South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that his country will not succumb to external pressure, following criticism from the United States over its land reform policies. Ramaphosa made the statement during his annual State of the Nation Address on Thursday, addressing growing geopolitical tensions and South Africa’s stance on global affairs.
His remarks came days after former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to cut off funding to South Africa over a controversial land reform act. Trump, without citing any evidence, claimed that the South African government was confiscating land and mistreating certain groups, alluding to a new law aimed at addressing racial disparities in land ownership.
Although Ramaphosa did not mention Trump by name, he firmly responded to international criticism. “We are witnessing the rise of nationalism, protectionism, the pursuit of narrow interests, and the decline of common cause,” he stated.
He further emphasized South Africa’s commitment to sovereignty and unity. “We will stand together as a united nation, and we will speak with one voice in defense of our national interests,” he said. His comments signaled a strong stance against what he perceives as unwarranted foreign interference in domestic policies.
The controversy deepened when U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also criticized South Africa, announcing he would not attend an upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg. Rubio accused South Africa of “doing very bad things” and claimed that it was using the G20 platform to promote “solidarity, equality, and sustainability.”
South Africa assumed the G20 presidency in December, making history as the first African country to lead the influential economic group. Ramaphosa has previously stated that his administration will use this position to advocate for African interests and the broader Global South.
Despite tensions with the U.S., Ramaphosa remains focused on domestic governance. South Africa is currently under a coalition government after the African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority in last year’s election. The ANC was forced to join forces with its biggest rival, the Democratic Alliance, in order to maintain control.
In his address, Ramaphosa outlined his administration’s economic agenda, promising new reforms aimed at revitalizing South Africa’s struggling economy. He revealed plans for a “second wave of reforms” designed to boost economic growth above 3%.
The president highlighted key areas of focus, including reviving state-owned enterprises like power utility Eskom and logistics group Transnet. Both entities have faced operational and financial difficulties, contributing to the country’s economic struggles.
Ramaphosa also stressed the importance of investing in infrastructure, describing it as a crucial step towards achieving sustainable growth. “Our economic recovery depends on strong public and private sector collaboration to rebuild key industries and create jobs,” he said.
Despite the government’s optimistic targets, South Africa’s central bank projects a more modest growth rate. The latest forecast estimates that Africa’s most industrialized economy will grow by just 1.8% this year, well below Ramaphosa’s 3% ambition.
