As the race for the White House heats up, the relationship between the United States and Africa emerges as a crucial topic, albeit often relegated to the background. What do the U.S. presidential candidates have to offer the African continent? More importantly, what gaps left by the Trump administration need to be addressed? To answer these questions, we must take a deep dive into what is at stake for Africa, with a critical look at past neglect and future opportunities.
Trade relations
Africa remains one of the world’s most promising regions for economic growth, especially with the advancement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). However, trade development between the U.S. and the continent fell short during Trump’s administration. Despite rhetoric about bilateral agreements, in practice, U.S. policy remained protectionist, failing to create significant new opportunities for African economies.
In contrast, initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants preferential access to the U.S. market for African products, were met with indifference. The next occupant of the White House will need to prioritize not only strengthening AGOA but also pursuing trade partnerships that stimulate Africa’s industrial production, rather than focusing exclusively on exporting raw materials. The next U.S. president must act with a clear strategy to consolidate economic ties, generating a positive impact for both the U.S. and Africa’s emerging economies.
Infrastructure investment
One of the biggest challenges African nations face is the lack of adequate infrastructure, particularly in areas such as transport, energy, and telecommunications. During the Trump administration, the Prosper Africa initiative, launched with great fanfare, never materialized into significant structural investments. Meanwhile, powers like China made bold advances, financing large-scale projects across the continent.
The next U.S. president will need to fill this void. Presidential candidates have a unique opportunity to foster a more equitable partnership, where the U.S. is not just a financier but a partner in creating sustainable infrastructure that can catalyze Africa’s economic growth. Moreover, a focus on technological innovation and digital connectivity will be crucial for Africa to reach its full economic potential.
Security and regional stability
Political instability and armed conflict remain significant challenges for many African countries, particularly in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa. Yet, Trump’s administration was marked by a reduction in U.S. military engagement and a distancing from security issues on the continent. This disengagement contributed to an exacerbation of security problems, creating power vacuums that were exploited by extremist groups and insurgencies.
The U.S. presidential candidates must articulate a clear strategy to address security in Africa. This includes supporting regional peacekeeping forces, strengthening partnerships with the African Union, and increasing cooperation in the fight against terrorism. It is essential that the next president understands the importance of bolstering local defense capabilities rather than merely reducing U.S. military involvement.
Climate change
Africa is one of the continents most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with severe droughts, floods, and loss of arable land affecting millions. Under Trump’s leadership, the U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement, sidelining climate cooperation with African nations. This approach disregarded the devastating impact that climate change is already having in Africa, worsening humanitarian and economic crises.
The next candidates must correct this error by reestablishing the U.S. as a leader in the fight against climate change. This will involve promoting renewable energy policies and supporting Africa in its transition to a greener, more sustainable economy. Climate cooperation will be crucial for ensuring food security and agricultural resilience, areas severely impacted by the climate crisis.
Human rights and social inclusion
While Africa has made significant progress in areas like gender equality and social inclusion, many challenges remain. During Trump’s administration, there was a lack of emphasis on human rights in the African context, with little pressure on authoritarian regimes and weak support for social inclusion initiatives. Furthermore, the administration showed disinterest in gender equality issues, a key area for Africa’s long-term development.
U.S. presidential candidates must demonstrate a renewed commitment to policies that promote human rights and social inclusion. Empowering women and youth will be essential for building a solid foundation for development. Additionally, it is crucial to support democratic movements and initiatives that promote transparency and good governance, areas neglected during the previous administration.
Opportunities and challenges for the White House Candidates
U.S. presidential candidates face an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen relations with Africa, a continent marked by economic potential but still grappling with profound challenges. The Trump administration left significant gaps in areas such as trade, infrastructure, security, and climate change, and the next occupant of the White House will bear the responsibility of filling these gaps with pragmatic and sustainable policies.
Africa can no longer be seen merely as a passive recipient of foreign aid but as a strategic partner capable of contributing to global growth and addressing the challenges of the 21st century. The candidates’ promises will be tested by their ability to take concrete action, and the future of U.S.-Africa relations will depend on a genuine commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
This is the moment to rethink and redesign the role of the United States in Africa.
