At a post-Cabinet media briefing held Thursday in Pretoria, Ntshavheni said the Cabinet had taken note of media reports that some applicants had been refused visas after applying for the program. The announcement follows reports that hundreds of Afrikaners hoping to relocate to the US under President Donald Trump's refugee programme for minority groups were informed that their visa applications were rejected after falsely claiming genocide.
Hundreds Left in Limbo
Some applicants had already resigned from their jobs, sold their possessions, received vaccinations and completed the required orientation courses in preparation for their move to the US. According to reports, they received ineligibility letters with no explanation and no chance of appeal after abandoning their employment and assets.
"The returning South Africans will always be welcomed," Ntshavheni said. "Cabinet has noted allegations that white South Africans who chose to resettle in the United States of America, under the falsehood of a white genocide in South Africa, have been denied visas in that country."
Constitutional Protection Affirmed
Ntshavheni said the Cabinet has reiterated that all South Africans, regardless of their political views, would always have a home in the country, free from political persecution or suppression, in accordance with the country's laws.
"Cabinet has reiterated that South Africans, irrespective of their political views, will always have a home in this country without the fear of political persecution and suppression in accordance with the laws of the Republic," she said.
Addressing Socio-Economic Challenges
Ntshavheni acknowledged that South Africa is still confronted by many socio-economic challenges that affect all South Africans irrespective of race and gender. She said these challenges must be addressed through a collective, all-of-South-Africa effort involving government, political parties, labour unions, business, civil society and individuals.
The collective efforts must acknowledge the continued impact of the legacy of apartheid rule, the need for redress, and the injustices of the past. Cabinet called on all South Africans to continue to reject those seeking to reverse the gains of freedom through racial mobilisation and to recommit to the goal of building a united, non-racial and prosperous South Africa.
Background: US Refugee Programme
In May, the US government announced an expansion of its refugee admissions program for Afrikaners, increasing admissions by 10,000 over allegations of "white genocide" in South Africa, claims the South African government has rejected. The allegations have been a persistent talking point among South African opposition groups and have gained traction in conservative circles in the United States.
The South African government has consistently denied the existence of a genocide against white South Africans, describing the claims as a "false narrative" designed to serve political ends. The government has pointed to its efforts to address poverty and inequality through a range of social and economic programs.
A Message of Unity
The Cabinet's statement reflects a broader message of unity and a reaffirmation of South Africa's commitment to the principles of non-racialism and equality enshrined in its constitution. For those who left believing a false narrative, the message is clear: regardless of their reasons for leaving, South Africa remains their home.
With reporting from SAnews.gov.za, Bloomberg, The Citizen, News24 and PBS.
