South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has lashed out at White South Africans, specifically Afrikaners, fleeing to the United States as refugees amid alleged discrimination against White South African farmers, calling their departure “cowardly” during a press conference on Tuesday.
Ramaphosa expressed deep disappointment over the exodus, which has already seen dozens of Afrikaners move abroad, with more than 8,000 others reportedly expressing interest in resettling in the U.S as refugees.
“They are running away from their duty to help South Africa solve its problems,” Ramaphosa stated. “When you run away, you are a coward.”
The migration trend among Afrikaners comes amid ongoing economic challenges, rising crime rates, and political uncertainty in South Africa. Many White South Africans cite concerns over safety, job prospects, and social instability as reasons for seeking new lives abroad.
The U.S. has become a preferred destination due to President Donald Trump’s open invitation and perceived better economic opportunities and established South African communities in states like Texas and Florida.
Ramaphosa’s showed the government’s frustration.
“We need every South African to stand firm and contribute to building a better future,” Ramaphosa said. “Leaving the country at this time is not the answer.”
The president’s comments have sparked mixed reactions within Afrikaner communities. Some agree with Ramaphosa’s call for unity and responsibility, while others argue that leaving is a personal choice driven by legitimate concerns about safety and opportunity.
Johannes van der Merwe, a community leader in Pretoria, said, “Many Afrikaners feel abandoned and vulnerable. It’s not about cowardice but survival.”
