Donald Trump’s second inauguration in the White House has drawn a wave of congratulations from African countries, which are seeking respectful collaboration with the US administration. However, concerns remain about his isolationist agenda, especially if Republicans control both the House and the Senate.
At the heart of these relations is the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), an agreement that facilitates African exports to the United States, but whose future remains uncertain. Experts believe that Trump could favor a bilateral approach to the detriment of AGOA.
On infrastructure, the United States is launching competing projects with China, including the “Lobito Corridor,” intended to connect several African countries. On the security front, Trump could reduce US military engagement in Africa, at a time when the jihadist threat remains a concern.
US aid, which stood at nearly $4 billion in 2024, is also in question, as are efforts to combat climate change. Trump’s legacy on environmental policy raises concerns about the future of sustainability initiatives in Africa.
Africa, rich in natural resources and with promising growth prospects, needs strong partnerships with the United States to boost its economic and social development. The evolution of relations between the two continents under President Donald Trump raises questions and challenges, but also opens up opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. It remains to be seen how these issues will be managed and what the priorities of the incoming US administration will be with regard to its policy towards Africa.