Ramaphosa Invites Business and Golf Icons to Trump Meeting

(The Post News)– In an unconventional diplomatic move, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Washington this week flanked by billionaire Johann Rupert and golf legends Ernie Els and Retief Goosen for a crucial meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The purpose of the meeting: to defuse rising tensions between the two nations and strengthen trade ties, particularly around the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a key trade framework that allows duty-free exports from Africa to the U.S.

According to a senior official from the South African delegation, President Trump values athleticism, accomplishment, and strength—since golf is Trump’s language, bringing Ernie and Retief is not merely symbolic; it is a calculated move.

Ramaphosa’s office described the visit as a “constructive dialogue” designed to address concerns raised by Trump in recent years, including unfounded allegations of a “white genocide” in South Africa, a narrative that has drawn international criticism and strained relations.

Ramaphosa stressed to reporters that their goal is to “promote trade, cooperation, and mutual understanding” rather than to indulge “conspiracy theories”.

Johann Rupert, chair of Richemont and one of South Africa’s most influential businessman, played a key role in orchestrating the meeting. According to Rupert, the livelihoods of thousands of South Africans depend on the extension of AGOA benefits; therefore, if doing so is in both countries’ best interests, they must act now rather than later.

Insiders say Trump appeared receptive, with the presence of the golf stars lightening the mood during preliminary discussions. Els, a four-time major champion, shared anecdotes from past rounds of golf with Trump.

“I have played golf with Donald many times. He loves the game, and it opens doors to more relaxed conversations,” Els said after the meeting. “We used that to talk about serious things, trade, investment, and even Africa’s digital future.”

Meanwhile, Goosen explained that it is more than just a golf outing; it’s a sign that South Africa is prepared to collaborate with the United States on an equal basis, with mutual respect and interests.

Indeed, another major item on the agenda was the potential rollout of Elon Musk’s Starlink internet services across rural South Africa, a move Ramaphosa sees as critical to bridging the country’s digital divide.

The outcome of the meeting remains to be seen, but the unconventional blend of diplomacy, business, and sport may mark a new chapter in South Africa vs South Africa.