Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis has strongly condemned the “white genocide” narrative surrounding South Africa, calling it unfounded and harmful. Taking to Instagram, Davis expressed her support for the country and its people while thanking CNN’s Abby Phillip for debunking the controversial claims on-air.
“Spent a lot of time in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, and Durban… there is no argument. There is no justification,” wrote Davis.
“I’ve seen the ravages of apartheid. I’ve seen the townships — all Black. Full stop.”
She concluded her message with a heartfelt expression of solidarity:
“Thank you, @abbydphillip, for speaking truth to power. I stand with my brothers and sisters in South Africa. NGIYAKUTHANDA (I love you).”
Background: The “Genocide” Claim
Davis’s post came in response to recent allegations circulating internationally, particularly in the U.S., where former President Donald Trump and conservative commentators have reignited claims of an ongoing “white genocide” in South Africa, specifically targeting white farmers.
CNN anchor Abby Phillip rebutted these assertions during a segment, citing official crime statistics. From April to December 2024, South Africa recorded 19,696 murders, of which only 36 were farm murders and 7 involved farmers.
Davis, who starred in two major films shot in South Africa, The Woman King and G20, emphasized her personal experiences in the country as a basis for rejecting the narrative.
SA Officials and Global Bodies Respond
South African Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu also addressed the matter during a press briefing, describing the genocide claims as “totally unfounded and unsubstantiated.”
“There is respect for the U.S., its president and its people,” Mchunu said. “But we do not respect the story of genocide. It is not based on fact.”
He added that if such atrocities were occurring, they would be widely reported by the country’s free press, NGOs, and civil society.
The United Nations Human Rights Office also weighed in. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani called the genocide narrative “wholly inappropriate,” cautioning that such claims trivialize real atrocities occurring around the world.
“These are very serious issues, and the word should not be used casually,” Shamdasani stated.
A Message of Unity
Davis’s post has since gone viral, drawing praise from many South Africans and global human rights advocates. Her message of solidarity, truth, and love has resonated strongly across social media platforms.
