12 December 2025
South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Julius Malema, has once again stirred conversation across the continent after a viral clip on X captured him boldly dismissing any fear of a U.S. visa ban.
Addressing supporters at a recent EFF rally, the outspoken politician said the movement’s uncompromising stance—often at odds with Washington—might irritate the United States, but he would never be intimidated into silence.
“When we do that, you must know we are doing that against America. It will never like that. But are we going to retreat because America doesn’t want us to do that? Never,” Malema declared to loud cheers.
Malema went on to joke that even if the U.S. blocked him from entering, he would be more than happy to travel across Africa instead.
“Even if America decides that I should no longer enter America, it’s okay. I will enter Zimbabwe. I’ll enter Botswana. I’ll enter Nigeria. I’ll enter Africa—my home.”
He then humorously praised Nigerian cuisine, saying he preferred African food over Western dishes.
“Why should I be worried about people who will feed me burgers and make me fat, when I can go to Nigeria and eat jollof? Nice, nom nom,” he said, recalling a warm welcome in Enugu where he enjoyed jollof rice and pepper soup.
With his signature passionate delivery, he added: “I’m a guy who is sweating but will not stop. Sweating but not stopping. That’s how nice Africa is.”
His comments come amid growing speculation that Western governments, including the U.S. and U.K., may consider travel restrictions against him over his anti-imperialist rhetoric, radical economic positions, and strong views on land reform.
Malema, however, appeared unfazed, dismissing any talk of visa denial.
“So you want to threaten me that you won’t give me a visa to America or give me a visa to London? I don’t care.”
