President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States will end all federal funding to South Africa, citing safety concerns for South African farmers as a key factor in the decision. The move represents a significant shift in U.S.-South Africa relations and is expected to have widespread economic and diplomatic implications.

In a Truth Social post, Trump confirmed that, in addition to cutting financial aid, his administration would offer South African farmers and their families a “rapid pathway to Citizenship” if they seek refuge in the U.S. due to safety concerns.

“This process will begin immediately,” Trump wrote, signaling the urgent implementation of the policy.

According to U.S. government data, American foreign assistance to South Africa totaled $323.4 million in 2024. The abrupt withdrawal of funds could disrupt key sectors, including:

Healthcare programs
Education initiatives
Economic development projects

Many of these programs depend on U.S. financial support, raising concerns over potential instability in affected areas.

Trump’s decision aligns with longstanding debates over land reforms and farm attacks in South Africa, which have been amplified by conservative groups in the U.S. The issue has been a point of contention, with some advocating for intervention and others warning against U.S. involvement in South African domestic affairs.

The announcement is likely to spark both support and criticism, touching on foreign aid, immigration policy, and international relations.

The South African government has not yet responded to the decision, and details on how the citizenship pathway for farmers will be implemented remain unclear.

As the policy unfolds, the impact on U.S.-South Africa relations and the global diplomatic landscape will be closely watched.