South African leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters Julius Malema, has sparked widespread reactions across Africa after a viral video shared on X of him dismissing the possibility of a U.S. visa ban.
The firebrand politician insisted that he would rather visit fellow African nations particularly Nigeria than seek approval from Western governments.
Speaking at a recent EFF rally, Malema declared that the movement’s positions, which often challenge U.S. foreign policy, might provoke Washington, but that he would never retreat because of American displeasure.
“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 cheering supporters.
“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 humorous moment, he praised Nigerian cuisine over Western food.
“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 was served jollof rice and pepper soup by the governor.
Malema continued with his trademark fiery delivery, declaring, “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 increasing 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 shy away, Malema used the moment to emphasise African solidarity as a counterweight to Western influence.
Malema concluded by shrugging off potential visa threats.
“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.”
