South Africa's land law explained – and why it so inflames Donald Trump

President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved a law that gives the state the power to expropriate some privately owned land without compensation for owners.

The law has drawn the ire of US President Donald Trump , who sees it as discriminating against white farmers.

Centre-right political parties and lobby groups in South Africa have also opposed it, saying they will challenge the Expropriation Act as the law is named in court.

South African Property Owners Association says it is "irrational" to give "nil compensation" to an owner who held land for speculative purposes.

Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson has defended the legislation, breaking ranks with his party, the DA.

He said the law could also help end extortionist demands on the state, and in some cases could be justified.

The DA is spearheading opposition to the legislation.

It said it wanted a "judicial review" of it, while at the same time it was pressing ahead with court action.

The DA's tough line is in contrast with that of Macpherson , who warned that if the law was struck down, "I don't know what's going to come after that".