An international relations expert, Moses Kau, has clarified that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s daughter accompanied him on a working visit to the Vatican City in the capacity of an Official Consort, a role permitted by the Presidential Handbook. Kau explained that the guidelines allow for a head of state to be accompanied by a family member on official international travel, noting that former President Nelson Mandela’s daughters had previously fulfilled similar functions.
President Ramaphosa undertook the visit on November 7, 2025, to discuss matters of mutual interest with Pope Leo XIV, including humanitarian aid and climate justice. The Presidency stated the trip aimed to strengthen diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Holy See. Public reaction to the inclusion of the president’s daughter has been mixed, with some social media users questioning the use of public funds for a family member.
President Ramaphosa undertook the visit on November 7, 2025, to discuss matters of mutual interest with Pope Leo XIV, including humanitarian aid and climate justice. The Presidency stated the trip aimed to strengthen diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Holy See. Public reaction to the inclusion of the president’s daughter has been mixed, with some social media users questioning the use of public funds for a family member.
