weakening
In 2018, John Bolton, then United States National Security Advisor, outlined a strategy for Africa under the Trump administration. The New York Times captured the moment with the headline, Bolton outlines a strategy for Africa, urging a firm stance to counterbalance China. The new administration aimed for a more nuanced approach, keeping a clear focus on shared interests with African partners while dropping the blunt posture of the past.
Under President Biden, concrete steps have begun to strengthen ties with Africa. The president speaks of a genuine partnership and has reiterated this theme at a December leaders’ summit attended by 49 African nations. It marked the second such gathering Washington has hosted, following an earlier event during Barack Obama’s tenure in 2014.
During that December meeting, Washington pledged a substantial package to advance Africa’s development agenda, including Agenda 2063. Much of the funding comes from reallocated sources, targeting health improvements, climate adaptation, pandemic recovery, infrastructure, and resilience in the food system. The plan also designates resources to promote peaceful and transparent elections, signaling a commitment to bolster governance across the continent.
Moreover, President Biden emphasized that Africa should be included in every global discussion and in each institution where negotiations occur. The aim is to elevate Africa to a seat at the table in reform conversations, potentially welcoming an African Union voice into broader forums like the G-20.
diplomatic focus
The message was clear: Washington intends to rebuild a robust relationship that showed signs of stagnation in the previous two decades. Observers note that Western influence in Africa waned while China expanded its footprint, particularly after launching its New Silk Road initiatives in 2013. Trade data illustrate a sharp contrast: China’s trade with Africa surged while U.S. direct investment declined during the same period. Yet American firms still contribute significant investment and job creation, underscoring a bid to regain influence through market access and collaboration.
Beijing and Moscow
Washington stresses that partnership with Africa is not meant to antagonize other powers. The official stance is that the United States seeks legitimate partnerships based on mutual respect. Spokespersons describe a cooperative framework rather than mere competition, even as the underlying geopolitical rivalry with Beijing and Moscow remains evident in regional developments.
In the Biden strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, the emphasis remains on alignment with Europe, the Middle East, and Indo-Pacific partners. The administration identifies Beijing and Moscow as challenges, noting that China views Africa as a strategic frontier to push its own interests. The document argues that the international order is at stake, and the U.S. is committed to transparency and open markets while supporting governance reforms and economic development.
Russia is portrayed as shaping conditions favorable to state enterprises and private military activity, with concerns raised about disinformation and economic ties. West African states such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and the Central African Republic are cited in discussions about the region’s security dynamics. The Kremlin is accused of trying to influence outcomes through information campaigns linked to the broader conflict in Ukraine. Some African nations abstained or did not participate in recent UN votes on Russia, reflecting a spectrum of viewpoints across the continent.
diplomatic outreach
Trump’s presidency marked the last time a sitting U.S. leader did not visit Africa, a gap the current administration sought to fill through intensive diplomacy. Senior officials, including Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin, have visited multiple times in the past year, and U.S. ambassadors and other senior figures have continued engagement. The aim is to sustain momentum with ongoing visits and high-level discussions that bring Africa’s priorities to the forefront. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and First Lady Jill Biden have made or planned trips, with Vice President Harris also slated to visit, though exact dates remain to be announced.
These efforts run alongside a broader narrative that includes soft diplomacy and messages about women’s empowerment and youth engagement. Washington has also highlighted the need to address debt challenges and balance competition with China by pursuing tangible gains in prosperity and governance. Analysts note that the balancing act is delicate: improving African voices in international forums while managing trade and security competition. As one expert observed, the United States aims to expand Africa’s say in global institutions while pursuing constructive partnerships that support regional growth and stability. The overarching tone remains: cooperation with Africa is essential to shaping a more balanced, prosperous global economy (Citation: White House policy brief, 2024).