President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to meet his U.S counterpart, Donald Trump, today (May 21) in what many have described as a pivotal moment in South Africa–U.S. relations.
In a move dubbed “golf diplomacy,” Ramaphosa is accompanied by South African golf legends Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, both of whom have personal rapport with Trump. This approach seeks to leverage Trump’s affinity for golf to foster a more amicable dialogue.
The meetings come after to Trump’s administration suspended U.S. aid to South Africa, expelled South African Ambassador to the U.S, Ebrahim Rasool, and offered refugee status to white Afrikaners, all of which have strained bilateral ties.
Ramaphosa is expected to propose trade and investment deals, including discussions on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which currently allows duty-free access for certain South African exports to the U.S.
South African-born entrepreneur, Elon Musk will also be present at the meeting to represent the U.S Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk’s companies have expressed interest in expanding operations in South Africa, but have been dissatisfied with current BEE regulations.
President Ramaphosa’s White House programme
11:30 AM (17:30 SAST)
President Trump receives President Ramaphosa
11:35 AM (17:35 SAST)
President Ramaphosa signs visitors book
11:45 AM (17:45 SAST)
Working Lunch with President Trump
12:45 PM (18:45 SAST)
Bilateral Meeting between President Ramaphosa and President Trump
(This element will include interaction with the media)
13:30 (19:30 SAST)
President Ramaphosa departs the White House