Prominent Afrikaners have fiercely condemned US President Donald Trump’s refugee plan, which offers resettlement to white South Africans. Specifically, they label it a racist political stunt that misrepresents South Africa’s challenges.
For instance, Trump signed an executive order in February 2025, halting US aid to South Africa. This order claims white South Africans face “unjust racial discrimination.” Moreover, it prioritizes resettlement for Afrikaners through the US Refugee Admissions Program. However, police statistics show no higher violent crime rates for whites, debunking Trump’s narrative.
As a result, Afrikaner leaders have sharply criticised the proposal. AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel stated that emigration risks cultural identity. “The price is too high,” he emphasized. Additionally, civil society groups argue that Trump’s comments echo apartheid-era fearmongering, stirring division.
Leaders denounce racial framing
Furthermore, several high-profile South Africans accuse Trump of exploiting race for political gain. For example, businessman Johann Rupert called the portrayal of Afrikaners as refugees deeply offensive. Similarly, Freedom Front Plus leader Pieter Groenewald said it misrepresents legitimate safety concerns as racial persecution. “Afrikaners have a vital role in South Africa,” he added.
In response, South Africa’s Department of International Relations dismissed the plan as misguided and divisive. A spokesperson clarified that crime and inequality affect all citizens, not one racial group. Therefore, they urged the US not to use South Africa’s complexities to advance its agenda.
Historical wounds reopened
Meanwhile, analysts warn that Trump’s refugee plan risks inflaming old racial wounds. Specifically, the notion of rescuing white victims revives debates about privilege and identity in post-apartheid South Africa.
For instance, political analyst Tinyiko Maluleke noted that such language fuels global white nationalist narratives. Moreover, he stressed that South Africa’s real issues—poverty, corruption, and unemployment—cut across race, not just one group.
Despite the backlash, Trump’s administration insists the proposal defends freedom and Christian values. Nevertheless, many South Africans see it as a distraction aimed at winning votes through division.
