Emmanuel Ochayi
From international trade to global health, Trump’s actions since taking office are expected to affect lives and livelihoods across the world, including Africa. Following his return to the White House, Trump quickly signed several executive orders, marking a shift in his policy approach as reported by Prime Business Africa. These orders, central to his “America First” agenda, focus on reshaping the US’s relationships with the world, especially when it comes to foreign aid, climate change, and trade.
During the heated election campaign, Trump promised to make significant changes right from his first day in office. His decisions, which immediately followed his inauguration, focused on immigration, trade, and global health. Here are five key executive orders that are expected to affect Africa, particularly countries like Nigeria.
Join our WhatsApp Channel1. Suspension of Foreign Assistance Programmes
Trump’s executive order halting US foreign development assistance for 90 days is one of the most concerning. The freeze will delay disbursement of aid funds and review how these programs align with US foreign policy. He stated that foreign aid programs, especially in Africa, often do not align with American values or contribute effectively to US economic and environmental goals. He added, “The foreign aid industry and bureaucracy are not aligned with American interests.”
This freeze could lead to the reallocation of resources, with stricter conditions attached, especially to African countries like Nigeria, which receives substantial aid. As European donors shift focus to in-country assistance and supporting Ukraine, Africa could face even more challenges in securing foreign aid.
2. External Revenue Service
Under his “America First” trade policy, Trump’s decision to establish an External Revenue Service aims to collect tariffs and duties from foreign countries, including those in Africa. This move could disrupt international trade, particularly for nations exporting primary goods to the US. Taiwo Oyedele, Nigeria’s tax reform chairman, noted, “Trump’s decision highlights the importance of Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms to better navigate these challenges.”
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Dr Mike Udu an economist added, “Trump’s plan to impose tariffs could hurt countries in Africa that rely on AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act).” If the US pulls back on AGOA, African nations that export textiles and other goods could see a decline in their trade volumes with the US, affecting job markets and economies across the continent.
3. Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement
Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Agreement has sparked concerns worldwide, particularly in Africa, where countries already face the devastating impacts of climate change. Trump has long been a critic of climate change policies, and his administration’s withdrawal from the agreement threatens to derail progress made globally in combating climate change.
Trump’s stance on climate change could delay international cooperation to address climate issues that directly affect countries in Africa. Furthermore, Trump’s actions may lead to a reduction in funding for climate resilience projects that African countries rely on.
4. Withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO)
Trump’s executive order to withdraw the US from the WHO is another decision with significant implications for global health, particularly in Africa. During his first term, Trump criticized the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the organization’s financial commitments. He accused the WHO of demanding “unfairly onerous payments from the US,” a reference to China’s lower contributions.
The US is a key donor to the WHO, and without its support, Africa could face even greater health crises. Trump’s decision could undermine efforts to fight diseases and address health emergencies on the continent.
5. National Energy Emergency
Trump’s move to bolster fossil fuel exploration and push for greater energy production within the US could have lasting consequences for Africa’s energy markets. By increasing domestic energy production, the US may become a stronger competitor to African energy exporters, particularly countries like Nigeria and Angola.
Trump’s rollback of climate-focused policies could lead to a reduction in US support for renewable energy initiatives globally. If the US pulls back from funding clean energy projects, African countries may have to rely on other international players for support. However, Trump’s energy policy could attract more American investment in Africa’s mineral sector, which may lead to both positive and negative consequences.
Experts worry that while such investments may create jobs and infrastructure, they could also exacerbate governance issues, especially in countries with weak regulatory frameworks.
Africa Faces New Challenges
Trump’s series of executive orders has the potential to reshape the relationship between the US and Africa. From foreign aid cuts to trade tariffs and a retreat from international climate and health efforts, these decisions could deepen the challenges African nations already face.
Experts are emphasizing that the impact on Africa will depend on how African governments adapt to these changes. While the US may pull back in certain areas, it could also open up opportunities for new trade deals and partnerships. However, the overall outcome will depend largely on how African countries navigate the complex and shifting geopolitical landscape created by Trump’s policies.
