“The United States and South Africa are family” - Celebrating the 4th of July
by Anisha Pemjee - TDS
4 July 2025
At the celebration of the United States of America’s 249th Independence Day in Pretoria, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie called the two countries family. Amid recent tensions, McKenzie said, “The US is not just a friendly country to South Africa, we are family.”
The presence of the myriad of American companies operating in South Africa at the celebration was an indication of the value of this relationship. US Chargé d’Affaires David Greene in his remarks said, “That’s why it matters that South Africa is the United States’ largest trading partner in Africa, and a key investment destination for American firms; and that over 600 U.S. companies operate here, employing hundreds of thousands and contributing to skills development, infrastructure, and innovation.”
Independence Day is a time to reflect on the ideals of the American story: liberty, democracy, opportunity, said Greene. “The right of each person to determine their own destiny. These are values that Americans hold dear, and ones that resonate here in South Africa—a nation with its own proud, living legacy of fighting for freedom and for fundamental rights for all citizens.
“Those shared ideals undergird a longstanding partnership—one that spans diplomacy, development, and security. And, of course, the pursuit of prosperity,” Greene said.
Greene emphasized that the two countries’ relationship extends well beyond commerce. “Of course, we do not live on bread alone, and our partnership goes beyond the balance sheet. It’s also about creativity, culture, and connection.”
Greene recognised that South Africa is a “continental leader in sports, the arts, and culture—three sectors that are the soul of a nation, define its global image, and are increasingly vital to its economy. From Soweto stages to sports arenas, from Cape Town filmmakers to Durban fashion designers, South Africa is setting trends and exporting talent across the globe.
“These industries also help power our commercial diplomacy. The creative economy generates jobs, empowers youth, and drives tourism and innovation. U.S. companies see South Africa not only as a market – but as a launchpad for cultural influence across the continent. And so I salute Minister McKenzie for championing these sectors and doing his part to raise South Africa’s global profile.”
Speaking about the much publicised recent tensions between the two countries McKenzie said the biggest test of any relationship is overcoming a crisis.
“His Excellency, President Donald Trump, opened the doors to the White House to hear our side of the recent controversy about farm murders and the claims of an impending genocide here.
“His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa didn’t need to do much but simply tell the truth and remind Potus that we are the children of Nelson Mandela. It is unthinkable that we can be a genocidal country. Many things might leave us, but Mandela’s teachings and leadership have shaped who we have become,” said McKenzie.
Greene highlighted that success depends on partnerships; government-to-government, business-to-business, and most importantly, people-to-people. “That’s why we’re so proud of the American community here in South Africa, and of the deep friendships built over generations. I hope that today is both a celebration of the United States and a celebration of those bonds.”
The Stars and Stripes Independence Day celebration, attended by diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and friends of the United States, reflected the rich diversity of a nation that embraces all nationalities. With warm and gracious hosts, classic American food and drinks, lively entertainment, and the hallmark pomp and ceremony, the event captured the spirit of July 4th—celebrating a remarkable and innovative country known for its inclusivity and dynamism.