South Africa: Decision to Confer Refugee Status to 49 Afrikaners Misinformed - Cabinet

The Cabinet has criticized the United States for granting refugee status to Afrikaner South Africans. They believe this decision is misinformed. The Cabinet states that these individuals do not meet the refugee definition from the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol.

Recently, 49 Afrikaners left South Africa for the U.S. They claimed they were victims of "genocide" and sought refuge. However, the Cabinet insists that their allegations of discrimination are unfounded. These claims do not meet the required threshold of persecution under domestic and international law.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addressed this issue during a post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday. She noted that police statistics on farm-related crimes do not support claims of violent crime or genocide against farmers or any racial group.

The Cabinet also rejected the narrative presented by the U.S. government. They remain open to constructive discussions to clarify these matters.

In other news, Cabinet welcomed President Ramaphosa's working visit to Côte d'Ivoire. This visit coincided with the Africa CEO Forum held on May 12 and 13, 2025. The aim was to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and Côte d'Ivoire.

During this visit, President Ramaphosa met with Alassane Ouattara, President of Côte d'Ivoire. They discussed mutual interests and committed to enhancing trade between their countries.

Additionally, Minister Ntshavheni provided an update on the withdrawal of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This follows the end of the Southern African Development Community Mission in DRC.

She explained that this decision came after extensive diplomatic efforts by AU, SADC, and EAC initiatives for a peaceful resolution in Congo. The Cabinet praised SANDF members for their honorable service under challenging conditions while promoting peace in line with AU goals.