The Republic of South Africa has officially commenced a new chapter in its diplomatic relations with the Arab Republic of Egypt following the arrival of His Excellency Mr Jomo Nyambi, who has formally assumed his duties as Ambassador-designate of the Republic of South Africa to the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Ambassador Nyambi begins his diplomatic mission with a clear mandate to deepen the longstanding strategic partnership between South Africa and Egypt, strengthening cooperation across political, economic, trade, investment, cultural, educational, tourism and people-to-people relations, while advancing the broader African Agenda.
Warm Farewell and Strong Bilateral Commitment Before Departure
Prior to his departure for Cairo, Ambassador Nyambi paid a courtesy visit to Egypt House in Pretoria, where he met with H.E. Ambassador Ahmad Sharief, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to South Africa.
During the meeting, Ambassador Sharief extended his warm congratulations and best wishes to Ambassador Nyambi on his appointment, expressing confidence that his tenure would further elevate the already excellent relations between the two countries.
The Egyptian envoy reaffirmed the commitment to continued close coordination between the Embassy of Egypt in Pretoria and the South African Embassy in Cairo, noting that such cooperation would contribute significantly to advancing the shared aspirations and interests of the two brotherly African nations.
Ambassador Presents Copies of Letters of Credence
A key diplomatic milestone followed shortly after Ambassador Nyambi’s arrival in Egypt.
On 12 July 2026, Ambassador Nyambi held an official meeting with H.E. Ambassador Ayman El-Desouki Youssef, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Protocol and Chief of State Protocol of the Arab Republic of Egypt, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates in the New Administrative Capital.
During the meeting, Ambassador Nyambi formally presented copies of his Letters of Credence, an important diplomatic procedure that enables an ambassador-designate to officially commence his duties in the host country ahead of the formal presentation of credentials to the Head of State.
The engagement reaffirmed the strategic importance of the South Africa–Egypt bilateral relationship and provided an opportunity to discuss future cooperation between the two nations.
Accompanying Ambassador Nyambi was Mr Muhammad Abdool, Counsellor: Political at the South African Embassy in Egypt.
Strengthening South Africa–Egypt Relations
During discussions with the Chief of State Protocol, Ambassador Nyambi underscored the importance of the strategic partnership between South Africa and Egypt.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation across political, economic and social spheres, while supporting greater trade, investment, regional integration and collaboration within continental and multilateral institutions.
Ambassador Nyambi also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him since arriving in Cairo and conveyed his enthusiasm for serving in Egypt over the coming years.
Championing the African Agenda
In his introductory message upon assuming office, Ambassador Nyambi highlighted the historic friendship between South Africa and Egypt, rooted in shared struggles against colonialism, imperialism and apartheid.
He noted that both countries—among Africa’s largest economies—have a unique responsibility to work together in advancing the aspirations of Agenda 2063, including:
- Accelerating implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);
- Promoting peace, security and stability across the continent;
- Supporting regional economic integration;
- Advancing industrialisation and sustainable development; and
- Strengthening Africa’s collective voice in international affairs.
The Ambassador also reaffirmed the South African Embassy’s commitment to delivering efficient consular and immigration services while expanding cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges in areas such as arts, education, language, sport and academic cooperation.
A New Chapter in South Africa–Egypt Diplomacy
Ambassador Nyambi’s appointment signals South Africa’s continued commitment to strengthening one of Africa’s most significant bilateral partnerships.
His tenure is expected to focus on expanding cooperation in diplomacy, trade, investment, education, tourism, culture, science and technology, while fostering stronger collaboration on continental priorities through the African Union and other multilateral platforms.
As South Africa and Egypt continue to build upon decades of friendship and cooperation, Ambassador Nyambi’s leadership is set to further deepen relations between the two countries and contribute to a more integrated, prosperous and peaceful African continent.
