Lamola lands in Washington as US visa restrictions spark diplomatic row

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has arrived in Washington, D.C., just days after the United States announced new visa restrictions aimed at South African officials, the South African government said.

Visit comes as visa policy escalates tensions

The move by Washington, announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, imposes visa restrictions on officials accused of race-based discrimination and uncompensated land seizures. The announcement has added strain to relations between the two governments.

Lamola rejects Washington’s allegations

Lamola has rejected the US allegations. The minister is scheduled to attend a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation event and to hold courtesy meetings with members of Congress during his visit.

South African briefings and engagements

Lamola received a briefing ahead of his engagements.

“The minister received a briefing from DIRCO Director-General, Mr Zane Dangor, Ambassador Meyer and minister Plenipotentiary, Ambassador Thabo Thage.”

His spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, said the minister will hold engagements with key stakeholders, participate in a Roundtable discussion and hold several bilateral meetings.

US diplomats and South African responses

US ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, warned that the restrictions are only the beginning and said they demonstrate

“America’s firm resolve in this matter.”

The South African government has denied the allegations underpinning the new policy. The ANC-led government has denied claims of systemic discrimination against white citizens. President Cyril Ramaphosa has previously said there is “no evidence of persecution against white people” and warned that such claims threaten national unity.

Why the visit matters

Lamola’s presence in Washington gives Pretoria a direct platform to engage US lawmakers and stakeholders at a moment of heightened diplomatic tension.