South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sharif Fathy, visited the Grand Egyptian Museum and Giza Pyramids on Monday, October 5, 2026. The visit aimed to strengthen cultural ties between Egypt and South Africa. Ramaphosa was briefed on the museum's vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including those of King Tutankhamun. The tour included the museum's exterior, main hall, and grand staircase.
During the visit, Ramaphosa expressed his admiration for several artifacts, including a statue of King Ramses II in the main hall. He was impressed by the statue's massive size and intricate details. The President also stopped in front of the suspended obelisk and several King Tutankhamun artifacts, including coffins, war chariots, and shields. Dr. Ahmed Ghneim, CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Egyptian Ambassador to South Africa Ahmed Ali Sharif accompanied Ramaphosa on the tour.
Ramaphosa praised the museum's display, highlighting Egypt's rich ancient civilization and its advancements in architecture, art, and industry. He commended the efforts to preserve Egypt's archaeological heritage and present it in a modern way to visitors. The President also signed the museum's visitor book, expressing his appreciation for the visit and his positive impression of the museum.
Following the museum visit, Ramaphosa proceeded to the Giza Pyramids, where he was briefened on the history of the pyramids. He visited the Great Pyramid of Giza from the inside, marveling at its massive construction and engineering precision. The tour included a visit to the Solar Boat Museum and the Sphinx, where Ramaphosa listened to an explanation of the monument's history and significance.
The visit is part of Ramaphosa's official program in Egypt, underscoring the importance of Egypt's archaeological sites in hosting high-profile visitors and official delegations worldwide. The tour highlighted the strong cultural ties between Egypt and South Africa. Egyptian authorities strive to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between the two nations.
The Grand Egyptian Museum, set to open soon, will showcase the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts ever assembled. The museum's collection includes over 100,000 artifacts, including those of King Tutankhamun, which are displayed in a comprehensive exhibit. The museum's architecture and design reflect Egypt's rich cultural heritage.
The visit concluded with Ramaphosa expressing his appreciation for Egypt's rich history and culture. The President's visit to Egypt's historic sites demonstrates the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and South Africa. The two countries aim to strengthen cooperation in various fields, including tourism, culture, and education.
Key points
- The visit highlights Egypt's rich cultural heritage and its significance in promoting cultural exchange between nations.
- The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open soon, showcasing the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts ever assembled.
- The visit demonstrates the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and South Africa, with a focus on promoting cooperation in various fields.
