Mantashe: “Let’s Withhold Minerals From The US” Amid Trump’s Aid Threat

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has dismissed former US President Donald Trump’s threat to cut aid to South Africa, saying the country could instead leverage its vast mineral wealth.

Speaking at the 2025 Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town on Monday, Mantashe responded to Trump’s recent statement that the US government would withhold funding, alleging that South Africa was “confiscating land”.

“I said let’s not immobilise Africa. Let’s withhold minerals from the US. If they don’t give us money, let’s not give them minerals,” Mantashe said, receiving applause.

Trump’s Controversial Statement

Trump, in a Truth Social post on Sunday, accused South Africa of seizing land and mistreating certain groups, calling it a “massive human rights violation.”

He warned that the US would take action and cut funding until an investigation was conducted.

However, the South African Presidency refuted Trump’s claims, emphasizing that the Expropriation Act, signed into law last month, does not allow for land confiscation. It stated:

“The South African government has not confiscated any land. The Expropriation Act is a constitutionally mandated legal process ensuring equitable access to land, guided by the rule of law.”

Africa’s Bargaining Power in Mineral Trade

Mantashe urged Africa to assert its power on the global stage, saying the continent should be unapologetic about using its natural resources to negotiate better trade terms.

“Africa is the world’s richest mining jurisdiction, and we must use this advantage. If we fear everything, we will collapse, even while sitting on immense mineral wealth,” he said.

He also criticized China’s dominance in the chrome market, explaining that African nations export raw materials, which China stockpiles, later flooding the market and driving down prices.

US Aid to South Africa: What’s at Stake?

The Presidency clarified that US financial assistance to South Africa is minimal, with the only significant contribution coming from Pepfar, the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which funds 17% of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS program.

Despite Trump’s threat, the South African government remains open to discussions, stating that it looks forward to engaging the US administration on land reform and bilateral trade matters.

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