American elections capture global attention, with audiences worldwide closely following each twist in the presidential race. Beyond domestic topics like the economy and immigration, these debates touch on major geopolitical issues such as relations with China, Middle Eastern tensions, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Regardless of whether Republicans or Democrats hold power, U.S. policies have global ripple effects, impacting lives across Europe, Asia, and Africa. As the world’s leading superpower, the United States exerts a unique influence that transcends its military strength; its leadership shapes international norms, values, and alliances, providing a model for others to follow. However, in today’s shifting geopolitical landscape, Africa is emerging as a key player, challenging traditional perceptions and urging the U.S. to reconsider its approach to global partnerships.
The United States, as the world’s leading superpower, exerts a unique influence on the international system. This influence extends beyond military might; it is rooted in America’s ability to project its values, set international norms, and foster alliances that model a path for others. The U.S. must now renew its commitment to this global role in a world where Africa, in particular, is becoming an increasingly pivotal player.
Africa is no longer the “geopolitically poor” continent it was once perceived to be. It is increasingly influential within the global order, drawing major powers and positioning itself as a key player in the strategic balance of global affairs. For the U.S., this shifting dynamic signals the need for a fresh approach to Africa – one that recognizes the continent’s strategic importance and seeks to form innovative partnerships that benefit both sides.
To shed light on the fierce competition among the world’s major powers on the African continent, it is crucial to examine their respective strategies. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has established a prominent presence in Africa through extensive infrastructure projects aimed at linking African resources to global markets. Major projects, such as the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway in Kenya and the Djibouti-Ethiopia Railway, have become critical trade corridors, ensuring access to Africa’s valuable resources, including minerals and energy deposits. While these investments drive rapid development, they also raise concerns about escalating debt and dependency in African nations, reflecting both the opportunities and risks associated with China’s expanding influence.
Simultaneously, Russia has expanded its alliances in Africa beyond traditional sectors like arms sales and energy, focusing on technological partnerships. Russia’s recent space cooperation with the African Union exemplifies this strategy, aiming to provide satellite technology for resource monitoring, disaster response, and telecommunications improvements. By offering an alternative to Western technology partnerships, Russia appeals to Africa’s aspirations for technological advancement and enhanced self-reliance. This alignment positions Russia as a partner in Africa’s technological and security sectors, strengthening Africa’s autonomy from Western influence. Through these strategies, both China and Russia are solidifying their roles in Africa’s growth, underscoring the continent’s importance in the global geopolitical landscape and emphasizing the need for the U.S. to reconsider its engagement in Africa.
Africa’s abundant natural resources and growing energy potential enhance its economic and geopolitical significance. The continent possesses essential minerals, including cobalt, lithium, and platinum, which are critical to industries driving the energy transition and high-tech advancements. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, for example, holds about 70% of the world’s cobalt reserves, essential for rechargeable batteries. Zimbabwe boasts substantial lithium deposits, and South Africa is a major producer of platinum and palladium, vital for emissions-reduction technologies. These assets allow Africa to meet the growing global demand for a greener economy.
Africa also has vast energy resources. Natural gas deposits in East Africa, notably in Mozambique and Tanzania, along with oil reserves in Nigeria and Angola, can help meet global energy needs. Additionally, Africa’s potential in renewables, such as solar energy from the Moroccan Sahara and hydropower from the Nile and Congo basins, positions the continent as a future leader in sustainable energy. Developing these resources responsibly could strengthen Africa’s energy independence, making it an ideal partner for nations diversifying their clean energy sources.
However, leveraging these resources requires infrastructure investment to secure supply chains and build local capacity. The Prosper Africa initiative, launched under the Trump administration, could be revitalized with a focus on sustainably developing critical materials and renewable energy. Similarly, the Development Finance Corporation (DFC) could play a key role in financing strategic infrastructure and energy projects, fostering sustainable growth and regional integration.
Recent initiatives led by Morocco offer a noteworthy model for fostering economic and political cohesion across the Afro-Atlantic region. Guided by a strategic vision to bolster regional connectivity, Morocco’s approach aligns with the broader goals of North Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security frameworks, underscoring Africa’s role in global stability. A key example of this strategy is the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, which aims to link West African nations and enhance energy integration along the Atlantic corridor. This project not only strengthens sustainable economic development but also promotes regional cooperation, positioning the African Atlantic coastline as a critical center for energy, trade, investment, and maritime security.
In this strategy, Morocco is also positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s energy transition, investing in the production of green hydrogen and ammonia – resources essential for reducing energy dependency and fostering a low-carbon economy. These efforts align with Morocco’s “Triple A” (Adaptation of African Agriculture) policy, which promotes food security through resilient agricultural practices and supports African nations in adapting to climate challenges.
By integrating energy, food sovereignty, and economic cooperation, Morocco aims to transform the Afro-Atlantic corridor into a driver of African growth. This vision, which aligns with North Atlantic and Indo-pacific doctrines, could provide a framework for collaboration that addresses the strategic needs of both shores. The ultimate goal is to create a resilient, integrated African Atlantic corridor that supports local economies while connecting to global supply chains. Morocco’s leadership positions it as a central player in building an expanded Atlantic alliance where economic, energy, and security interests converge for mutual benefit.
For the United States, especially under a potential Trump administration, aligning with this Moroccan vision could invigorate U.S.-Africa policy by grounding it in local dynamics and African aspirations. Furthermore, the historical ties between the U.S. and Africa – especially Morocco – provide a foundation for this partnership. The first American peace and commerce treaty was signed with Morocco, the first country to recognize U.S. independence. This 1786 Moroccan-American Treaty of Peace and Friendship, still in effect today, symbolizes a longstanding alliance that could inspire a new era of economic and security cooperation.
However, Africa also faces significant geopolitical and security challenges. Terrorist activities in the Sahel, maritime security threats in the Gulf of Guinea, insurgencies in northern Mozambique, and ongoing crises in Central Africa require a coherent strategy tailored to local contexts. A renewed commitment from the U.S. to enhance stability would strengthen its partnership with Africa.
For the new Donald Trump Administration, reimagining U.S.-Africa relations offers an opportunity to deepen ties with the continent and position the U.S. as a trustworthy development partner. A modern approach inspired by the Moroccan-American Treaty of Peace and Friendship could lay the groundwork for fruitful cooperation in a world marked by shifting geopolitics.
Ultimately, adopting a new perspective on Africa requires the United States to recognize that the continent is far more than a reservoir of resources; it is an indispensable partner in fostering global stability. With certain nations playing pivotal roles in regional cohesion and development, this shift presents a unique opportunity for the U.S. to forge alliances based on mutual respect and to support Africa’s journey toward integration and sustainable growth.
To fully understand the shifting global power dynamics, the U.S. must move beyond outdated perceptions and embrace Africa’s rising influence within the international order. Africa is no longer merely a provider of raw materials; it has become a powerful force with essential resources, significant energy potential, and a vision for regional unity that aligns with global objectives of sustainability and resilience. If the U.S. aims to preserve its influence in this increasingly multipolar world, it must engage with Africa as a genuine partner, forging alliances based on respect and shared aspirations.
