South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is reportedly preparing to appoint veteran negotiator Roelf Meyer as the country’s next ambassador to the United States, in a move aimed at resetting strained diplomatic ties with Washington. Meyer, 78, a former constitutional affairs minister during apartheid, is widely recognised for his key role in South Africa’s transition to democracy and his collaboration with the African National Congress in ending minority rule.
Meyer would replace Ebrahim Rasool, following months of diplomatic friction between Pretoria and Washington. Relations worsened after Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025 and his repeated claims accusing South Africa of land seizures targeting white farmers. Tensions escalated further after Rasool was declared persona non grata, leaving a vacancy in one of South Africa’s most critical diplomatic posts.
Meyer said he was unaware of the appointment when contacted, though officials confirmed a new envoy has been chosen. The proposed appointment signals Pretoria’s effort to rebuild trust and stabilise engagement with its key trading partner, with the United States remaining a major export destination for South African goods and a significant source of foreign investment.
