Although the president was making the case for land-reform, many commentators are insistent that this is a land grab which may further inflame racial tensions.
White farmers in South Africa have said they have been targeted in ‘horrific’ attacks this year, which were ignored by police and encouraged by the government.
In an article today for the Financial Times, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said land ownership changing hands is essential to fulfil the vision of Nelson Mandela, the nation’s first democratic president.
Mr Ramaphosa writes: “This is no land grab. Nor is it an assault on the private ownership of property.
“South Africa has learnt from the experiences of other countries and will not make the mistakes that some have made.”
He argued that 97 percent of South Africa’s total agricultural holding are owned by seven percent of landowners, and 72 percent of farms and agricultural holdings are owned by whites.
His administration intends to release well-located urban land for low-cost housing, allowing poorer South Africans to relocate and find jobs.
Mr Ramaphosa wrote: “Land reform in South Africa is a moral, social and economic imperative.
“By bringing more land into productive use, by giving more South Africans assets and opportunities, the country is creating conditions for greater, more inclusive and more meaningful growth”
His words could fuel fears among big business in South Africa that his programme could lead to greater instability.
US President Donald Trump this week sent the rand into a tailspin by tweeting that he would ask Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to study South African “land and farm seizures” and the “killing of farmers”.
Mr Ramaphosa took over the presidency in February this year after the corrupt Jacob Zuma was forced to resign from office under the looming threat of a military coup.