Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has expressed optimism that U.S. President Donald Trump will visit Pretoria ahead of the G20 summit later this year, as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations. Addressing the media on Wednesday morning in Cape Town, Magwenya emphasized the significance of a potential meeting between Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. He noted that Ramaphosa is keen on hosting Trump for a state visit before the summit, which South Africa will be hosting in November. The United States, in turn, is scheduled to host the G20 in 2026.
Magwenya underscored Ramaphosa’s intention to facilitate meaningful dialogue and clear any misunderstandings between South Africa and the U.S., particularly in light of recent tensions over South Africa’s Expropriation Act. He also shared a lighthearted remark, suggesting that the South African president is eager to take Trump for a round of golf, humorously noting that Ramaphosa has been working on improving his game to offer decent competition.
This statement follows Trump’s recent threat to cut U.S. funding to South Africa under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The move came in response to concerns raised by the U.S. administration over the land expropriation policy signed into law by Ramaphosa just a week prior. Trump maintained that the U.S. would not support policies that undermine property rights, a stance that has fueled further diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
In response to Trump’s remarks, Ramaphosa firmly rejected claims that the Expropriation Act violates constitutional principles, reiterating that South Africa remains committed to democratic governance. Magwenya further emphasized that the South African government is prepared to engage with Trump, his advisor Elon Musk, and other key American stakeholders to clarify the policy’s intentions and dispel any misinterpretations.
Magwenya pointed out that the Trump administration has fundamentally misunderstood the scope of the Expropriation Act, asserting that Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson is the key figure in overseeing and communicating the process effectively. He reassured that the policy is intended to address historical land disparities in a lawful and transparent manner.
Trade relations between the two countries also remain a crucial consideration, with Magwenya reminding the public that the United States is South Africa’s second-largest trading partner. He expressed hope that diplomatic engagements will prevent any disruptions that could impact economic cooperation.
Meanwhile, Magwenya criticized the civil rights organization AfriForum for exaggerating concerns about the Expropriation Act. He accused the group of instilling unnecessary fear among South Africans and misleading international partners, including the United States. AfriForum had previously lobbied the U.S. government, requesting that any sanctions or punitive measures be directed solely at the ruling African National Congress (ANC) rather than the broader South African public.
As discussions continue, the South African government remains focused on fostering constructive dialogue with the U.S., ensuring that both nations can navigate their differences while maintaining a stable and mutually beneficial relationship.
