31/07/2026
My dearest Yandi,
Congratulations on your appointment as South Africa’s Ambassador to France (nod to Gov👌🏾). Few people carry our nation’s colours with the quiet strength, intellectual rigour and unwavering integrity that have become your hallmark throughout your years of public service. You have served South Africa with diligence, grace and an unshakable ethical compass, often choosing principle over convenience and country over self. Your leadership has always reflected a deep respect for our Constitution, for public service, and for the dignity of those whom our democracy exists to serve.
As you begin this important diplomatic chapter, I have no doubt that France will come to know the remarkable woman we have long admired—one whose wisdom is matched only by her humility, whose discipline is equalled only by her humanity.
May this new season bring you every opportunity to strengthen the bonds between our two great nations & may there be many moments of witnessing your brilliance in action. You leave for Paris carrying not only the flag of South Africa, but also the confidence and affection of so many of us who have witnessed your steadfast contribution to our country’s journey. Au revoir my sister. We are immensely proud of you, and I know you will serve with the same honour and distinction that have defined every chapter of your life. I love you always champion of the underdog, flower of the revolution, Your Excellency…