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Ramaphosa Navigates Tough Trump Talks to Reset US-South Africa Ties

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5 months ago

May 27, 2025

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President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to Washington was far more than a diplomatic formality—it was a high-stakes attempt to hit the reset button on the often-rocky relationship between South Africa and the United States.

While the public narrative was dominated by inflammatory claims of “so-called genocide” and divisive political noise, behind closed doors Ramaphosa and his team focused on rebuilding trust and finding common ground with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Beyond the Noise: A Calculated Move

Critics feared the meeting would mirror Trump’s awkward and sometimes disrespectful past dealings with global leaders. But that didn’t happen. Instead, Ramaphosa approached the Oval Office with a strategic team that included high-profile white South Africans like businessman Johan Rupert and opposition leader John Steenhuisen—figures whose credibility Trump couldn’t easily dismiss.

Rupert, in particular, played a key role in setting the record straight on the “genocide” narrative. He framed South Africa’s challenges—like crime and lawlessness—as affecting all citizens, not just one racial group. His message, backed by his own philanthropic and economic footprint in South Africa, seemed to land well.

Progress in Trade and Technology

After the private discussions, Ramaphosa expressed confidence that US-South Africa relations were back on track. Minister of Trade Parks Tau confirmed that a proposed framework for future trade relations had been submitted, setting the stage for deeper cooperation. Among the priorities: continued access to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and new deals in the energy and auto sectors.

One major opportunity on the horizon involves the potential import of liquefied natural gas from the U.S. to South Africa, a critical move as local reserves dwindle. In return, the U.S. could benefit from duty-free exports of around 40,000 vehicles to South Africa annually.

Another big-ticket item is Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service. South Africa is reportedly amending its Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) rules to allow tech giants to meet transformation targets through equity equivalents—bypassing the usual 30% local ownership requirement. If finalized, this would open the door for Starlink and other international firms to enter the local market.

Trump’s Softer Side?

Observers noted that Trump’s handling of the meeting signaled a possible shift in tone. Unlike his typically combative stance in trade talks with countries like China or even Canada, he seemed more measured and transactional with South Africa. Ramaphosa may have found a way to navigate the Trump playbook.

Lingering Tensions at Home

Still, progress abroad won’t mean much if South Africa can’t fix critical problems at home.

The Afrikaner community’s unease—exacerbated by controversial moments like the “Kill the Boer” song or political visits to culturally conservative towns like Orania—continues to draw international attention. While these actions are not illegal, they often create the perception of division and persecution, which foreign leaders like Trump are quick to latch onto.

Then there’s the broader crisis: unemployment, poverty, and rampant crime. If not addressed urgently, these issues will continue to undermine South Africa’s credibility on the world stage.

A Call for a Jobs-Focused Marshall Plan

Ramaphosa’s wins in Washington are significant. But if they aren’t followed by bold, measurable action at home, the opportunity may be lost. What’s urgently needed is a modern Marshall Plan focused on job creation. The government must not only attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) but also commit to quarterly progress reports on tackling joblessness.

A Diplomatic Win, But Work Remains

The Oval Office meeting was a diplomatic tightrope walk—and Ramaphosa didn’t fall. He walked away with potential gains in trade and technology, and a softened stance from a notoriously unpredictable Trump. But for South Africa to truly benefit, it must now act decisively to address domestic challenges that no foreign handshake can fix.