Call for unity in wake of Trump's offer to SA farmers

While it is unclear how many farmers are going to take up American President Donald Trump's offer of refugee status, local organisations and experts are urging South Africans to unite and refrain from spreading false news.

- Marizka Coetzer

The Transvaal Landbou Unie (TLU) says it hasn't received any requests from farmers to relocate, despite Trump's second invitation.

TLU chair Bennie van Zyl said the TLU said they had about 11 000 members across various categories.

"This thing must run its course. I don't know whether there are farmers who think this is the solution to their problems but, if so, I believe they will take the necessary steps to apply," he said.

Southern African Agricultural Initiative (Saai) chief executive officer Francios Rossouw said they had received many requests for assistance to apply to take up Trump's offer.

"Saai as a network for family farmers has forged an agreement with many organisations like Solidarity and AfriForum, who also have farmers as members, to coordinate efforts to support individuals and families who would like to pursue this opportunity," he said.

Over the weekend, Saai said the organisation would coordinate interest in Trump's offer to South African farmers.

"We've seen significant interest from farmers across the regions, especially in the past few weeks and the two days since President Trump's remarks.