ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE APRIL 2024

FEATURE / ANALYSIS
sparked concern, both domestically
and internationally.
In 2020, Trump implemented visa
restrictions on Nigeria and three
other African nations, exacerbating
challenges for young Nigerians
aspiring to study and work abroad.
Despite this, the desire among
Nigerian youth to pursue
opportunities globally has only
intensified. Throughout his tenure,
President Trump's policies often
proved unfavorable to Africa,
particularly regarding immigration
and visa regulations.
In contrast, President Biden's
administration has taken steps to
champion the rights of marginalised
communities, including those who
identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+).
Through economic and development
cooperation policies, Biden has
sought to promote inclusivity,
sending a signal of support to
LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.
However, perceptions of these efforts
in Africa may vary, reflecting the
complex socio-cultural landscape of
the continent and differing attitudes
towards LGBTQ+ rights across various
nations.
One of the ways in which the US
elections could affect Africa is
through foreign policy. The US
government plays a pivotal role in
shaping international relations,
including its engagement with
African nations. Depending on which
party wins the presidential election
and its priorities, there could be shifts
in US policy towards Africa.
From a security standpoint, the
United States holds a crucial role as a
cornerstone in the global efforts to
combat insurgencies across
numerous African nations,
particularly in the sub-continents of
West and East Africa. The US provides
support through various means,
including intelligence sharing, military
training, logistical assistance, and
diplomatic engagement.
This partnership is instrumental in
bolstering the capabilities of African
governments and regional security
forces to address threats posed by
insurgent groups such as Boko
Haram in Nigeria, Al-Shabaab in
Somalia, and various militant factions
in the Sahel region.
The outcome of the 2024 US
presidential election holds significant
implications for Africa's security
landscape, as it will determine the
In 2020, Trump
implemented
visa restrictions
on Nigeria and
three other
African nations,
exacerbating
challenges for
young Nigerians
aspiring to study
and work abroad.
continuity or shifts in US foreign policy
priorities, military engagements, and
aid allocations to address security
challenges on the continent. A
change in leadership could lead to
adjustments in strategy or levels of
commitment, impacting the
effectiveness of counter-insurgency
efforts and regional stability in Africa.
Trade is another aspect to consider.
The United States is a major trading
partner for several African countries,
and changes in US trade policies can
have far-reaching consequences.
The imposition of tariffs, changes in
trade agreements, or shifts in
economic priorities could impact
African economies, affecting
industries such as agriculture,
manufacturing, and technology.
Moreover, trade policies influenced
by the US elections could either
promote or hinder Africa's integration
into the global economy.
Furthermore, the outcome of the US
elections could influence
development aid and investment in
Africa. Historically, the US has been a
significant contributor to
development-assistance
programmes in the region,
supporting initiatives related to
health care, education, infrastructure,
and poverty alleviation. Depending
on the priorities of the incoming
administration, there may be
changes in the allocation of foreign
aid budgets or the focus of
development initiatives. This, in turn,
could affect the trajectory of social
and economic development in
African countries.
Beyond these tangible impacts, the
US elections also have symbolic
significance for Africa. The outcome
would send a message about the
values and priorities of the American
people and their leaders. It would
shape perceptions of democracy,
governance, and human rights on
the global stage, including Africa.
Moreover, the actions and rhetoric of
US leaders can influence political
dynamics within African countries,
inspiring or emboldening certain
movements.
While the US elections hold
significance for Africa, they are just
one piece of the puzzle. African
nations also have agency and
autonomy in shaping their own
destinies. They engage in bilateral
and multilateral relationships with a
range of global partners, pursue their
own domestic agendas, and
navigate geo-political dynamics in
their own right. These, too, will play
significant roles in how the outcome
of the US elections would impact
Africa.
ADEBAYO AFOLABI
AUTHOR’S BIO
I am a passionate business writer
with a knack for translating
complex concepts into accessible
content. With a keen eye for
detail, I deliver compelling
content that educates, inspires,
and drives positive change in the
realm of finance and business.
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