It has been just over a month since a group of Afrikaner refugees from South Africa arrived in the United States, and debates continue to swirl over their current living conditions and the legitimacy of their asylum claims.
A video circulating on social media recently sparked public concern. In the clip, a South African-born woman living in the US alleged that a family of Afrikaner refugees was stranded in a hotel with no access to food, financial support, or even basic necessities like cellphones. She claimed that the family, along with others, believed they were coming to guaranteed assistance, including housing, employment, and healthcare. According to her, this expectation was far from the reality they encountered upon arrival.
“They thought they were going to be arriving at a house, with a job, and with medical insurance. It isn’t that way at all,” she said in the video, which has gone viral online.
However, these claims have been strongly refuted by Sam Busa, the founder of Amerikaners — an organisation that facilitates the resettlement of Afrikaner families to the US under refugee status. Busa confirmed that although there were some initial logistical challenges, the process was on track and the refugees were adjusting to their new lives.
“We expected some administrative hiccups for the pilot group. That’s precisely why this was called a pilot — to sort out any practical challenges. To our knowledge, these issues have been addressed, and the group is settling in well. Many are excited about the opportunities ahead,” Busa stated.
She added that it is entirely normal for newly arrived refugees to be housed temporarily in hotels. “The US government would never leave people completely unsupported. Some people online are simply spreading misinformation or clickbait to discredit the process,” Busa said.
Despite assurances from Amerikaners, the relocation of the Afrikaner refugees has ignited controversy back in South Africa. Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, the great-grandson of Nelson Mandela, has called on the South African government to take legal action against the more than 49 Afrikaners who have resettled in the US, arguing that their departure violates several local laws.
“This is not just about spreading misinformation. It is a coordinated campaign designed to destabilise South Africa’s reputation internationally,” Mandela claimed. He cited possible breaches of the Immigration Act, Films and Publications Act, Equality Act, and the Protection of Constitutional Democracy Against Terrorist and Related Activities Act.
As part of their resettlement package, the refugees have been offered several benefits by the US government, including lawful entry, immediate work authorisation, temporary financial and medical assistance, and help with accommodation and employment through the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).
Eligible refugees may also apply for permanent residency after one year in the US, opening a path to citizenship. Additionally, they can apply for family reunification to bring spouses and children to join them.
As the resettlement project progresses, both supporters and critics continue to watch closely, questioning the political motives behind the migration and the long-term implications for both South Africa and the US.