During a White House meeting, former U.S. President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa with a controversial video. The clip showed opposition leader Julius Malema singing “Shoot the Boer,” a song that refers to white farmers. Trump also shared reports of attacks on white farmers in South Africa.
This exchange happened after Ramaphosa asked what it would take for Trump to stop believing that a “white genocide” is happening in South Africa.
Ramaphosa, speaking alongside a South African delegation, dismissed the claim. He explained that South Africa is a democracy where people are free to express their views—even when they’re controversial.
“There is crime in our country, and both black and white people are affected,” he said. “Malema’s comments do not reflect government policy.”
South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, also addressed Trump’s concerns. He said while some white farmers have moved abroad, most still want to stay and work in South Africa.
Steenhuisen, who leads the opposition Democratic Alliance, added that the government is tackling rural crime, including livestock theft, to protect farmers.
Malema, who became a hot topic during the meeting, responded on X (formerly Twitter):
“A group of older men meet in Washington to gossip about me. No solid evidence of white genocide has been presented. We won’t compromise on land reform just to please others.”
Golf legend Ernie Els, part of the South African delegation, also spoke. He shared memories of growing up during apartheid and said, “Two wrongs don’t make a right.” He said he’s proud of his country but wants to see positive change.
Businessman Johann Rupert agreed that violence in South Africa affects everyone.
“It’s not just white farmers,” he told Trump. “People of all races are victims.”
Ramaphosa used the meeting to shift focus to economic growth. He said crime increases when people are unemployed, which is why his main goal is to build partnerships.
“We’re here to encourage trade and investment, with your support,” he said.
Trump was also asked about the International Criminal Court’s investigation into alleged war crimes in Gaza—a move pushed by South Africa.
“I don’t expect much,” Trump said. “There’s a lot of anger. We’ll see what the court decides.”
Both leaders agreed on the need for peace in Ukraine. Trump also claimed the U.S. helped resolve conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, involving rebel groups backed by Rwanda.
