2/18/25

In all the Trump and Musk chaos, I’d like to highlight what is going on in South Africa. 

Recent actions by U.S. President Donald Trump and businessman Elon Musk started a racist tirade in South Africa, particularly regarding HIV/AIDS funding and immigration policies.

Cuts to HIV/AIDS Funding

President Trump signed an executive order halting U.S. aid to South Africa, creating fear mongering, accusing SA of racism against white farm owners. They suspended of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which annually contributes over $400 million to support HIV/AIDS programs in South Africa. The abrupt funding freeze has forced the closure of several health programs, leaving millions of HIV patients without access to essential treatment and care. In provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, which has the highest HIV prevalence in the country, the impact is particularly severe, with patients overwhelming public health facilities and facing increased risks of treatment interruptions.

apnews.com

Selective Immigration Policies

In a controversial move, President Trump has offered refugee status to white South Africans, specifically Afrikaners, claiming they face racial discrimination due to South Africa’s land expropriation laws. He has cut USRAP which allowed Black people in Africa to come as refugees. So this is literally a refugee program for white people, and does not allow for Black individuals. Notably, many white South Africans have rejected the offer (not one has accepted the offer), expressing a commitment to remain in their homeland and address challenges locally.

reuters.com

Elon Musk’s Involvement

Elon Musk, a South African-born billionaire and close ally of President Trump, has publicly criticized the South African government, accusing it of anti-white policies. He also does Nazi salutes, to make it clear that he is, indeed, very racist. Musk’s statements have further fueled tensions and have been linked to the U.S. administration’s recent actions toward South Africa. Critics argue that Musk’s involvement reflects a biased perspective that overlooks the complexities of South Africa’s efforts to address historical inequalities.

vox.com

These developments have sparked widespread concern and debate, and activism against Trump and Musk is desperately needed.