Former Minister Ayanda Dlodlo Appointed South Africa’s Ambassador To France
Former State Security Minister Ayanda Dlodlo has been appointed as South Africa’s ambassador-designate to France, filling the diplomatic post left vacant following the death of former ambassador Nathi Mthethwa last year.
Her appointment comes ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s working visit to France later this week, during which he is expected to meet French President Emmanuel Macron for bilateral talks focused on strengthening political, economic and trade relations between the two countries.
Dlodlo, 63, succeeds Mthethwa, who died in Paris on 2 October 2025 after falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
French authorities concluded that Mthethwa’s death was the result of suicide after investigators found no evidence of foul play. According to reports at the time, the window of his hotel room had been forced open, with a pair of scissors recovered at the scene.
The Paris prosecutor’s office said its investigation found no indication that a third party was involved in the incident.
However, Mthethwa’s family has consistently disputed those findings, rejecting the conclusion that he died by suicide and questioning the circumstances surrounding his death.
Before his diplomatic appointment, Mthethwa served as Minister of Arts and Culture from 2014 to 2023, having previously held the position of Minister of Police between 2008 and 2014.
Dlodlo brings extensive government experience to her new diplomatic role, having previously served as Minister of Public Service and Administration as well as Minister of State Security.