Following his re-election, President Donald Trump’s approach to Africa policy in his second term remains a topic of interest. Despite his previous term being characterized by limited engagement and a focus on security issues, it is still valuable to examine the potential direction of his Africa policy. This essay will explore possible developments in Trump’s Africa policy for his second term, drawing insights from various sources.
Trade and Economic Policy
One potential area of focus for Trump’s Africa policy in his second term could be trade and economic development. During his first term, Trump expressed an interest in expanding trade relations with African countries. In a speech to African leaders in 2017, he stated that “America seeks stronger partnerships and trade relationships in Africa” (White House, 2017).
However, Trump’s trade policies have also been characterized by a protectionist stance, which could limit the potential for growth in trade with African countries. For example, the Trump administration imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from several African countries, including South Africa and Egypt (BBC, 2018).
If Trump were to pursue a more protectionist trade policy in his second term, this could have negative consequences for African countries seeking to expand their exports to the United States. However, if Trump were to adopt a more cooperative approach to trade, focusing on reducing barriers to entry and promoting economic development, this could have positive implications for African countries seeking to increase their exports and attract foreign investment.
National Security Policy
Another potential area of focus for Trump’s Africa policy in his second term could be national security. During his first term, Trump’s approach to national security in Africa was focused on counterterrorism efforts (Council on Foreign Relations, 2020).
For example, the Trump administration expanded the use of drone strikes in Somalia, targeting the militant group al-Shabab (The New York Times, 2019). The Trump administration also increased military aid to African countries, including Nigeria and Cameroon, to support their efforts to combat terrorist groups (Defense.gov, 2018).
If Trump were to continue this focus on national security in his second term, this could have implications for the broader relationship between the United States and African countries. For example, some African leaders have expressed concerns about the Trump administration’s focus on military aid, arguing that it could lead to militarization and undermine efforts to promote peace and stability (The Conversation, 2017).
Human Rights Policy
A third potential area of focus for Trump’s Africa policy in his second term could be human rights. During his first term, Trump’s approach to human rights in Africa was characterized by a lack of engagement and a focus on security issues.
For example, the Trump administration rolled back some human rights protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in Africa, arguing that it was not the role of the United States to promote “Western” values (The Guardian, 2019). The Trump administration also faced criticism for its handling of the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, where it was accused of prioritizing security concerns over human rights (The New York Times, 2018).
If Trump were to continue this approach to human rights in his second term, this could have negative consequences for the broader relationship between the United States and African countries. Some African leaders have expressed concerns about the Trump administration’s lack of engagement on human rights issues, arguing that it could undermine efforts to promote democracy and good governance (The Conversation, 2017). After working with many of these countries, Trump’s approach to human rights is precisely what these countries yearn for. Every country has human rights issues, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, and many more, yet the U.S. still does business with them. So, why not Africans?
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is unclear what Trump’s Africa policy might look like in his second term, as he has not yet announced whether he will run for office again. However, based on his first term, it is possible that his Africa policy would continue to focus on national security and trade while paying less attention to human rights issues.
If Trump were to adopt a more cooperative approach to trade and economic development, this could have positive implications for African countries seeking to increase their exports and attract foreign investment. However, if Trump were to continue his protectionist trade policies, this could have negative consequences for African countries seeking to expand their trade relations with the United States.
If Trump were to continue his focus on national security in Africa, this could have implications for the broader relationship between the United States and African countries. Some African leaders have expressed concerns about the Trump administration’s focus on military aid and its lack of engagement on human rights issues.
Overall, it is important for the United States under the presidency of Donald Trump to engage with African countries cooperatively and constructively, recognizing the continent’s diversity and complexity. If Trump were to adopt a more nuanced approach to Africa in his second term, taking into account the concerns and priorities of African leaders and civil society groups, this could have positive implications for the broader relationship between the United States and African countries.
