US President Donald Trump accepted the credentials of South Africa’s new ambassador, Roelf Meyer, at the White House on May 22, 2026. South African media said Meyer described the ceremony as warm and formal.
US President Donald Trump has accepted the credentials of South Africa’s new ambassador to the United States, Roelf Meyer, at the White House.
The ceremony took place on May 22, 2026, formally accrediting Meyer as South Africa’s envoy in Washington. South African media reported that he described the reception as warm and formal.
The accreditation marks the start of Meyer’s tenure at a sensitive moment in bilateral relations. South Africa has said stabilising ties with the US is a priority.
Meyer was appointed ambassador by President Cyril Ramaphosa on April 15, 2026.
What happens next
With the credentials now accepted, Meyer can begin his full diplomatic role in Washington. The next developments to watch are any formal readouts from South African officials, the White House or the US State Department on the meeting and the wider state of relations between the two countries.
Revision note
Initial automated publication.