Mr. Ruben Brigety, US Ambassador to South Africa.
U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Ruben Brigety has announced that he will resign from his post in January 2025, in line with the standard transition period following a change in U.S. presidential administrations.
Brigety, who was appointed under outgoing President Joe Biden, will step down just before President Donald Trump's inauguration following the decisive Republican victory in the Nov. 5 election.
Republicans also hold a majority in the US House of Representatives, and Trump's second administration is expected to implement major policy changes that could reshape US foreign relations.
One expected focus is a more protectionist approach to trade, raising concerns about the future of South Africa's status under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa).
A key agreement that facilitates trade between the United States and African countries, Agoa has been South Africa's economic lifeblood, supporting thousands of jobs and industries.
In his resignation statement Monday, Brigety said his resignation was a result of a democratic process.
“The U.S. Ambassador serves at the pleasure of the President, and through recent elections, the American people expressed their choices about the future direction of our nation, reflecting our shared commitment to democratic principles.” said.
Brigety's tenure, which began in August 2022, was defined by a major diplomatic crisis in May 2023, when he accused South Africa of docking weapons destined for Russia aboard the Lady R at Simon's Town Naval Base. Ta.
These unproven allegations have resulted in strained relations between Pretoria and Washington.
At the time, the South African government strongly denied the claims, but the fallout caused the rand's value to plummet and sparked fears that relations with Western allies could be strained.
An independent investigation led by former Supreme Court appeals judge Phineas Mojapelo subsequently found no evidence to support Brigety's claims.
The panel concluded that the cargo in question came from the United Arab Emirates and had no connection to Russia.
Despite these findings, Brigety remained adamant about his claims, leading to heightened tensions with South African authorities. The ANC government called for his recall, saying his comments were “inciting and damaging” bilateral relations.
Economists say that if mistrust persists, the country's policy under the Agoa agreement could be compromised, especially as the Trump administration is expected to adopt tougher trade policies with an emphasis on America-first trade policies and increased oversight of international partnerships. He warns that it could jeopardize his position.
However, International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said last week that Pretoria would “engage” with the United States to strengthen ties following his visit in September.
Lamola is optimistic about resolving issues related to trade, Agoa and Pepfar's HIV/AIDS programs. Agoa, which allows tariff-free exports from Africa to the US, expires in 2025, while Pepfer aims to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030.
“Our relationship is dynamic and evolving. We have made our position clear with Congress and emphasized our mutual interests.”
Although Brigety's tenure was marked by diplomatic issues, he claims to have made positive developments in the relationship between the United States and South Africa, including increased economic cooperation and investment through Agoa.
He said the relationship supported more than 267,000 jobs in South Africa.
“Through Agoa, we have facilitated investment in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, agriculture, minerals, and transportation,” Brigety said, emphasizing the economic benefits of the partnership.
“Our outreach to young people across South Africa has seen more than 210,000 young South Africans participate in programs ranging from leadership and entrepreneurship to technology readiness. Thanks to you, some of South Africa's brightest young people received R42 million in scholarships.”
Mr. Brigety highlighted advances in technical and vocational education, particularly in renewable energy.
“We have strengthened TVET” [Technical and Vocational Education and Training] and CET [Community Education and Training] “Various institutions will equip young people with the skills needed for employment and entrepreneurship, providing pathways to job creation and innovation,” he added.
“It is a great honor to serve in this role and foster the strong relationship between the United States and South Africa,” he said. “As I conclude my service, I would like to express my deep gratitude to the South African government and people for their hospitality and steadfast partnership.”
