As Donald Trump embarks on his second term as President of the United States, the world watches closely to see how his policies will shape global affairs. For Africa, this presidency presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly in light of his administration’s diplomatic approach. The shift in U.S. foreign policy could have profound consequences for Africa’s economic, health, and security landscapes.
One of the most immediate and significant changes is the dismantling of USAID, an agency that has played a crucial role in Africa’s development for decades. USAID has funded various initiatives, from healthcare programs that provide HIV/AIDS treatment to agricultural projects aimed at improving food security. The sudden withdrawal of this aid is already having visible effects. The World Health Organization has warned that eight African countries, including Kenya, could soon run out of essential HIV treatments due to these aid cuts. This threatens to reverse decades of progress in the fight against the disease.
Beyond healthcare, the removal of USAID also affects education, infrastructure, and poverty reduction programs. The Trump administration’s decision to eliminate over 90% of foreign aid contracts amounting to approximately $60 billion means that thousands of projects that once supported African communities are now at risk of being abandoned. For countries like Kenya, which have relied on U.S. assistance to fund initiatives in public health, economic development, and governance, this policy shift forces a reassessment of future strategies for progress.
At the same time, Trump’s administration has indicated a shift in its approach to Africa, with a greater focus on security rather than development aid. The U.S. has pledged to increase support for military training and intelligence-sharing with African nations, arguing that this will help combat extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab and Boko Haram. While stronger security cooperation is beneficial, an overemphasis on military solutions without addressing underlying socio-economic issues could create further instability. The reduction of development aid and the prioritization of military assistance may suggest that the U.S. sees Africa more as a security concern than as an economic partner.
For Africa, these developments signal a critical moment of self-reflection. The continent has long been dependent on foreign aid, and the abrupt policy shifts by major powers like the U.S. highlight the risks of such dependency. While the reduction in foreign aid presents immediate challenges, it also provides an opportunity for African nations to rethink their approach to economic sustainability. Governments must now prioritize self-reliance by strengthening regional trade, investing in local industries, and fostering innovation. Initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could play a crucial role in reducing the continent’s dependency on external assistance by promoting economic integration and intra-African trade.
The disbandment of USAID and the broader reduction of U.S. financial support also calls for a reassessment of diplomatic alliances. While the United States has been a key development partner, African nations may now seek stronger relationships with other global powers such as China, the European Union, and emerging economies like India and Brazil. These nations have increasingly invested in Africa’s infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, offering alternatives to Western aid models. However, it is essential for African leaders to negotiate fair agreements that prioritize local interests rather than falling into new forms of dependency.
Despite the challenges posed by Trump’s second term, this period could serve as a wake-up call for African nations to invest more in homegrown solutions. If governments take bold steps to strengthen governance, reduce corruption, and support local enterprises, the continent can emerge stronger and more resilient. The withdrawal of U.S. aid is undoubtedly disruptive, but it also provides Africa with a chance to shape its own destiny without relying on the goodwill of foreign powers.
While the U.S. has made clear that its priorities have shifted away from Africa’s development needs, the continent must respond not with despair, but with determination. The coming years will test Africa’s ability to adapt and innovate in the face of changing global dynamics. This is not just a challenge—it is an opportunity to redefine Africa’s role in the world and build a future driven by self-sufficiency, unity, and strategic partnerships.
By Tom Onyango