Zambia Deepens Diplomatic Ties with South Africa as New High Commissioner Presents Credentials
Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with South Africa following the official accreditation of its new High Commissioner, Her Excellency Ms Grace Mutembo. In a formal ceremony held at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, Ms Mutembo presented her credentials to South African President His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa welcomed the High Commissioner and congratulated her on her appointment, acknowledging the longstanding friendship between the two nations. He emphasised that the relationship between South Africa and Zambia remains robust and continues to evolve positively.
“We have enjoyed decades of strong and warm relations with Zambia, built on shared history and mutual respect,” said President Ramaphosa. “We look forward to deepening this cooperation across various sectors.”
In her remarks, High Commissioner Mutembo expressed her gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed greetings from Zambian President His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema. She highlighted Zambia’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and promoting regional cooperation under the framework of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“Zambia remains committed to a coordinated approach to addressing regional challenges and increasing intra-African trade for a more stable and secure Southern African region,” she said.
Ms Mutembo noted that the historic ties between the two countries provide a solid foundation for future collaboration, particularly in sectors such as trade, health, infrastructure development, energy, mining, cultural exchange, and diplomacy.
She reiterated Zambia’s dedication to finalising the technical aspects of the Bi-National Commission between the two countries — a key mechanism designed to facilitate stronger cooperation and policy alignment.
Highlighting shared African values and aspirations, the High Commissioner said: “Our common history and mutual values give us a shared vision for African renewal and development.”
Ms Mutembo also extended Zambia’s congratulations to South Africa on assuming the G20 Presidency for the period from December 2024 to November 2025 and wished the country a successful summit of G20 Heads of State scheduled for November this year.
Appointed by President Hichilema, Ms Mutembo was officially sworn in as Zambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa on 22 September 2025.
