South African opposition leader Julius Malema, President of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has openly dismissed concerns over possible visa restrictions by the United States, declaring that he would instead travel across Africa—including to Nigeria—to enjoy the continent’s hospitality and cuisine if denied entry to America.
Malema made the remarks during a political briefing in Johannesburg on Friday, where he spoke on the EFF’s strategy ahead of the party’s national general council and commented on broader geopolitical tensions involving Western powers.
In a video circulating online, the 44‑year‑old firebrand politician famously mocked the notion of travelling to the United States, quipping that he would much prefer to eat jollof rice and goat pepper soup in Nigeria rather than American burgers.
“Even if America decides that I should no longer enter America, it is okay,” he said. “I will enter Zimbabwe, I will enter Botswana, I will enter Nigeria, I will enter Africa, my home.”
Highlighting his cultural affinity with Africa, Malema argued that Western immigration restrictions hold no appeal for him, stating: “Why should I be concerned about people who are going to feed me burgers and make me fat when I can go to Nigeria and eat jollof rice with goat pepper soup?”
Context of the Remarks
Malema’s comments come amid heightened diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the United States, triggered by Washington’s decision to skip the G20 Summit in Johannesburg and its reported intention to exclude South Africa from the 2026 meeting in Miami, Florida.
The U.S. cited alleged mistreatment of white farmers in South Africa as part of its reasoning—an allegation Pretoria has consistently rejected as misinformation. This dispute has further inflamed Malema’s long‑standing criticism of Western influence in African affairs.
Malema reiterated that Western visas and immigration policies do not shape his political commitments, noting that threats to withheld visas—whether from the U.S. or the United Kingdom—are irrelevant to his African identity and political ideology.
Reactions and Wider Implications
The comments have sparked significant discussion across social and traditional media platforms:
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Supporters have framed Malema’s remarks as a bold affirmation of African solidarity and self‑confidence.
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Critics argue the rhetoric could deepen diplomatic friction with Western nations.
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Analysts note that Malema’s invocation of Nigeria underscores Nigeria’s cultural influence and perceived centrality in African geopolitics.
Malema’s narrative aligns with the EFF’s broader ideological stance advocating Pan‑African solidarity, resistance to perceived Western domination, and the promotion of African solutions to African problems.
Background on Julius Malema and the EFF
Julius Malema founded the Economic Freedom Fighters in 2013 after his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC). The EFF has since become one of South Africa’s most vocal opposition parties, known for its uncompromising positions on land expropriation, economic justice, and anti‑imperialist rhetoric.
Malema has previously criticised Western governments over visa denials and alleged political censorship, including a high‑profile UK visa refusal earlier in 2025 that his party branded as “cowardly” and politically motivated. African Insider
As Malema continues to build his political platform ahead of future elections, his statements about travel, cultural pride, and Africa’s place in the world are likely to remain a staple of his rhetorical strategy.
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