The United States is cutting all federal funding to South Africa, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday. The decision marks a significant shift in US-South Africa relations, with Trump citing safety concerns for South African farmers as a key factor in his move.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that, beyond ending financial aid, his administration would also offer South African farmers and their families a “rapid pathway to Citizenship” if they seek refuge in the US due to safety concerns. “This process will begin immediately,” he wrote, signaling an urgent implementation of the policy.
According to US government data, foreign assistance commitments to South Africa totaled $323.4 million in 2024. The sudden withdrawal of these funds could impact various sectors in the country, including healthcare, education, and economic development programs that rely on US support.
Trump’s decision comes amid longstanding debates over land reforms and farm attacks in South Africa, which have been a point of concern among conservative groups in the US. The move is expected to draw both support and criticism, as it touches on issues of foreign aid, immigration, and international relations.
The South African government has yet to respond to the announcement, and it remains unclear how the policy will be implemented in practice.
Melissa Enoch
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