South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has fiercely defended his government’s land policy, asserting that it should not be a matter of concern for the United States.
This declaration came in a post on X on the 3rd of February, 2025, following a threat from former President Donald Trump to cut all future funding to South Africa.
Recall that Trump had previously announced plans to halt future financial assistance due to concerns over the alleged mistreatment of certain groups outlined in the country’s Expropriation Act.
The expropriation legislation allows the South African government to seize land without compensation, a move that Trump condemned, declaring, “The United States won’t stand for it.”
In response, Ramaphosa emphasized that the Expropriation Act is a lawful measure designed to ensure equitable land access and correct historical injustices.
He reaffirmed that South Africa is a constitutional democracy, grounded in the principles of justice, equality, and the rule of law.
Ramaphosa also clarified that, aside from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which covers 17 percent of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS program, there is no other U.S. funding for the country.
He explained that the Expropriation Act is not a tool for land confiscation, but part of the broader framework of expropriation laws, similar to those in the U.S. and other countries, which balance public land use and the protection of property rights.
“We look forward to engaging with the Trump administration on our land reform policy and other matters of mutual interest. Through these discussions, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and come to a shared perspective on these issues,” he stated.
He further reiterated that the United States remains a vital strategic and trade partner for South Africa, highlighting that outside of PEPFAR, no other U.S. financial support is received.