Dana Brown, the deputy chief of mission at the United States embassy in South Africa, has announced her retirement from the foreign service, effective March. Her decision to retire was influenced by personal reasons, particularly her mother’s health, prompting her to return to the United States to spend more time with her family.
Upon Brown’s retirement, the US Department of State has appointed Mr. David Greene, the current deputy chief of mission in Abuja, Nigeria, to serve as chargé d’affaires at the US mission to South Africa, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in leadership.
Brown, who joined the foreign service in 2000, had a distinguished 27-year career dedicated to strengthening US partnerships globally. She took up her posting in South Africa in 2024 but decided to retire only six months into her tenure, amidst challenging diplomatic circumstances.
In February, the Trump administration declared diplomatic tensions with South Africa, suspending all donor aid and accusing the government of supporting terrorism and inciting racial violence. This led to a significant reshuffling within the US embassy in Pretoria, with Brown serving as acting chargé d’affaires following the resignation of the former US ambassador.
Speculation is rife about potential candidates to succeed Brown, with Joel Pollak, a prominent critic of the Ramaphosa administration, being considered for the role. Brown’s previous diplomatic postings include assignments in Portugal, Colombia, Kosovo, and Cuba.
The US embassy praised Brown’s leadership during her time in South Africa, noting that the mission thrived under her guidance. Her departure marks the end of a successful diplomatic chapter, as she looks forward to a well-deserved retirement and family time.
