Ramaphosa appoints special envoy to the United States

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas as special envoy to the US.

“In this capacity, Mr. Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities,” according to a statement seen by Bloomberg and verified by the presidency on Monday.

“He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests.”

The appointment comes a month after Washington expelled Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool over comments he made about US policy.

Jonas, who turns 65 this year, currently serves as chairman of telecommunications company MTN Group — a position he will retain alongside his responsibilities as envoy, according to the presidency.

He’s also worked as one of four so-called presidential investment envoys that Ramaphosa appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa.