Poland in South Africa

The delegation was accompanied by the representatives of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria, Chargé d’Affaires, Jacek Chodorowicz and the Consul of the Republic of Poland, Robert Rusiecki. During their visit to South Africa, the delegation from the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with representatives of the Polish diaspora in the Western Cape, including those from the Polish Association in Cape Town and young professionals associated with the newly established Polish Success Club. They also laid flowers at the graves of Siberian refugees.

Minister Mościcka-Dendys appreciated the high level of activity and diversity of events, exhibitions, concerts, and films promoting Poland taking place in South Africa. She emphasized that cooperation with the Polish diaspora and Poles abroad is an integral element of Polish foreign policy, which, as part of its framework, takes into account changing geopolitical challenges and should respond to the country's needs. In the current circumstances, 35 years after the political and systemic transformation and 20 years after Poland's accession to the European Union, Polish diaspora policy will be based to a greater extent on partnership between the state and Polish communities. On 24 September 2025, speaking at the unveiling of a monument commemorating Polish children and their adult guardians who found safe refuge in Oudtshoorn in 1943, the Minister thanked everyone involved in the project, including Stefan Szewczuk, President of the Association of Siberian Deportees in South Africa, and representatives of the CP Nel Museum in Oudtshoorn.

The Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance, Dr M. Szpytma, emphasized that it is our duty to remember all our compatriots who remained forever on the long path leading to a free Poland. He noted that Poles are among the nations whose graves are scattered around the world, but these are not a testament to conquest or colonial expansion, but to the dramatic fate resulting from wars and repression.

The ceremony coincided with the annual celebration of cultural heritage in South Africa - Heritage Day.

Photos: Robert Rusiecki/Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Pretoria