The US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, has announced his resignation effective January 10, 2025, following the election of President Donald Trump. His departure aligns with the standard procedure during a change in US presidential administration.
Reflecting on his tenure, Brigety highlighted progress in US-South Africa relations, particularly in trade and health collaboration. He praised initiatives like AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act), which facilitated trade and supported over 267,000 jobs in South Africa. He also noted joint efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, as well as strengthen COVID-19 vaccine production.
Concerns have arisen over the future of AGOA, which is set to expire in September 2025. Analysts fear the Trump administration may not renew the agreement, potentially impacting African economies reliant on preferential trade status with the US.
Brigety’s resignation follows a similar announcement by US Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, signaling a broader diplomatic reshuffle under the incoming administration.
