Trump's Africa Policy Shifts Toward Trade and Strategic Interests Amid Global Challenges
The Trump administration has implemented a notable shift in its Africa policy, prioritizing trade and ending wars over traditional emphases on democracy and human rights. This approach is encapsulated in the slogan "Trade, not aid," portraying Africa as a powerhouse partner for trade and investment rather than a recipient of assistance.
A major policy move includes dismantling USAID, an action linked to a Lancet forecast predicting about 14 million additional deaths globally by 2030, many in Africa. Economic challenges have intensified as tariffs have harmed African exporters, such as Lesotho’s textile industry, alongside the lapse of the African Growth and Opportunity Act in September. Additionally, refugee admissions have been restricted and visa bans imposed on Africans.
Public criticism has been directed at several African governments, including those of South Africa and Nigeria, with continuing controversial remarks about Africans from historical perspectives. Notably, there was no visit to sub-Saharan Africa during Trump’s first term.
The policy has been characterized as transactional, reflecting a view of Africa through a strategic and economic lens. December 2025 witnessed several significant developments, including a Rwanda–DRC peace deal and U.S. airstrikes in Nigeria targeting ISIS-linked militants. However, a peace deal in Congo appears to have broken down, with Qatar mediation efforts and ongoing negotiations in Sudan.
Experts observe that while Africa’s role is seen as central to U.S. strategic interests, it may be constrained by leadership dynamics and leverage limitations. They express concerns about the durability of the policy, noting its short-term focus and the influence of rival powers such as Russia and China, alongside intra-regional dynamics. Elon Musk’s influence on South Africa has also been cited as a factor shaping U.S.–South Africa relations under this policy.
