AMCHAM SOUTH AFRICA HOSTED THEIR ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER UNDER THE THEME “SHARED TABLE, SHARED FUTURE”
The American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa (AmCham) hosted its annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, at the Polo Room, Inanda Club. This year’s theme, “Shared Tables, Shared Futures” reflected the spirit of partnership, collaboration, and shared prosperity that continues to anchor the longstanding economic relationship between South Africa and the United States.
AmCham was honoured to welcome Dr Alistair Ruiters from The Presidency—a former Director-General of the Department of Trade and Industry with extensive experience in public policy, industrial development, and national economic reform—who delivered the keynote address.
The evening also saw addresses being made by the Chamber President Mr Kuseni Dlamini and the US Charge D’Affaires Mr Marc Dillard.
The evening’s programme featured Jason Goliath as Master of Ceremonies, bringing warmth and energy to the proceedings. Musical performances by B & B and the renowned Mzansi Youth Choir and Field band Foundation added vibrancy and celebration to the event, creating an atmosphere that embodied unity and shared purpose. As C EO Michelle Constant noted, “The aim was to have fun after a long year, and I think we achieved that, and much more.”
Key messages throughout the evening aimed at fostering a positive and productive economic dialogue between the two nations, even during geopolitically challenging times. Central to the discussions was the enduring strength and resilience of the U.S.–South Africa economic relationship — a partnership that continues to offer significant value for investors through South Africa’s strong market potential, regional connectivity, and diversified economy.
The evening saw Delta Air Lines give away two Premium Economy return tickets to the United States to one lucky guest. In the spirit of shared purpose, attendees were also invited to take a pledge and share it with all in attendance on the AmCham Pledge Wall, reinforcing the collective commitment to collaboration and shared prosperity.
The South African government’s commitment to cultivating a stable, predictable, and competitive business environment was underscored, with a focus on shared economic growth, inclusive development, and expanding opportunities for U.S. investors. AmCham also reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration between its members, South Africa and the United States, to drive skills development, industrial capacity, and job creation. Deeper partnership across sectors such as technology, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture was encouraged, given the private sector’s vital role in accelerating innovation and supporting national economic recovery.
Recent positive developments — including the favourable reception of the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, a sovereign investment upgrade, removal from the grey list, and reforms advanced through Operation Vulindlela — were highlighted as indicators of South Africa’s progress.
With over 600 U.S. companies operating in South Africa and AmCham’s 200+ members collectively employing more than 250,000 people, the multiplier effect across supply chains and ESG foundations remained substantial, contributing meaningfully to growth, development, and long-term stability.
The successful outcomes of the G20 and B20 further positioned South Africa, Southern Africa, and the broader continent as dynamic hubs of global engagement, presenting significant opportunities for U.S. and South African partners.
To sustain this momentum, strengthened local government capabilities and supportive policies for SMMEs and entrepreneurship were emphasized as essential. AmCham reiterated its commitment to working alongside government and industry to advance these priorities under the premise of a shared future built at a shared table.
The event was supported by the American International School of Johannesburg, Amazon, Breinstorm Brand Architects, Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, ENS, Fragomen, Oracle and RMB.
ENDS
About The American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa
The American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa represents U.S. and SA business interests, facilitating investment, bilateral trade, and impactful business exchanges that drive economic and social prosperity in South Africa. American companies play a vital role in the South African economy as major employers and contributors to development. With the U.S. as South Africa’s largest portfolio investor and the third-largest overall trading partner, AmCham remains committed to fostering enduring partnerships that benefit both nations.