South Africa’s High Commissioner-designate to Rwanda, H.E. Tinyiko George Hlungwane, has presented copies of his letters of credence to Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, in Kigali.
The presentation marks an important step towards Hlungwane formally taking up his diplomatic responsibilities as South Africa’s representative in Rwanda.
Tinyiko George Hlungwane Begins Diplomatic Assignment in Rwanda
Minister Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe received copies of the letters of credence from Hlungwane, who has been designated as South Africa’s new High Commissioner to the Republic of Rwanda.
Rwanda’s Cabinet approved Hlungwane’s appointment in March 2026, alongside new envoys from Sweden and Cuba. The appointment provides for his residence in Kigali.
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation also lists H.E. Mr T.G. Hlungwane as the country’s High Commissioner in Rwanda.
Strengthening South Africa–Rwanda Relations
The arrival of a new South African High Commissioner in Kigali comes at a significant period in relations between the two countries.
South Africa and Rwanda have been working to strengthen and normalise their bilateral relationship following a period of diplomatic difficulties. In June 2026, Minister Nduhungirehe visited South Africa and held discussions with his South African counterpart on efforts to improve bilateral relations.
Hlungwane’s appointment and arrival in Kigali provide an opportunity for renewed diplomatic engagement and continued dialogue between Pretoria and Kigali.
A New Chapter for Bilateral Diplomacy
The presentation of copies of credentials is a standard diplomatic step that precedes the formal assumption of duties by an ambassador or high commissioner.
For South Africa and Rwanda, the development comes as both countries seek to rebuild confidence and strengthen cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
Hlungwane’s tenure is expected to provide a channel for continued engagement between the two governments and contribute to efforts to deepen bilateral relations.
South Africa Returns High-Level Diplomatic Representation to Rwanda
Hlungwane succeeds Mandisi Bongani Mpahlwa, who completed his tenure as South Africa’s High Commissioner to Rwanda in 2024. Rwanda’s The New Times reported that Hlungwane was appointed to replace Mpahlwa after the position had remained without a serving South African High Commissioner.
His arrival therefore restores resident high-level South African diplomatic representation in Kigali and comes at a time when Pretoria and Kigali are seeking to advance efforts to normalise relations.
The presentation of his credentials to Minister Nduhungirehe represents an early step in that renewed diplomatic engagement.
