South Africa’s foreign ministry has rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims that the country is seizing land unfairly, following his announcement to cut off US funding. The government defended its newly passed Expropriation Act, stating that it aligns with constitutional principles and follows international norms on land reform.
Trump, in a Truth Social post on Sunday, accused the South African government of land confiscation, stating:
‘South Africa is confiscating land and treating certain classes of people VERY BADLY. I will be cutting off all future funding to South Africa until a full investigation of this situation has been completed!’
In response, the South African foreign ministry emphasised that the Expropriation Act is not exceptional, as similar laws exist in many democratic nations.
‘We trust President Trump’s advisors will use the investigative period to gain a thorough understanding of South Africa’s policies within the framework of a constitutional democracy,’ the ministry said in a statement, as reported by Reuters.
The statement further clarified that South Africa’s land reform is a legally regulated process, ensuring that land redistribution occurs in a fair and lawful manner.
South Africa’s Expropriation Act: what it means
The Expropriation Act, which was officially passed late January by the South African Parliament, allows for land expropriation without compensation under specific conditions. These include land that is:
- Abandoned or unused,
- Owned by the state and needed for public interest,
- Acquired through corrupt or illegal means.
The law is part of long-standing efforts to redress historical land inequalities from the apartheid era, where vast amounts of land were forcibly taken from Black South Africans.
Despite the law’s passage, concerns remain among international investors and landowners, with critics arguing that it could undermine property rights and discourage foreign investment.
Trump’s threat to cut US funding
Trump’s pledge to cut US aid could significantly impact diplomatic and economic ties between Washington and Pretoria. In 2023, the US provided $440 million in assistance to South Africa, supporting initiatives in:
- HIV/AIDS treatment programs (via PEPFAR),
- Trade and economic development,
- Security cooperation.
If funding is withdrawn, it could impact millions of South Africans who rely on US-backed health and economic programs.
South Africa: land reform is not unique
The foreign ministry’s statement also pointed out that land expropriation laws exist in other democracies, including:
- The United States, where eminent domain allows land seizures for public use,
- Canada and Australia, which have similar land redistribution policies.
South Africa argues that its approach follows international best practices, ensuring that all expropriations are legally justified and serve public interest.
As Trump’s administration reviews the situation, South Africa is expected to engage with US officials to clarify its land reform policies and reaffirm its commitment to legal governance.
Despite tensions, South Africa remains a key US trade partner, with major American companies invested in mining, technology, and infrastructure.
With Trump’s funding threat looming, analysts suggest diplomatic discussions may be necessary to prevent further economic fallout. South Africa, meanwhile, remains firm in its stance that land reform is necessary for historical justice and economic inclusivity.
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