Trump Administration Advances Refugee Program for Afrikaners Amid Criticism of South African Government

FIRST ON FOX: The United States, alongside South African organizations, is taking steps aimed at improving the situation for Afrikaners, the descendants of white settlers predominantly of Dutch origin. This initiative follows President Donald Trump’s assertion that these individuals could find refuge in the U.S.

On Friday, President Trump again expressed his discontent with the South African government, accusing it of mistreating farmers, many of whom are Afrikaners. He vocalized his concerns on his Truth Social platform, stating that the government is seizing land from white farmers and perpetrating violence against them.

The State Department confirmed to Fox News Digital that significant actions are underway. Notably, the Afrikaner Orania Movement has openly sought treatment as a quasi-state within South Africa.

Previously, discussions surrounding Afrikaners had been heated, but specifics from the U.S. side were sparse. Now, however, tangible steps are beginning to unfold.

The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, is engaged in evaluating inquiries from individuals interested in refugee resettlement to the United States. Additionally, outreach has commenced to set up informational interviews with some interested Afrikaners, as reported by the State Department to Fox News Digital.

As of last month, the non-profit South African Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. stated that 67,042 South Africans had expressed interest in the refugee resettlement program. Yet, the State Department indicated that no specific participant numbers are available at this stage.

A surge of delegations from South Africa has flown to Washington, D.C., all seeking to draw attention to their plight from the White House and President Trump himself.

Efforts by Political Groups in the U.S.

One notable group, AfriForum, has been pivotal in drawing President Trump’s focus to the plight of Afrikaners requiring humanitarian assistance.

Several organizations, including the Cape Independence Advocacy Group, assert that regions such as Cape Town should obtain statehood separate from South Africa.

Perhaps most relevant is the Orania Movement’s appeal for U.S. assistance, which highlights their quest for autonomy and recognition.

“Help us here,” emphasized Orania CEO Joost Strydom during discussions with U.S. officials.

Orania is a rapidly growing settlement of approximately 3,000 Afrikaners situated in South Africa’s Karoo region. According to Strydom, the community does not aspire to relocate to the U.S. as refugees but rather seeks U.S. support for their autonomy in South Africa.

The Vision for Orania

“Orania’s mission is to foster and secure the safety and freedom of Afrikaners,” Strydom explained. “Self-governance is essential for us to safeguard our prosperity. If we can operate freely, we can protect our community.”

Strydom articulated a deep sense of belonging when he shared his lineage. His great-grandfather arrived in Africa in 1676, over a century before the United States declared its independence.

Founded in 1988, Orania prides itself on its all-white, Afrikaner population, which has reportedly been growing at a rate of 10 to 12 percent per year. Business projects are also on the rise by an impressive 26 percent. Orania has proceeded to establish self-sufficient systems for water purification and solar power.

In one of South Africa’s most arid regions, the farmers of Orania thrive, cultivating corn, wheat, pecans, almonds, and various livestock.

Education is flourishing as well, with the community constructing Afrikaans language schools and a college while plans for a university are under discussion.

Critical Meetings in Washington

Strydom highlighted that their delegation visited Washington in light of President Trump’s recognition of Afrikaners as a distinct group. This acknowledgment propelled their plans for U.S. engagements.

During their visit, the Orania representatives held meetings with officials, discussing substantial issues that they prefer to keep private for now, respecting newly formed connections.

The South African government, meanwhile, has harshly criticized groups knocking on U.S. doors for assistance.

Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the South African presidency, stated that these organizations do not represent the broader South African populace, which undermines their legitimacy.

U.S. Administration’s Stance

A spokesperson from the State Department clarified the administration’s standpoint when speaking with Fox News Digital. “Through an executive order, the president has initiated efforts to hold the South African government accountable for the infringement of Afrikaner rights. The administration is prioritizing humanitarian aid for those facing unjust racial discrimination,” the representative affirmed.

Hanli Pieters, who is associated with Bo-Karoo Opleiding, Orania’s educational institution, expressed pride in her identity as an Afrikaner. She opened up about her commitment to Orania, stating that it provides a safe haven where she can live authentically in her culture.

“In Orania, I can live and pray freely, speaking Afrikaans in my daily life. The community collaborates to build and grow our legacy,” Pieters concluded.

As of the point of publication, Fox News Digital had reached out to the South African government for a comment but had yet to receive a response.

Looking Ahead: The Path for Afrikaners

The unfolding narrative regarding Afrikaners and their quest for recognition signifies deeper issues entwined in South Africa’s socio-political fabric. The involvement of the U.S. government could alter the landscape significantly for these communities seeking better futures while facing adversity.

As the situation develops, both the Afrikaners and the South African government will likely remain under the spotlight, facing scrutiny as they navigate a sensitive course toward resolution.