U.S. ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the President, and with the recent election in the U.S., the American people have expressed their choice for the future direction of our country, reflecting our shared commitment to democratic principles.

 

During my tenure, we have witnessed remarkable progress in the U.S.-South Africa partnership.  On trade, we have supported South African businesses in accessing the U.S. market through AGOA and fostered investments in the automotive, minerals, chemicals, agricultural products, and transportation sectors. These initiatives have contributed significantly to the country’s economic development and support more than 267,000 jobs in South Africa.

 

Our collaboration in global health has also been particularly impactful, with significant joint investments through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief in combating HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. These efforts have demonstrably improved the health and well-being of millions of South Africans and strengthened the country’s healthcare systems. We have also worked together to address the COVID-19 pandemic and enhance vaccine manufacturing capabilities, improving health security and equity.

 

The facilitation of cultural exchanges, educational opportunities, and increased understanding between our peoples has been equally enriching.  We have strengthened U.S.-South African higher education with partnerships among over 120 universities and colleges, and funded over R54 million in joint research, academic exchange, and curriculum development.  We have strengthened TVET and CET institutions, including in cutting edge fields, such as renewable energy job readiness and student driven entrepreneurship, and are giving youth greater access to better employment opportunities and a path toward job creation for others. Our outreach to youth audiences across South Africa has engaged over 210,000 young South Africans with programs ranging from youth leadership, entrepreneurship and technology readiness. Our advising efforts have helped bright young South Africans receive R42 million in scholarships.

 

All of this work has supported Atlanta Phambili, a flagship initiative launched by the U.S. Mission in March 2024.  This partnership forges stronger ties between the United States and South Africa by leveraging the institutions, civil rights legacy, creative industries, and economic dynamism of Atlanta and South Africa for the benefit of our citizens.  From a sister airport agreement between Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and Airports Company South Africa, to the people-to-people connections established during a March 2024 roadshow in Atlanta and the upcoming December 2024 reciprocal visit hosted by South Africa, it’s clear this effort will continue to produce meaningful collaboration and two-way exchange for years to come.

 

As I conclude my service, I express my profound gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for their warm hospitality and unwavering partnership.  To my U.S. Mission team, thank you for continuing to advance our mutual interests and cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. I know the Mission will continue to deepen the U.S.-South Africa relationship and it will flourish thanks to the strong foundations we’ve built together.

 

Thank you.

 

Ambassador Reuben E. Brigety II