His Excellency Colonel Johnny Sexwale presented his Letter of Credence to the Head of State of Samoa, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II at a presentation of credential ceremony held this morning at the Head of State’s official residence in Vailele accrediting His Excellency as the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Samoa.
Samoa and South Africa have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 22 March 1995. During the credential ceremony,, His Excellency emphasised the importance of strengthening diplomatic engagement, expanding trade and investment opportunities and promoting economic growth for the benefit of both countries. He further highlighted the potential to deepen cooperation in trade, sports, arts and culture while underscoring the need for continued collaboration in common interests.
In his responding remarks, the Head of State, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II stated that Samoa and South Africa relations have been underpinned by collaboration at the United Nations and the Commonwealth of Nations. His Highness expressed Samoa’s deep appreciation for South Africa’s support for Small Island Developing States particularly in advancing global recognition of the unique vulnerabilities faced by small island nations in the context of climate change. The Head of State expressed his confidence in H.E Sexwale’s appointment and his commitment to strengthen cooperation on matters of mutual interests to enhance the existing relations between our two countries.
The High Commissioner began his journey in the struggle against apartheid, joining the African National Congress (ANC) in 1975 and later received military training abroad attaining the rank of Military Commander of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) and subsequently served as an ANC diplomatic representative in Botswana. He has held advisory and leadership roles in government, the private sector, and the Reserve Force Council of the South African National Defence Force where he holds the rank of Colonel. His Excellency served as South Africa’s Ambassador to the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) and as Vice President of the African Diplomatic Corps. He currently serves as High Commissioner of South Africa to New Zealand with residence in Wellington. He is a recipient of the Loyal Service Medal and Twenty Years Service Medal; he holds a Diploma in Journalism and various professional qualifications. He speaks most South African languages, Portuguese, and intermediate French.
This is a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), Government of Samoa, on 19 February 2026.
