SA Chamber of Commerce in the USA ‘aims to strengthen ties between the countries’

In an age where public narratives are often shaped by snippets, headlines and interpretations, I feel compelled to provide a fuller account of the work I do and the principles that guide me. 

I do so in response to a recent article in Daily Maverick titled, “Neil Diamond, the man with a list of 67,000 Afrikaner refugee wannabes, is an old ANC comrade.” 

Read more: Neil Diamond, the man with a list of 67,000 Afrikaner refugee wannabes, is an old ANC comrade

The South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA (Saccusa) is a non-partisan, independent organisation committed to strengthening economic, trade and investment ties between South Africa and the United States.

It was originally established in New York in the mid-80s by expats who worked for South African companies in the United States. For several years, I have been privileged to lead Saccusa. Our mission is grounded in a belief that collaboration, not conflict, is the best path to opportunity for entrepreneurs, professionals and communities across both countries. 

The recent portrayal of my work and affiliations, particularly in this publication, does not reflect the reality or the intent of what Saccusa represents. Instead of offering readers a balanced view, it framed my role through a limited and often politically coloured lens, suggesting that associations with certain individuals imply allegiance or intent. This is simply not the case. 

As part of my duties, I interact with a broad spectrum of leaders, government officials, ministers, diplomats, entrepreneurs and civil society figures across political and ideological lines. These interactions are not endorsements; they are part of a necessary and constructive process of economic diplomacy. Saccusa does not operate along political fault lines. Our work is focused on commercial outcomes, policy engagement and bridging a gap that exists due to the absence of formal South African trade representation in the United States.

It is unfortunate that, instead of highlighting the broader impact of our work, such as supporting access to Agoa, facilitating bilateral dialogues and promoting investment in job-creating industries, recent coverage has chosen to focus almost entirely on historic episodes, without reference to the progress or contributions made since. 

Public service, business and leadership in the diaspora space are never one-dimensional. Like so many South Africans, my journey has included its share of both triumphs and lessons. What has remained consistent is my commitment to purpose, to professionalism and to leaving a meaningful impact wherever I have the opportunity to serve. 

The article misrepresents key facts about me, painting an inaccurate picture of my affiliations and business dealings, and represents them in a way that suggests impropriety on my part and omits crucial facts. 

Furthermore, the article greatly distorts and/or inaccurately records the chronology of events insofar as it relates to my personal and/or public endeavours, in what one can perceive as an attempt to revive matters that have been conclusively adjudicated in the appropriate legal forums. My public service and/or endeavours do not diminish my right to protect my reputation. Any assertion to the contrary is deceptive.

I do not write this piece in anger, but with the hope that it creates space for greater fairness. The story of economic diplomacy between South Africa and the United States is not a personal story, it is a national imperative. It deserves to be told in its full context, without omission or distortion, and with the public interest as its guiding light. 

As President of Saccusa, I remain committed to building partnerships that uplift businesses, connect communities, and restore confidence in the potential of international collaboration. I hope that we can move beyond character judgments and instead focus on the real work at hand, bridging economies, generating opportunity and representing South African excellence on the global stage. DM