Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has questioned the decision by a group of 49 Afrikaners who recently sought refugee status in the US, calling it a “mistake” and insisting South Africa is on the brink of positive transformation.
Speaking at the Nampo Harvest Day in Bothaville, Free State, Steenhuisen acknowledged people’s right to choose where they live but argued that leaving now overlooks the country’s potential under its new government.
“We are on the cusp of great things in South Africa—with new energy, new leadership, and growth initiatives that will make this nation the envy of the world,” he said.
Steenhuisen emphasized his commitment to supporting farmers, farmworkers, and the broader agricultural sector, urging them to remain and help drive the country’s development. “They will have my full attention and support as minister,” he added.
The group of Afrikaners, who relocated under a US refugee program initiated by President Donald Trump, claimed persecution in South Africa, including alleged land seizures. However, Steenhuisen dismissed these claims, stating, “There is no genocide, no land expropriation without compensation—not a single farm has been taken unlawfully.”
While acknowledging South Africa’s crime challenges, he stressed that these issues affect all citizens equally. He also called for international partners like the US to base their policies on facts rather than misinformation.
Steenhuisen welcomed next week’s planned meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and Trump, seeing it as a chance to correct misconceptions and strengthen diplomatic and trade relations.