Donald Trump’s sustained interest in South Africa, particularly around the issue of white Afrikaners, ties into a broader narrative popular among segments of the American far-right: the debunked “white genocide” conspiracy theory. This theory falsely claims that white South Africans, especially farmers, are being systematically targeted and exterminated by the post-apartheid government.
In recent years, Trump has amplified these narratives by:
Tweeting in 2018 that he had directed his Secretary of State to look into the “large-scale killing of farmers” in South Africa, a claim not supported by crime statistics or credible international watchdogs.
Granting refugee status in 2025 to 49 white Afrikaners, despite the absence of clear evidence that they face targeted persecution based on race.
Cutting U.S. aid to South Africa and threatening to boycott diplomatic meetings, signaling a deliberate cooling of relations over the perceived mistreatment of white minorities.
Why the Obsession?
Trump’s stance appeals to a subset of his political base that views global events through a racialized lens. This base, which includes white nationalist and alt-right groups, has long championed the idea of a white population under siege in South Africa as a cautionary tale about multiculturalism, immigration, and what they view as “anti-white” policies.
His administration’s decision to grant asylum to white South Africans reflects ideological alignment with these groups and serves as a culture war talking point. It also distracts from more complex issues within South Africa, such as economic inequality, land reform, and high crime rates, none of which are exclusive to or targeted against white citizens.
The Bigger Picture
This fixation is not about humanitarian concern—it’s political theater. By spotlighting white South Africans, Trump bolsters a narrative of white victimhood that fuels nativist sentiment at home. It also aligns with a broader strategy of reframing international human rights issues to fit a domestic political agenda.
To explore this issue further, you can watch the Al Jazeera investigation:
Watch here👉 Why is Donald Trump fixated on South Africa?
