US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III presents his credentials to President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking the official start of his tenure in South Africa. Picture Credit: Facebook
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa — The US’s new envoy to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, has struck an unexpectedly warm and personal tone at the start of his diplomatic mission, declaring that he has already “fallen in love” with the country just two months after his arrival.
Bozell made the remarks on Wednesday as he formally presented his diplomatic credentials to President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking the official beginning of his tenure as Washington’s envoy to Pretoria.
The ceremony, held at the Sefako M. Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse, saw the ambassador hand over his Letters of Credence and Recall — a key diplomatic step that formally recognises his role.
Addressing the president directly, Bozell reflected on the impressions shared with him before his arrival — and how quickly they became reality.
“Mr President, before I arrived here, I cannot tell you how many people told me that, in short, I’ll fall in love with the country. It’s only taken two months, and I can confirm that has happened.”
He went on to highlight what he described as strong common ground between the United States and South Africa, pointing to shared democratic principles and mutual interests.
Bozell also made a notable reference to South Africa’s constitutional history, acknowledging Ramaphosa’s role in its development.
“Perhaps not enough people understand this, but you, your excellency, were the primary author of your constitution. You do understand that.
“It’s my goal and my time here to build on the shared interests, to build on self-respect, to build on our shared values, to take our two nations to places they’ve never been before. I believe in the art of the possible, and I believe it will happen.”
His remarks come at a time when relations between Pretoria and Washington have faced strain, with recent tensions linked to South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, as well as controversy following comments made by the ambassador on a local court ruling involving the “kill the boer” chant.
Despite these challenges, Wednesday’s ceremony underscored the continued importance of diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Bozell was one of 20 envoys — including those from Zimbabwe, Cuba and Denmark — who formally presented their credentials to President Ramaphosa.
