South African leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, has stirred widespread reactions across the continent after a viral video on X showed him dismissing concerns about a possible “U.S. visa ban.”
The outspoken politician reaffirmed that he would prioritise visiting African nations — especially Nigeria — over seeking validation from Western countries.
Speaking during a recent EFF rally, Malema stated that the movement’s positions, which often confront U.S. foreign policy, may irritate Washington, but he would never back down because of American disapproval.
“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,” he told supporters.
He further joked that even if the U.S. barred him from entry, he would happily spend his time touring African countries 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.”
In a lighter moment, Malema compared Nigerian cuisine favourably to Western dishes.
“Why should I be concerned about people who are going to feed me beggars and make me fat, when I can go to Nigeria and eat jollof? Nice, nom nom,” he said, recalling a warm reception in Enugu State where he enjoyed jollof rice and pepper soup served by the governor.
With his familiar fiery tone, he added, “I’m a guy who is sweating but will not stop. Sweating but not stopping. That’s how nice Africa is.”
His remarks come amid growing speculation that U.S. and U.K. authorities may impose travel restrictions on him due to his stance on land reform, anti-imperialist rhetoric, and calls for radical economic transformation.
Rather than express concern, Malema used the moment to reiterate the importance of African unity in the face of Western influence.
He concluded by brushing aside any potential visa sanctions:
“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.”