Mcebisi Jonas: Bridging Diplomatic Gaps Between South Africa and the U.S.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States. Jonas will maintain his role as MTN Group chairman while advancing South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities with the U.S., amid recent tensions between the countries.

In a strategic move to mend fraying ties, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has named Mcebisi Jonas, a former deputy finance minister, as a special envoy to the United States. Jonas, who currently holds a position as the independent non-executive chairman of MTN Group, is set to juggle his corporate responsibilities with his new diplomatic role.

Jonas is charged with advancing South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities with the U.S. His mission involves leading negotiations, forging strategic partnerships, and engaging with key U.S. government and private-sector figures to represent South Africa's interests on the international stage.

Relations between South Africa and the U.S. have deteriorated following the reinstatement of U.S. President Donald Trump. Key issues, including the U.S.'s displeasure with South Africa's land reform policies and a legal case involving Israel at the International Court of Justice, have led to financial aid cuts and the expulsion of South Africa's ambassador. Jonas, known for his candid stance against corruption during his tenure in government, played a significant role in the judicial inquiry into graft under former President Jacob Zuma's administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)