Saturday November 9, 2024
Nelson Mandela once said It always seems impossible until it’s done, these words came to reality Tuesday night when Donald Trump surpassed the crucial 270 electoral votes needed to win the U.S. presidency becoming the 47th president. Trumps win is not only historical due to his win but his resilience, sustained influence and appeal among voters despite his past controversies which include numerous court cases. His path resembles that of Grover Cleveland, who served from 1885 to 1889 and from 1893 to 1897 and was the first U.S president to be elected in non-consecutive presidential times, truly history does repeat itself. Just like Cleveland, and with almost similar critisms, Trump has proved everyone wrong and established his standing place in American political system. His re-election induces new hope and a set of new reactions and in the global context and countries particular those across Africa what does his presidency mean to the world, existing conflict, and economy?
Trump’s return to power comes at a time when the world faces critical crises: the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel, severe war in Ukraine, and increasing geopolitical tensions. His return to the White House could signal a renewed emphasis on peace making mechanisms. To Africa, the presence of peace would be music to the ears because we are currently bearing the blunt of these conflicts. I believe that the Trump’s administration with its experience of economical rationalism has the potential to address these issues with policies aimed at restoring peace. It is an opportunity for the United States to fight for diplomacy in these international crises, which would create a safe and more secure environment for African nations heavily impacted by fluctuations in global markets and the associated social disruptions.
Africa currently continues to feel the consequences of the Ukraine war and its effects in the shape of inflation and soaring commodities prices and the supply chain that has greatly affected the continent’s economies. Western-led sanctions on Russia, especially on basic goods including Wheat and fertilizer have led to food insecurities in Africa ; with countries including Somalia, Kenya, Egypt,south Sudan and Nigeria being the most affected. For somalia already struggling with climate change effects; famine, terrorism and economic vulnerabilities, the rise in food prices has further threatened the well-being of the population. However, Trump’s pragmatic stance on energy self-sufficiency and globalization could be a blessing for African countries if his regime chooses to support a de-escalation of the Ukraine conflict and thus stabilizing food and energy costs.
In Middle East crises; the Palestine and Israel conflict continues to heighten this year to a level that has compelled humanitarian interferences due to a higher propensity of civilian casualties especially women and children. The cost of this conflict on human lives, therefore, serves to call for diplomatic solution to the conflict. Africa as a continent that experienced the pain of colonialism and the terrible impacts of tribalism during transition to independence has interest in peaceful settlement of these conflicts which would lead to better coexistence and a better global economy. The world is now at a stage where a repeat of the world war is probable and thus the leaders of the West and the East should think of de-escalation-of these conflicts and welcome peace. The whole global community needs to stand for the two-state solution that will define the respect for the human dignity of both the Palestinians and Israelis, creating conditions for a stable peace.
While analysing the competition between China and the United States in Africa, there seems to be a shift, China has positioned itself as a partner addressing Africa’s challenges, through significant investments infrastructure a commitment that the U.S. has not matched in recent years. The United States now under Trump’s leadership should then rethink their support to Africa and make make significant contribution by backing governance, development, and security programs that will assist African states to sustain their independence and development. This type of cooperation would help African leaders build solid-state institutions which would in turn help the continent build nations that are firm enough to confront global challenges without being overwhelmed by outside forces.
A Trump win could have a mixed impact on Somalia,particularly given Somalia's strategic location, security challenges, and ongoing development needs. It could mean Increased Counter-terrorism Support since Trump previously took a hard stance on terrorism, including drone strikes and support for counter-terrorism operations. A Trump administration thus might increase military engagement and funding to combat Al-Shabaab, which will stabilize and support Somali government efforts towards a conflict free Somalia. Economically Trump’s administration might prefer direct, specific agreements with Somalia on trade or security matters, rather than working through multilateral institutions. This approach will bring a better Focus on Bilateral Agreements giving Somalia an opportunity to negotiate terms that cater to its economic priorities. This focus on Bilateral Agreement also means that our county will strengthen ties with neighbouring countries and regional institutions, such as the African Union and IGAD, for economic and security support. This could promote regional cooperation and encourage Somalia to develop internal resources and local capacity.
Africa’s aspirations for growth and development align with a global need for stability and cooperative partnerships. Trump’s return to office may signal a renewed emphasis on a pragmatic approach to U.S.-Africa relations, where mutual benefit, peace, and economic empowerment take precedence. Africa’s young population and vast resources position places it on the peak of transformation, the United States thus has a significant role to play in supporting this journey. Africa’s progress relies not only on internal resolve but also on a stable and supportive global environment. The hope now is that under Trump’s leadership, the United States will champion policies that contribute to Africa’s aspirations, recognizing the continent’s potential as a key partner on the global stage. This moment offers a chance to reshape U.S.-Africa relations in a way that fosters enduring progress and prosperity.
In the words of Margaret Thatcher “Watch your thoughts, for they will become actions. Watch your actions, for they’ll become your habits. Watch your habits, for they will forge your character. Watch your character, for it will make your destiny.’’ Trump's political persona has shaped his political destiny, highlighting the importance of consistency in leadership, it is this consistency that we are banking on believing that the he will commit to enlarge on the African predicament – including infrastructure, healthcare and education provision, particularly within conflict-strewn societies.
President Biden and previous presidencies pledged to back African-owned initiatives to foster peace and deepen trade and investment; coming good with those and similar common pledges is now required. As Trump resumes the presidency, both the U.S. and African leaders must be held accountable for implementing policies that prioritize Africa’s development, ensuring that such commitments result in lasting change. For countries like Somalia, targeted U.S. support that focuses on economic resilience rather than short-term aid could lay the foundation for a self-sufficient future, building a nation capable of overcoming decades of instability.
As I congratulate Trump and welcome him back my hope is that under his leadership, the United States will champion policies that contribute to Africa’s aspirations, recognizing the continent’s potential as a key partner on the global stage. This moment offers a chance to reshape U.S.-Africa relations in a way that fosters enduring progress and prosperity.
Mr Sadik Warfa, Consultant in international relations, governance and labor, is a Former Minister of Labour and Social Affairs and also served as Member of Federal Parliament for Mudug Constituency,Somalia.