Trump vs Harris: What each candidate’s win will mean for Africa
Africa, like many other continents, will be significantly impacted by the results of the U.S. elections slated for November 5, 2024.
Over the years, significant foreign policies established and or implemented by the U.S. have either positively or negatively affected African countries.
This year won’t be different, the emerging winner in the elections will largely determine the way forward as far as major policies regarding Africa and the rest of the world are concerned.
According to Ghanaian Political Analyst, Prof. Etse Sikanku, each candidate’s win could either promote a stronger international partnership or a more self-focused America.
A win by Republican candidate Donald Trump will mean his “America First” agenda will come into play and all other cooperation be limited and a Harris win also has dynamics leaning more towards international cooperation, he noted.
If Donald Trump wins, Prof. Sikanku says America is “going to return to its isolationism. America is going to turn back to nativism. America is going to take a backward seat, when it comes to global affairs. They'll be less interested in internationalism, less interested in international cooperation, less interested in multiculturalism”.
A Kamala Harris Administration on the other hand is expected to be more open to global engagement on the international front, he noted.
“Harris' presidency is going to be more internationalist in its perspective. It's going to be more multicultural. They'll be more interested in pursuing international cooperation agreements.”
What are the expectations from Africans?
There are expectations from African countries in major policy areas.
Trade
The next U.S. administration will have to decide on the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade deal, which lets African countries export duty-free to the U.S. The deal is due to expire in 2025 but many African nations are hoping that the act is expanded to cover more countries. However, a Harris administration could add strict requirements, while a Trump presidency might face pressure to limit African participation, especially for nations like South Africa.
Immigration
This has been a big area for Africans many of whom migrate to the U.S. to seek better opportunities. Immigration rules under the next U.S. president could affect African countries significantly. Trump has been known for his non-tolerance of undocumented immigrants and a travel ban on certain African nations during his first term. A renewed ban could target more African nations facing security issues. A Harris administration might keep vetting measures but may ease some restrictions.
Climate
Climate policy is another big issue for Africa, as the continent is vulnerable to climate impacts. African leaders want support for both fossil fuels and renewables to boost energy access. Trump could support fewer restrictions and Africa’s demand for fossil fuel financing. Harris on the other hand might prioritise renewables.
Military Cooperation
African leaders are watching U.S. military plans closely, especially after many U.S. troops have left Africa in recent times. A Trump administration may reduce U.S. forces even further, as his “America First” strategy questions U.S. interests in Africa. Harris, however, could keep current military support while focusing on local solutions to counter extremism. This approach aims to help Africa build its own security.
Ukraine
Africa has faced economic hardship due to the Ukraine war and sanctions on Russia. Trump promises a quick end to the war, which could ease Africa’s inflation issues. Harris might keep supporting Ukraine, risking further strain on African economies. Many African nations want to avoid choosing sides, but the U.S. stance could make neutrality difficult.
Social Issues
U.S. policies on social values, like LGBTQ rights, have affected African relations with Washington. Trump is likely to cut foreign aid linked to social values, while Harris who is a human rights advocate and prosecutor would likely continue Biden’s approach of supporting LGBTQ rights in Africa. Some African leaders see these conditions as “ideological colonialism” and support aid without strings.
Abortion rights
Under the Biden administration, Harris has backed reproductive health programs, including support for abortion rights, with U.S. funding going to global initiatives on women’s health. This approach is in contrast to Trump, who cut funding for such programs in his first term.
Watch the full interview here:
