President Donald Trump has signed an executive order cutting off U.S. foreign aid to South Africa, citing racial land expropriation, diplomatic disputes, and ties between Pretoria and adversarial nations.
The order also prioritizes Afrikaner refugees for resettlement in the U.S., escalating tensions between the two nations.
“They are doing terrible things, horrible things, and we won’t support it,” Trump stated from the White House.
But this decision has consequences beyond politics—it could reshape alliances, impact South Africa’s economy, and fuel global debates on land rights and racial equity.
What Is the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024?
The Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 allows the South African government to seize agricultural land from Afrikaner farmers without compensation. The government claims it is necessary to address historical land injustices, but critics—including the U.S.—call it state-backed discrimination.
Jan van der Merwe, a third-generation farmer in Free State, says he feels abandoned.
“My grandfather built this farm from nothing, and now they say we don’t belong here? We’ve had death threats, our cattle poisoned, fences burned.”
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Similar farm seizures and violent attacks have been widely reported in recent months.
Why Is the U.S. Cutting Aid?
The executive order is about more than just land reform. The U.S. accuses South Africa of undermining Western alliances through diplomatic actions and international alignments.
Read: Tensions Escalate Over Goma Conflict as Rwanda and South Africa Trade Accusations
Support for Hamas Over Israel
South Africa’s lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of genocide, has angered Washington.
A White House source told The Daily Whistle: “Pretoria is siding with terrorists instead of condemning Hamas.”
Strengthening Ties With Iran
The U.S. sees South Africa’s economic and military cooperation with Iran as a national security threat.
The BRICS Factor
South Africa’s deepening role in BRICS (with China, Russia, and Iran) signals a shift away from U.S. influence.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he will boycott the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, stating:
Read: Trump Threatens BRICS with 100% Tariffs Over Plans to Rival US Dollar
“Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote ‘solidarity, equality, & sustainability.’ In other words: DEI and climate change. My job is to advance America’s national interests, not support anti-Americanism.”
Economic Fallout: Will South Africa Suffer?
With U.S. aid cut, South Africa could face funding losses for infrastructure and development projects. The weakening Rand may lead to rising investor concerns over political risks. Additionally, South Africa could face potential U.S. trade restrictions, impacting its global market position.
Read: Obama Slams Trump’s Plan to Scrap USAID – Millions at Risk
Dr. Sipho Mkhize, an international relations analyst, warns that Washington’s pressure could either force policy changes or push Pretoria further into the arms of China and Russia.
What Happens Next?
The U.S. has officially halted all non-humanitarian aid to South Africa. Afrikaner refugee resettlement is now a priority in the U.S., raising concerns about South Africa’s image on the global stage. Meanwhile, Pretoria may seek stronger economic and political ties with China and Russia as alternative partners.
Minister of Agriculture Thoko Didiza responded defiantly, stating that South Africa is a sovereign nation and will not be bullied into abandoning economic reforms that benefit the majority.
FAQs
Why is the U.S. cutting aid to South Africa?
The U.S. opposes South Africa’s land expropriation policies and accuses the government of anti-Western actions, including siding with Hamas and strengthening ties with Iran.
What is the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024?
It allows the South African government to seize white-owned farmland without compensation, allegedly to address apartheid-era land imbalances.
How will this affect South Africa’s economy?
The loss of U.S. aid and potential trade restrictions could lead to higher economic uncertainty, currency devaluation, and reduced foreign investment.
Will South Africa align more with China and Russia?
Experts predict South Africa will seek alternative economic partnerships, especially within BRICS.
Final Thoughts: Is This a Breaking Point for U.S.-South Africa Relations?
For now, one thing is certain: U.S.-South Africa relations have reached their lowest point in decades.
Would you support South Africa’s land reform policies? Comment below and share your thoughts?
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