On February 25, 2025, representatives of AfriForum and the Solidarity movement met with senior officials from the Trump administration at the White House, aiming to advocate for the rights and concerns of Afrikaners in South Africa. Led by Flip Buys, Chairperson of Solidarity, and Kallie Kriel, CEO of AfriForum, the delegation presented a memorandum highlighting perceived human rights violations and poor governance under the African National Congress (ANC).
The meeting took place at a time of heightened tension, particularly following President Trump’s executive order which reduced aid to South Africa and offered refugee status to Afrikaners amid fears related to land expropriation. The delegation urged the U.S. government to recognize Afrikaners as a cultural community deserving of increased support, and called for action against the ANC's policies without harming ordinary South Africans.
"We cannot allow ordinary South Africans to suffer even more as a result of the mistakes of the ANC," the group stated, emphasizing the importance of not penalizing the broader populace for political disputes. The memorandum called for the U.S. to exert pressure on South African leadership to revise the Expropriation Act and address what they described as discriminatory legislation.
Buys pointed out the increasing threats against Afrikaners, asking for the U.S. administration to encourage the South African government to prioritize discussions on hate speech and violence against minority communities: "Pressure must be put on South Africa to declare farm murders as priority crimes and to take decisive actions against those who incite violence against Afrikaners," he asserted.
Despite the South African government’s strong denial of Trump’s allegations of confiscation of land from white farmers, tensions have continued to build. The ANC, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, declined to meet with the delegation and accused them of spreading misinformation about South Africa’s legal framework. Nevertheless, the delegation pressed on, declaring their commitment to remain in South Africa and not accept relocation offers from the U.S.
The discussions touched on several recent legislative developments, including the new Expropriation Act and the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act (BELA). The delegation expressed serious concerns over how these laws affect minority rights and called for international support to defend their cultural heritage.
The memorandum, presented to U.S. officials, highlighted the need for immediate aid and support programs aimed at providing infrastructure for Afrikaner communities, emphasizing cultural preservation and safety. The meeting highlighted the perceived injustices faced by Afrikaners under current South African policies, as described by Solidarity's leadership, including the belief in rising racial tensions and persecution.
The group articulated their desire for the U.S. to avoid broad sanctions or punitive measures against South Africa as a whole. They believe such actions would inadvertently harm ordinary citizens and beneficial sectors, as noted by Kriel. "Instead, targeted actions against specific ANC leaders should be considered," he urged, requesting the continuation of trade under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which supports economic development.
There are growing accusations from detractors labeling AfriForum and Solidarity’s efforts as exaggeration or misinformation. Critics cite crime statistics indicating far fewer incidents of violence against farmers than the groups have reported, including only twelve farm murders recorded from recent annual statistics.
Nevertheless, the delegation reiterated their claims about feeling unsafe and discriminated against, arguing for international visibility and dialogue about their plight. They pointed out the adverse effects of unilateral actions taken by the ANC which have allegedly marginalized the experiences of Afrikaner communities.
This meeting was just one part of AfriForum's larger campaign to garner international support. Following their visit to Washington, they continued to protest against ANC policies and highlight what they perceive as systemic disadvantages faced by Afrikaners.
Despite these challenges, Solidarity and AfriForum are determined to keep their message alive, aiming for substantial changes within South Africa and encouraging the U.S. to play a supportive role. They are adamant their future—both socially and economically—depends on the actions taken both at home and abroad.