Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
09 February 2025 | 11:45 CAT

Diplomatic tensions between Pretoria and Washington are at an all time high after US President Donald Trump pulled the plug on USAID funding for South Africa’s HIV programmes, while also issuing harsh executive orders against SA over the expropriation act. (File-photo, IOL)

The latest executive order signed by former U.S. President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through South Africa and the international community. The controversial order, which seeks to cut U.S. aid to South Africa under the pretext of addressing alleged genocide against white farmers, has been widely condemned as a politically charged manoeuvre.

The order, reportedly influenced by claims from AfriForum, a South African lobby group, suggests that the South African government is engaged in land confiscations and targeted violence against white farmers. These claims have been strongly refuted by South African authorities and human rights organizations.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Tebogo Khaas of Public Interest South Africa argues that the executive order is a neocolonial tactic designed to undermine South Africa’s sovereignty. “Trump issued this order based on false pretences, fuelled by AfriForum’s claims of white genocide. The reality is that land reform policies in South Africa are constitutionally mandated to address historical injustices,” said Khaas.

The executive order calls for the repatriation of white South African farmers and the suspension of key aid programs, including HIV treatment initiatives. This decision is expected to have significant ramifications, particularly for the country’s healthcare sector. “While U.S. aid accounts for only 17% of South Africa’s total aid budget, its loss will undoubtedly impact vulnerable communities reliant on public health services,” Khaas added.

The move has also been linked to broader geopolitical interests. Signed shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, analysts suggest the order serves as retribution for South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). “This is a clear attempt to punish South Africa for supporting Palestine at the ICJ,” Khaas noted.

Amid growing tensions, South Africa faces critical decisions regarding its foreign policy and economic resilience. The order has sparked renewed calls for African nations to reduce dependency on Western aid and foster self-sufficiency.

The full implications of Trump’s executive order remain to be seen, but one thing is certain: South Africa will not take this lightly.

Listen to the full interview with Annisa Esscak on The Early Morning Sunday Show here.