Ignoring US Criticism, South Africa Ramps Up DEI and Affirmative Action

Affirmative action and black economic empowerment are central to the government’s plans. Critics want them replaced with merit-based employment programs.

Cyril Ramaphosa, president of the ruling African National Congress and South African president, speaks to the audience during the official election results announcement ceremony at the IEC National Results Center, in Johannesburg on June 2, 2024. Chris McGrath/Getty Images

JOHANNESBURG—Just weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump axed $440 million in annual aid to South Africa because of “racially discriminatory” policies, the country’s government is moving to strengthen and expand race-based affirmative action and black economic empowerment (BEE) regulations.

Officials in Pretoria told The Epoch Times the government is considering issuing “heavy fines” to companies that fail to employ “enough” black people and will close “loopholes” that allow firms to bypass regulations to give most senior posts to white people.