By Jima Francis
JUBA, South Sudan-South Africa’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan, Adv. Mahlodi S. Muofhe, has paid tribute to outgoing Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Mthokozisi Twala following the completion of his four-year diplomatic assignment in Juba.
Lt-Col Twala, a member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), concluded his tour of duty in South Sudan on 30 September 2026 and returned to South Africa after four years of service at the South African Embassy in Juba.
Ambassador Muofhe described Twala’s tenure as one marked by professionalism, diligence and commitment to strengthening relations between South Africa and South Sudan.
“Lieutenant Colonel Mthokozisi Twala represented South Africa and our Embassy in the Republic of South Sudan with distinction during his four years of service,” Ambassador Muofhe said.
He said the outgoing Defence Attaché’s regular reports and engagement contributed to the Embassy’s understanding of South Sudan and supported its work during his assignment.
“The periodic reports he furnished us with informed us more about this beautiful country, the Republic of South Sudan, which those of us at the South African Embassy have come to regard as our second home,” Muofhe said.
The Ambassador reflected on the close working relationship that developed among Embassy staff over the four-year period, saying their shared responsibilities created a strong sense of unity.
“We became a solid family during those four years. We forged a bond that brought us together as one team and enabled us to deliver on the responsibilities that South Africa entrusted to us in the Republic of South Sudan,” he said.
Muofhe said Twala’s departure also served as a reminder of the limited tenure of diplomatic assignments, noting that the demands of diplomatic work can make four years pass quickly.
“When we saluted each other goodbye in my office at the Embassy, it was a significant moment. It truly dawned on me that he had completed his tenure when he later called to inform me that he had landed safely at OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa,” Muofhe said.
The Ambassador credited Twala with contributing to South Africa’s engagement with South Sudan throughout his posting.
“You executed your tenure of duty with exceptional professionalism and diligence as our Defence Attaché. You advanced the interests of South Africa while contributing positively to our relationship with the Republic of South Sudan,” he said.
Muofhe said relations between South Africa and South Sudan have continued to develop and expressed appreciation for Twala’s contribution during his posting.
“The bond between South Africa and the Republic of South Sudan continues to grow stronger. Lieutenant Colonel Twala served our country well, and we are immensely proud of the positive contribution he made during his time in South Sudan,” Ambassador Muofhe said.
He concluded by wishing the outgoing Defence Attaché well as he begins the next chapter of his career in South Africa.
“We salute you, Lieutenant Colonel Mthokozisi Twala, and wish you well back home in South Africa,” Muofhe said.