Ramaphosa Bets on Elon Musk to Fix South Africa-US Relations
(Source: Reuters Exclusive)
Breaking News: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa is making a bold move to repair ties with the U.S. – by pitching Elon Musk’s Tesla and Starlink as key to a new trade deal with Donald Trump.
What’s Happening?
🔹 Ramaphosa meets Trump Wednesday to reset strained relations
🔹 Tesla deal on table? Favourable tariffs in exchange for EV charging stations
🔹 Starlink licensing push – U.S. wants South Africa to approve Musk’s satellite internet
Why This Matters
🇺🇸 Trump’s tough stance: Cut funding over land reform & Israel genocide case
🇿🇦 SA’s big risk: Could lose duty-free U.S. farm trade under Trump tariffs
💡 Musk’s role: The Tesla boss (a Trump ally) could be the bridge
Key Quotes:
➡️ “Could be one of the points discussed” – Ramaphosa’s spokesperson on Tesla
➡️ “Losing trade benefits would be disastrous” – SA Agriculture Minister
The Backstory
⚡ Musk vs SA govt: Claims Starlink was blocked due to race (officials deny this)
📡 Starlink hurdle: Needs to sell 30% to Black investors under SA law
🚜 Farm crisis: U.S. trade perks at risk – threatening jobs and economy.