Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, received copies of the credentials of South Africa’s new High Commissioner-designate. South Africa last had a High Commissioner serving in Rwanda in 2024.
Tinyiko George Hlungwane was received by Minister Nduhungirehe on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The ministry said: “Minister Nduhungirehe also received copies of letters of credence of H.E. Tinyiko George Hlungwane, High Commissioner-Designate of the Republic of South Africa to Rwanda.”
The South African diplomat was appointed to represent his country in Rwanda nearly two years after the previous High Commissioner completed his term.
Towards the end of 2024, Mandisi Bongani Mabuto Mpahlwa completed his term as South Africa’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, a position he had held since 2020.
That was the last time South Africa had a High Commissioner serving in Rwanda. The two countries have experienced challenges in their relations but continue working to restore bilateral ties.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, visited South Africa in June this year, where he held talks with his counterpart, Ronald Lamola, aimed at advancing efforts to restore relations between the two countries.
One outcome of those discussions was South Africa’s decision to resume issuing visas to Rwandans holding ordinary passports. The service was suspended in March 2023.
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