Trump and Africa: Here is what will Happen Under the Trump Presidency

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With Donald Trump returning to the White House, here is what Africa can expect over the next few years.

Below are some possible implications for Africa based on his previous term and political perspectives:

1. Trade and Economic Policy

   - "America First" Focus: Trump's administration emphasized an "America First" agenda, prioritizing U.S. economic interests. If he were to return, he might continue to seek trade deals that favor U.S. businesses, potentially at the expense of longstanding trade agreements that benefit African nations. There may be a push towards bilateral trade agreements instead of multilateral ones, which could favor stronger economies like South Africa while leaving smaller economies with less leverage.

   - AGOA Uncertainty: The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides Sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free access to U.S. markets, was renewed during Trump’s first term. However, Trump was critical of trade agreements that he perceived as unbalanced. If he returned to office, there could be uncertainty about the future of AGOA, impacting industries like textiles and agriculture that rely on this access.

2. Foreign Aid and Development Assistance

   - Potential Reductions in Foreign Aid: During his first term, Trump proposed cuts to the U.S. foreign aid budget, including reductions in funds allocated to global health, development, and humanitarian aid. Another term might see similar attempts to cut foreign assistance, particularly for health programs like PEPFAR (the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), which has been crucial in combating HIV/AIDS in Africa.

   - Focus on Security Over Development: Trump’s approach to foreign policy often emphasized security concerns over humanitarian development. This could mean a greater emphasis on counterterrorism and military support in countries facing insurgent threats, such as Nigeria, Somalia, and the Sahel region, potentially at the expense of broader economic development initiatives.

3. Security and Counterterrorism

   - Military Engagement: Under Trump, U.S. military engagements in Africa were often focused on counterterrorism, with increased drone strikes and support for anti-terror operations, particularly in the Sahel and Somalia. A renewed Trump presidency could lead to a continued or increased U.S. military presence, focusing on combating groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS affiliates.

   - Reduction in U.S. Military Footprint: Conversely, Trump’s previous administration considered reducing U.S. military presence in some parts of Africa, including closing the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) base in Germany. A second term might see a reevaluation of U.S. military commitments on the continent, potentially reducing troop numbers in favor of focusing on other global priorities, like countering China or strengthening NATO.

4. Relations with China and Other Global Players

   - Competition with China: Trump's administration saw China as a major competitor, and this rivalry extended into Africa. Another Trump presidency could see efforts to counter China's influence in Africa, particularly in terms of infrastructure projects, investment, and trade. This could involve encouraging U.S. private investment in Africa or providing alternatives to Chinese funding, but it may also involve increased criticism or pressure on African nations aligned with Chinese interests.

   - Alliance with Traditional Partners: Trump’s focus on bilateral relationships could reinforce ties with longstanding U.S. allies in Africa, such as Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, while potentially sidelining nations that do not align with U.S. strategic interests.

5. Immigration and Diaspora Relations

   - Immigration Restrictions: During his previous term, Trump implemented travel bans that affected several African countries (e.g., Nigeria, Sudan, Eritrea). A return to office could mean a continuation or expansion of restrictive immigration policies, which might impact African diaspora communities in the U.S. and strain diplomatic relations with affected countries.

   - Impact on Refugees and Asylum Seekers: Trump's administration significantly reduced the number of refugees accepted into the U.S. If he were to return to office, a similar approach might limit the resettlement of African refugees, potentially leading to higher pressure on other regions for asylum support.

6. Climate Policy and Environmental Impact

   - Reduced Focus on Climate Change: Trump was skeptical of climate change and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement during his first term. A similar stance in another term could lead to reduced U.S. engagement in international climate efforts, potentially affecting Africa, which is one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change. This could mean fewer U.S.-funded climate adaptation projects, impacting areas prone to droughts, floods, and desertification.

   - Resource Exploitation: A pro-business approach might favor resource extraction and energy deals, possibly leading to increased U.S. interest in Africa’s oil, gas, and mineral resources. This could bring economic benefits to resource-rich countries but might also lead to environmental and governance challenges.

Conclusion

Overall, a Trump presidency would likely prioritize U.S. economic and security interests, with less emphasis on multilateral aid and development. The impact on Africa could be mixed—potentially leading to more focused security collaboration and targeted economic partnerships but also creating uncertainty around aid, climate action, and broader trade agreements. Each African nation’s relationship with the U.S. might hinge on how closely their interests align with a Trump administration's priorities.