South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally received Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-designate representing 20 countries, using the occasion to outline South Africa’s diplomatic priorities, economic recovery efforts, and commitment to a more just global order.
The ceremony, held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Tshwane, marked the official start of the diplomats’ missions in South Africa. It brought together ambassadors and high commissioners from Africa, Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Americas.
Full List of Accredited Countries
Envoys presenting their credentials came from: Angola, Barbados, Cuba, Denmark, Ghana, Haiti, Greece, Hungary, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Norway, Philippines, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, Ukraine, United States of America, and Zimbabwe.
These diplomats are now officially accredited to represent their respective governments in South Africa.
30 Years of Democracy
In his address, Ramaphosa highlighted that 2026 marks 30 years since the adoption of South Africa’s democratic Constitution. He described the Constitution as a product of the country’s painful past and a foundation for its democratic future.
He stressed that the values of human dignity, equality, and freedom are not only central to governance within South Africa but also shape how the country engages internationally.
“These principles are neither transient nor negotiable. They are enduring and binding,” he said.
Call for a Just Global Order
Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to a more equitable global system, rooted in peace, cooperation, and respect for international law.
He said South Africa seeks a world defined by peace and friendship among nations, reduced inequality between countries, unity against racism, colonialism, and all forms of oppression, conflict resolution through dialogue rather than military force.
The President emphasised that multilateralism remains essential in addressing global challenges such as conflict, climate change, and poverty.
Middle East and Global Stability
Turning to international developments, Ramaphosa welcomed recent efforts toward a ceasefire in the Middle East, expressing hope that it would lead to a lasting resolution.
He reiterated South Africa’s position that dialogue and mediation are key to preventing further loss of life and ensuring sustainable peace, while urging all nations to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Economic Recovery and Investment Push
Ramaphosa told the newly accredited diplomats that they arrive at a time when South Africa’s economy is recovering.
He pointed to Improved sovereign credit ratings, stabilised public debt, and ongoing job creation.
He also highlighted outcomes from the recent South Africa Investment Conference, which secured R889 billion in commitments.
Building on this, the government has set a target of attracting R3 trillion in new investments over the next three years.
A major infrastructure drive is central to this plan, with approximately R1 trillion earmarked for roads, dams, schools, hospitals, and other public projects.
“The state itself is at the forefront of this new, ambitious drive,” Ramaphosa said.
He added that reforms in energy, water, and logistics are underway, noting that the country’s energy crisis has largely been resolved.
Expectations for Diplomats
The President used the occasion to outline expectations for diplomatic conduct, stressing respect for host countries and adherence to international norms.
He said South African envoys abroad are instructed to avoid public criticism of host nations and instead raise concerns through private, constructive engagement — a principle aligned with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Ramaphosa encouraged the newly accredited diplomats to: promote trade and investment, strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties and build partnerships based on mutual respect.
Strengthening Historic and Future Ties
He noted that many of the represented countries supported South Africa during its liberation struggle and continue to do so through economic and diplomatic cooperation.
Quoting English poet John Donne, Ramaphosa said no nation exists in isolation, likening global diplomacy to a shared human fellowship.
Welcoming the envoys, Ramaphosa expressed confidence that their tenure in South Africa would deepen cooperation and contribute to a more peaceful and equal world.
“South Africa’s interest is to advance a better, more peaceful, more equal world, anchored in human rights and with respect for the dignity of all,” he said.
