Brent Bozell III vows to boost ties between US and South Africa (VIDEO)

US ambassador to South Africa Brent Bozell handed copies of his letters of credence to the department’s Acting Chief of State Protocol, Clayson Monyela. Picture: Dirco Newly appointed US ambassador to South Africa, Brent Bozell III, says his first task is to strengthen relations between Pretoria and Washington. US President Donald Trump’s pick for ambassador arrived in the country last week to officially take up his post amid simmering tensions between the two countries.

Bozell III was formally sworn in as the US ambassador-designate to South Africa in January 2026. Earlier this week, Bozell presented his credentials to the government as the new US ambassador. Thenew ambassador’s appointmenttakes place against the backdrop of strained relations between the US and South Africa, tensions that have persisted since Trump returned to office.

In a video message sent toThe Citizen, Bozell said as his country marks 250 years of independence, he is reminded that liberty, justice and human dignity are not just American ideals, they are universal aspirations. “I look forward to working with South African leaders, innovators and communities to amplify what is best in building our nations. More than 500 American companies are proudly invested in South Africa’s growth.

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“Thousands of Americans leave and work here, drawn by this country’s energy and potential. We face challenges, yes, and some are serious, but strong relationships are not built on those challenges but on the power of shared purpose,” Bozell said. Bozell said the US and South Africa stand at a “moment of promise”.

“Where cooperation can unlock tremendous growth and stability and expanded opportunity. We will work constructively where our interests align and where our common values, freedom, fairness and the rule of law light the path ahead.”

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