Over 80 guests attended the event to honour supporters of the South Africa Focus Week and promote South African culture, wine, and tourism.

On 30 November 2024, the South African High Commission in Singapore hosted a Thanksgiving ceremony at the Official Residence. The event aimed to express gratitude to social partners who supported the South Africa Focus Week (SAFW) initiatives in 2023 and 2024. The celebration featured a wine-tasting experience and the Visit South Africa Campaign, spotlighting South African tourism, wine, and cuisine.

The gathering was attended by over 80 guests, including members of the diplomatic community, representatives from Chambers of Commerce, South Africans residing in Singapore, and local partners. Three South African-owned businesses—Baggie’s Butcher & Deli, South African Wine Cellar, and Message in Bottle—actively participated in the event.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Ms. Careshma Ramroop, the Programme Director. This was followed by an appreciation ceremony where Her Excellency, Ms. Madiepetsane Charlotte Lobe, the South African High Commissioner to Singapore, presented 14 tokens of appreciation to individuals and organisations for their contributions to SAFW 2024.

The event also showcased South African wines. Mr. Misizwe Mtshali from South African Wine Cellar and Mr. Mark du Plessis from Message in Bottle delivered engaging presentations, highlighting South Africa’s rich winemaking heritage and its reputation as a leading global wine producer. Guests were encouraged to explore South Africa’s vineyards and farms in the Western Cape for wine tours and other tourist activities.

Baggie’s Butcher & Deli added a gastronomic dimension to the event by serving traditional South African delicacies such as biltong and other cured and fresh meats, giving attendees a taste of authentic South African flavours. This culinary experience underscored the potential for enhanced market access for South African products in Singapore.

The Thanksgiving ceremony successfully celebrated the enduring partnerships that have supported the South African High Commission’s initiatives and further strengthened cultural and economic ties between South Africa and Singapore.

South African High Commission, Singapore