by Marion Smith
The diplomatic community in Pretoria recently came together for a special luncheon celebrating two remarkable women whose careers have made a lasting contribution to African diplomacy: Ambassador Maud Dlomo and Her Excellency Stella Ndau, Ambassador of the Republic of Malawi to the Republic of South Africa.
Hosted at Sebulé Grill Restaurant at the African Pride Hotel, the luncheon was a heartfelt celebration of gratitude, friendship and achievement, bringing together more than 30 guests to honour two highly respected and much-loved members of the diplomatic community.
The event was hosted by Mr Jacques Baril, Chairman of Africa Rising Global, in collaboration with H.E. Ambassador André Nzapayeke, Ambassador of the Central African Republic and Dean of the African Heads of Missions.
Under the banner of Africa Rising Global, the gathering provided an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary journeys of two women whose dedication, leadership and commitment to Africa have helped shape the continent’s diplomatic landscape.
Ambassador Maud Dlomo and Ambassador Stella Ndau have each carved out distinguished careers in international relations, representing not only their respective countries but also the values of dialogue, cooperation and African solidarity.
The luncheon was more than a formal diplomatic gathering. It was a personal expression of appreciation from colleagues, friends and members of the diplomatic community who have had the privilege of working alongside, engaging with and learning from these two accomplished stateswomen.
In his role as Dean of the African Heads of Missions, Ambassador André Nzapayeke has been an important figure in bringing African diplomatic missions together and strengthening relationships within the diplomatic community. His collaboration with Africa Rising Global helped create an occasion where professional achievements could be celebrated alongside the personal relationships that make diplomacy meaningful.
The atmosphere at Sebulé Grill was one of warmth and camaraderie, with guests sharing memories, reflections and words of appreciation for the two women being honoured.
Diplomacy is often associated with official meetings, negotiations and formal ceremonies. Yet behind those responsibilities are individuals who dedicate years of their lives to building bridges between nations. Events such as this luncheon offer a rare opportunity to pause and acknowledge those contributions.
For the more than 30 guests in attendance, the luncheon was therefore a chance to say thank you, not simply for the positions Ambassador Dlomo and Ambassador Ndau have held, but for the relationships they have built and the example they have set.
Their journeys represent the important role women continue to play in African diplomacy and international relations. Through leadership, resilience, professionalism and grace, they have demonstrated that diplomacy is ultimately about people: creating understanding, fostering partnerships and leaving a positive legacy.
The celebration also highlighted the strength of the diplomatic community in Pretoria, where ambassadors and representatives from across Africa regularly come together to support one another and promote closer relations between their countries.
As the luncheon drew to a close, the message from those gathered was clear: the contributions of Ambassador Maud Dlomo and Ambassador Stella Ndau have not gone unnoticed.
It was a celebration of two extraordinary women, two distinguished diplomatic journeys and the enduring friendships forged through a shared commitment to Africa.
A celebration of gratitude. A celebration of achievement. And, above all, a celebration of two remarkable African stateswomen.
