Reuben Brigety, the United States Ambassador to South Africa, has announced his resignation, making him the second envoy to step down after the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Brigety’s decision, effective January 10, 2025, is in line with standard diplomatic protocol during a change in the U.S. presidential administration. The resignation follows the election of Donald Trump, who defeated Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party, signaling a shift in leadership and direction for U.S. foreign policy.
In a statement released on November 18, Brigety confirmed his departure, expressing his immense pride in his service to South Africa. He emphasized that U.S. ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the sitting president, and following the election results, it is customary for diplomatic appointments to align with the new administration’s foreign policy priorities. Brigety’s departure comes after Meg Whitman, the U.S. ambassador to Kenya, also resigned following the election.
Brigety’s tenure in South Africa has been marked by numerous accomplishments, which he highlighted in his statement. Notably, he played a crucial role in strengthening U.S.-South Africa relations, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and global health. He expressed gratitude for the partnership between the U.S. and South Africa, which he described as both “warm” and “unwavering.”
One of Brigety’s most significant achievements was his work in boosting economic ties between the two nations. Under his leadership, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria facilitated key investments in critical sectors such as automotive, minerals, chemicals, agricultural products, and transportation. These investments were largely driven by the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a U.S. initiative that promotes economic development in sub-Saharan Africa. Brigety highlighted that these efforts contributed significantly to South Africa’s economic development and supported more than 267,000 jobs in the country.
Beyond economics, Brigety underscored the impactful collaboration between the two countries in public health. Through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. has been a critical partner in the fight against HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis in South Africa. He noted that joint investments in healthcare had significantly improved the health and well-being of millions of South Africans, contributing to stronger healthcare systems. The two nations also worked together to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, with efforts focused on vaccine manufacturing and enhancing health security and equity.
Cultural exchanges and educational opportunities also flourished during Brigety’s tenure. The U.S. Embassy helped foster greater understanding between the peoples of the two countries, strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Continuing Education and Training (CET) institutions. These efforts, particularly in renewable energy job readiness and student-driven entrepreneurship, aimed to equip South Africa’s youth with better employment opportunities and a path toward job creation.
Brigety also emphasized the deepened academic ties between the U.S. and South Africa, with over 120 universities and colleges forming partnerships to advance higher education. Through these collaborations, more than R54 million was invested in joint research, academic exchange, and curriculum development, further solidifying the educational ties between the two nations.
As Brigety prepares to depart, he expressed profound gratitude to the South African government and its people for their cooperation and hospitality during his time in the country. He leaves behind a legacy of strengthened bilateral ties, both in economic terms and through collaborative efforts in health, education, and culture.
In conclusion, Brigety’s resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in U.S.-South African relations. His efforts have not only strengthened economic ties but have also contributed to the broader U.S. engagement with Africa, particularly in addressing global health challenges and advancing educational opportunities. As the U.S. prepares for a new administration, Brigety’s achievements will be remembered as key milestones in the ongoing partnership between the United States and South Africa.
