The upcoming US presidential election has implications for US-Africa relations, with both candidates, President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, having clear positions on the matter. Trump’s controversial remarks about some African nations as “shithole countries” and his lack of visits to Africa during his presidency contrast with Harris’s visits to Ghana, Zambia, and Tanzania, where she emphasized the importance of partnership and investment opportunities.
Economic development and security are key priorities for African countries, according to Priyal Singh, a senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies. While Africa may be a secondary priority in US foreign policy, the election outcome will impact African nations. Many African countries are concerned about security issues and seek a more proactive role from the United States in achieving stability. Economic development is a top priority for other African nations, with hopes for the expansion of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
The future of AGOA, which provides tariff-free access to US markets for eligible African countries, is uncertain as it expires in 2025. Singh believes that under Harris, there would be greater foreign policy certainty, as she is expected to continue the general foreign policy direction set by the Biden administration. The Biden-Harris administration has already formalized the 2022 Strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on investment in larger African states and strengthening ties with medium and smaller states.
On the other hand, Trump’s unpredictability raises concerns among African countries, as he is seen as a wildcard with a greater level of uncertainty. During his administration, US-Africa relations deteriorated, and Africa was deprioritized. However, certain countries with strategic importance, especially those hosting US military bases, may benefit from increased investment under a Trump administration.
Regardless of the election outcome, Africa is likely to remain a secondary focus in US foreign policy. Harris offers continuity and predictability, which could be welcomed by African leaders, while Trump’s unpredictability may present challenges despite his previous experience as president. The influence of either candidate on African countries remains uncertain, but their positions on economic development, security, and trade agreements will shape future US-Africa relations.
