The 2024 US presidential election has drawn global attention, with African leaders and economies closely watching the outcomes that could shape US-Africa relations for years to come. Both candidates, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, have contrasting approaches that could influence trade, investment, and security across Africa.
Under Trump’s previous administration, the US introduced the Prosper Africa initiative, a policy intended to streamline business dealings and increase trade between the US and African nations. However, his administration was often criticized for prioritizing US commercial interests over local African needs. If re-elected, Trump is expected to continue this business-first approach, likely maintaining some form of Prosper Africa to advance US interests, while emphasizing geopolitical competition with China and Russia, both of which have established robust ties across the continent.
Kamala Harris, in contrast, has demonstrated a commitment to multilateralism. Her tenure as Vice President saw significant visits to African nations, emphasizing the importance of partnership and support for democratic institutions. If Harris wins the presidency, experts suggest her administration may prioritize extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows African nations preferential access to US markets. This approach could strengthen US-Africa trade ties while addressing democratic values and social issues—a strategy that would mark a shift from the transactional nature of Trump’s policies.
Both potential administrations, however, face a rapidly changing Africa. Rising geopolitical influences, economic diversification, and a young population are positioning the continent as a critical global player. For Africa, the outcomes of the 2024 US election could reshape trade, security, and diplomatic dynamics, underscoring the strategic role Africa plays in an interconnected world.