A TALE OF TWO PRESIDENTS:

Unraveling Trump and Biden’s African Diplomacy

The diplomatic endeavors of both former President Trump and President Biden regarding Africa reveal notable parallels, portraying an encouraging outlook on the continent’s potential. Highlighting the significance of collaborative partnerships, their respective strategies aim to tackle mutual priorities such as healthcare, pandemic readiness, and environmental concerns, while also urging allies to address issues like human rights, corruption, and authoritarian tendencies.

Both administrations are steadfast in their commitment to nurturing democracies across African nations, advocating for the rule of law, and thwarting terrorist expansion in the region. Economic prosperity in Africa is a shared focal point, with President Biden’s strategy recognizing the transformative growth potential and motivating both administrations to foster economic linkages with the continent. Notably, Trump’s approach uniquely contextualizes this commitment within the broader landscape of China’s escalating economic influence in Africa, providing a nuanced perspective on their strategies.

During the tenure of President Donald Trump (2017–2021), his engagement with Africa was characterized by a relatively restrained focus compared to other regions. The administration did not accord Africa the priority it deserved in terms of foreign policy, resulting in fewer highlevel interactions with African leaders. Trump’s skepticism towards foreign aid was evident, as proposed cuts raised concerns, particularly regarding global health initiatives in Africa.

While significant policy initiatives targeting Africa in terms of trade are lacking, a transactional approach could potentially impact the continent. Security efforts are predominantly centered on counterterrorism, featuring military operations against extremist factions. Trump’s immigration policies, including travel restrictions, indirectly affected immigrants from African nations, eliciting concerns and criticisms. It is imperative to acknowledge Africa’s diverse landscape, as the nature of relationships varied between the U.S. and individual African countries during Trump’s presidency, characterized by an overall diminished focus on the continent compared to other global regions.

The advent of President Joe Biden’s administration heralded a shift in the United States’ engagement with Africa, promising a more respectful and collaborative approach in contrast to the preceding administration’s stance. Under the leadership of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the new administration acknowledges Africa’s dynamic growth trajectory, its youthful demographic, and its significant international influence as one of the UN’S 55 member states.

Security policy, particularly in combating Islamist extremism, remains a cornerstone of U.S. Africa policy. The establishment of military bases in 15 African countries, primarily situated in the Sahel and Horn of Africa regions, underscores the commitment to thwarting jihadist groups. However, there are no explicit indications of heightened military involvement or alterations in counterterrorism strategies under the Biden administration.

Economically, the United States faces challenges in rivaling China, Africa’s foremost trading partner. While initiatives such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) have facilitated African exports to the U.S., China’s economic ties with the continent have surged ahead. Efforts to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative through the Better Utilization of Investments Leading to Development Act (BUILD Act) have been initiated, yet a comprehensive U.S. strategy for economic engagement with African nations remains forthcoming.

Development cooperation, notably in the healthcare sector, has been a pivotal aspect of U.S. engagement. Initiatives like PEPFAR and PMI, aimed at combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, have received substantial funding. Despite attempts by the Trump administration to curtail development aid, funding levels remained robust, with new programs like “Prosper Africa” being introduced. While the Biden administration has not signaled a significant increase in development assistance, key personnel appointments suggest a continued focus on health and development issues.

Climate change has emerged as a potential cornerstone of Biden’s Africa policy. Collaboration with African states in UN climate conferences and endeavors to reduce dependence on fossil fuels could assume central importance. Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic is also prioritized, drawing upon U.S. expertise garnered from combating the Ebola epidemic. This presents opportunities for collaboration with the EU and Germany in bolstering healthcare systems and vaccination campaigns.

The promotion of democracy, human rights, and good governance has been a consistent, albeit occasionally disjointed, aspect of U.S. policy. Despite verbal commitments, tangible support for democracy constitutes a minor fraction of USAID programs. The Biden administration has articulated a commitment to fostering democracy, both domestically and internationally, with plans for a “Summit of Democracies.”

On the global stage, the Biden administration signals a return to multilateralism, advocating support for key international organizations. Cooperation with African states assumes paramount importance, not merely as part of a geopolitical maneuver against China but also in recognition of the significant agency that the continent possesses.

While a fundamental overhaul of U.S. Africa policy is not anticipated, the Biden administration presents fresh avenues for collaboration in healthcare, climate action, and democracy promotion. Expectations should be tempered with realism, given the U.S. focus on geopolitical competition with China. Coordinated efforts with international partners, particularly in multilateral initiatives, have the potential to bolster U.s.-africa cooperation across diverse spheres.

Both administrations are steadfast in their commitment to nurturing democracies across African nations, advocating for the rule of law, and thwarting terrorist expansion in the region.