King Charles III has appointed new ambassadors to represent the United Kingdom in South Sudan and Zimbabwe, with both diplomats set to assume their roles in the latter part of 2026.
New Ambassador to South Sudan
Rebecca Fabrizi, currently the Deputy Director for Africa at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), will succeed David Ashley as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Fabrizi is expected to take up the post in October 2026.
David Ashley has served as the UK Ambassador to South Sudan since January 2025. Fabrizi brings a wealth of experience, having previously acted as High Commissioner to Malawi and served as the FCDO’s Special Envoy for Small Island Developing States. She has also led the Caribbean and Small Island Developing States Department and managed the Joint Casework Unit in Afghanistan.
New Ambassador to Zimbabwe
Gill Lever OBE has been appointed as the new Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe, replacing Peter Vowles who will be reassigned within the Diplomatic Service. Lever will begin her assignment in September 2026.
