Ambassador Reuben E. Brigety II will step down from his role as U.S. Ambassador to South Africa on January 10, 2025. His departure aligns with standard diplomatic transitions during changes in presidential administration.
Brigety’s career spans impressive academic and diplomatic achievements. A Distinguished Midshipman Graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in 1995, he earned his Ph.D. in international relations from Cambridge University. Before his ambassadorship, he led as Vice Chancellor at the University of the South and Dean of George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs.
His diplomatic journey included representing the U.S. at the African Union and the UN Economic Commission for Africa. He brought valuable experience from his roles as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in both African Affairs and Population, Refugees, and Migration bureaus.
During his ambassadorship, U.S.-South Africa relations flourished through concrete achievements. Trade initiatives through AGOA created over 267,000 South African jobs across automotive, minerals, chemicals, agricultural, and transportation sectors.
The health partnership between both countries yielded tangible results. Joint efforts through PEPFAR tackled HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, while COVID-19 collaboration enhanced vaccine manufacturing capabilities across South Africa.
Educational partnerships blossomed under his watch. More than 120 universities and colleges established connections, with R54 million funding research and academic exchanges. The mission engaged 210,000 young South Africans in leadership, entrepreneurship, and technology programs, while helping students secure R42 million in scholarships.
In March 2024, Brigety launched Atlanta Phambili, connecting Atlanta and South Africa through civil rights heritage, creative industries, and economic development. This initiative spawned partnerships like the sister airport agreement between Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and Airports Company South Africa.
Brigety’s dedication to public service extends beyond his diplomatic role. His experience includes teaching at George Mason University and American University, researching with Human Rights Watch in Afghanistan and Iraq, and serving as a U.S. naval officer.
He shares his life with Dr. Leelie Selassie and their two sons. As a Life Member of the Council of Foreign Relations and Fellow of the American Academy of Diplomacy, Brigety continues to contribute to international relations discourse.
In his departure statement, Brigety expressed gratitude to South Africa’s government, people, and his Mission team for their collaborative spirit in strengthening U.S.-South Africa relations.
