Trump’s Attack on Ramaphosa an Insult to Africa, Says Ghana’s John Mahama

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent accusations against South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa as deeply offensive and historically inaccurate.

Writing for The Guardian, President Mahama described Trump’s claims of an ongoing ‘white genocide’ in South Africa as a severe distortion of reality and an insult to the collective memory of Africans. Mahama stressed, “It is not enough to be affronted by these claims, or to casually dismiss them as untruths. These statements are a clear example of how language can be leveraged to extend the effects of previous injustices.”

President Mahama further emphasized the importance of historical awareness, citing Kenyan writer Mzee Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who stated, “Language conquest, unlike the military form, wherein the victor must subdue the whole population directly, is cheaper and more effective.” Mahama asserted that understanding and preserving historical truth is essential to addressing modern injustices and fostering continental solidarity.

President Mahama’s comments appeared in an op-ed published by The Guardian, responding directly to the controversial remarks Trump made during a White House meeting with President Ramaphosa.

Reflecting on Africa’s shared historical experiences, Mahama recalled significant events such as Ghana’s independence in 1957, the Sharpeville massacre in 1960, and the 1976 Soweto uprising. He underscored how these painful historical milestones unified African nations in solidarity against colonialism and apartheid, reinforcing the bonds of shared struggle and resilience.

Mahama also highlighted that despite making up less than 10% of South Africa’s population, white South Africans control more than 70% of the nation’s wealth. He criticized the continued existence of segregated towns such as Kleinfontein and Orania, questioning Trump’s narrative of victimization given these stark inequalities.

During his meeting with Ramaphosa, Trump presented misrepresented images of alleged atrocities against white farmers, some of which were later proven to be unrelated to South Africa, originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ramaphosa firmly refuted Trump’s accusations, emphasizing that the South African government has no discriminatory policies against white citizens.

President Mahama’s strong response highlights Africa’s resilience against historical distortion. He calls upon Africans to remain vigilant against narratives that threaten their collective identity and shared historical truths. Mahama concluded with a powerful reminder that addressing global injustices requires an honest recognition of past wrongs and present challenges.

Sources:

• The Guardian: John Mahama Op-Ed