by Marion Smith
The residence of the Ambassador of Slovakia, H.E. Vladimir Gracz, was the setting for a special afternoon of celebration, friendship and reflection as Slovakia marked its National Day alongside a farewell reception for the Ambassador.
South Africa was represented by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Rosemary Nokuzola Capa, who joined members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives, friends of Slovakia and members of the Slovak community for the occasion.
The afternoon celebrated not only Slovakia’s national identity and its relationship with South Africa, but also Ambassador Gracz’s diplomatic journey and the friendships he has built during his time in the country.
A highlight of the afternoon was a musical performance by renowned South African panpipe and panflute player Ryan Walt. Walt began his professional career in 1994 and has enjoyed considerable success in South Africa, selling more than 150,000 recordings and earning two gold albums. His performance added a distinctly South African cultural touch to an afternoon celebrating the connections between two nations.
In his farewell remarks, Ambassador Gracz spoke passionately about the importance of culture in diplomacy and the role that cultural exchanges play in bringing countries and their people closer together.
He reflected on his efforts during his diplomatic service to showcase Slovak culture in South Africa, including exhibitions and concerts.
“One of the most important tasks of diplomacy is to build these bridges between our nations,” he said, highlighting the importance of bringing Slovak culture to South Africa and creating opportunities for South Africans to discover more about Slovakia.
The Ambassador also shared a personal collection of artwork by a Slovak artist, some of which he had owned and exhibited internationally for more than two decades. The paintings had travelled with him through countries including Argentina, Paraguay and Spain before eventually making their way to Pretoria.
For Ambassador Gracz, the artworks represented more than simply pieces of art. They were a way of bringing a part of Slovak culture with him wherever his diplomatic career took him.
“I am very happy that I could bring part of Slovak culture here,” he said.
Reflecting on his arrival in South Africa, Ambassador Gracz recalled that his appointment initially came as a surprise. Having had little previous connection with Africa, he nevertheless quickly developed a deep affection for the country.
He described South Africa as a country he embraced from his first moments here and spoke warmly about the extensive travelling he undertook during his posting.
From Cape Town and the West Coast to the Garden Route, Limpopo and Mpumalanga, he made a point of experiencing South Africa beyond Pretoria and its diplomatic circles.
The Ambassador further reflected on the economic relationship between Slovakia and South Africa, speaking about bilateral trade and the presence of Slovak businesses operating in South Africa. His comments highlighted the importance of strengthening commercial links alongside the cultural and diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
As he prepares to leave South Africa, Ambassador Gracz’s farewell message became increasingly personal.
He thanked members of the diplomatic community, government representatives, friends and colleagues for the support and friendship they had shown him throughout his posting.
“I appreciate a lot that you were part of my life here,” he said, expressing his gratitude to those who had shared his South African journey.
His final words captured the sentiment of the afternoon: while he may be leaving South Africa, the friendships he formed will travel with him.
“I am leaving you, but I am taking you with my heart.”
The reception was therefore more than a National Day celebration or a farewell. It was a reflection of the enduring role of diplomacy, creating bridges between countries through culture, trade, friendship and shared experiences.
As Ambassador Gracz begins his next chapter, he leaves South Africa with memories of a country he came to embrace, and with the friendships and cultural connections he helped strengthen between Slovakia and South Africa.
