U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, has announced his resignation following the electoral victory of Republican candidate Donald Trump over Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party. Brigety, who assumed his role in 2022, will step down effective January 10, 2025, as part of standard diplomatic procedure during a change in presidential administration.
In his statement dated November 18, Brigety expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and emphasized the strong ties between the United States and South Africa during his tenure.
“Today, I informed the Government of South Africa that I will resign as the U.S. Ambassador to South Africa effective January 10, 2025, in accordance with standard procedure during a change of presidential administration,” Brigety stated.
Reflecting on his achievements, he highlighted strides made in strengthening economic partnerships, including increased investments in South Africa’s automotive, minerals, chemicals, agricultural products, and transportation sectors through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). These initiatives, he noted, have supported over 267,000 jobs in the country.
Brigety also commended the robust collaboration between the two nations in global health, particularly through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has improved healthcare outcomes for millions of South Africans while bolstering the country’s health systems.
“Our efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic and enhance vaccine manufacturing capabilities have significantly improved health security and equity,” he added.
The ambassador pointed to advancements in cultural and educational exchanges, noting the strengthening of partnerships among over 120 universities and colleges. Under his leadership, the U.S. funded over R54 million in joint research, academic exchanges, and curriculum development, while also enhancing youth employment and entrepreneurship opportunities through support for TVET and CET institutions.
Brigety expressed his profound appreciation to the government and people of South Africa for their warm hospitality and collaboration, describing his time in the role as a deep honor.
He becomes the second U.S. ambassador to announce a resignation after Kenya’s envoy, Meg Whitman, following the recent U.S. elections.
