent the following countries:

1. Angola — H.E. Mr João Baptista Domingos Quiosa (Ambassador)
2. Barbados — H.E. Mr William Alexander McDonald (High Commissioner)
3. Cuba — H.E. Mr Fakri Rodriguez Pinelo (Ambassador)
4. Denmark — H.E. Ms Karin Poulsen (Ambassador)
5. Ghana — H.E. Mr Benjamin Anani Quashie (High Commissioner)
6. Haiti — H.E. Mr Jean Robert Pillard (Ambassador)
7. Greece (Hellenic Republic) — H.E. Ms Efthalia Kakiopoulou (Ambassador)
8. Hungary — H.E. Mr Viktor Géza Fülöp (Ambassador)
9. Lebanon — H.E. Mr Giscard El Khoury (Ambassador)
10. Malaysia — H.E. Dato’ Yubazlan Bin Yusof (High Commissioner)
11. Mauritius — H.E. Mrs Maria Francesca Mireille Martin (High Commissioner)
12. Mozambique — H.E. Ms Maria Gustava (High Commissioner)
13. Namibia — H.E. Ms Nangula Frieda Ithele (High Commissioner)
14. Niger — H.E. Mr Amadou Diallo (Ambassador)
15. Norway — H.E. Ms Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim (Ambassador)
16. Philippines — H.E. Myla Grace Ragenia C. Macahilig (Ambassador)
17. Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic — H.E. Mr Bah El Mad Abdellah (Ambassador)
18. Ukraine — H.E. Dr Oleksandr Sherba (Ambassador)
19. United States — H.E. Leo Brent Bozell III (Ambassador)
20. Zimbabwe — H.E. Mr Lovemore Mazemo (Ambassador)

Role of Letters of Credence

Letters of Credence are formal diplomatic documents issued by a Head of State, authorising ambassadors to represent their country abroad. Their presentation signifies:

• Official recognition by the host country
• The beginning of the ambassador’s diplomatic mission
• Activation of full diplomatic privileges and responsibilities

A Strategic Diplomatic Moment for South Africa

The credentials ceremony reinforces South Africa’s position as a key diplomatic hub on the African continent, particularly within the Global South. The diverse representation—from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the Caribbean—highlights Pretoria’s broad international engagement strategy.

As South Africa continues to advance its foreign policy priorities, including economic diplomacy and multilateral cooperation, the arrival of these envoys is expected to strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships across multiple sectors.

GALLERY