#Editorial

GOOD MORNING MR PRESIDENT: Maintaining cordial US-Africa relations

Nov 11, 2024, 10:01 AM

Mr President, we extend our congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump on his decisive victory in the United States, where he won both the popular vote and the electoral college, securing gets 312 after winning Arizona compared to Kamala Harris’s 223.

As he returns to the White House for a second term, we hope and pray for positive outcomes, both for his administration and for Africa, especially for the African community in the United States. We remain concerned about the well-being of Africans in the U.S. and hope that President-elect Trump will reconsider his immigration policies, which will impact 12 million migrants, including thousands of Africans. Of some vital consideration is the fact that Africans in the U.S. contribute significantly to growth and economic development across the African continent.

Mr President, at the upcoming African summit, it would be ideal for African leaders to produce a memorandum with statement of appeal urging the U.S. President and his administration to reconsider any policies that might result in the expulsion of Africans from the U.S., as such actions could have serious consequences for Africa’s economy and security. Africa and the U.S. are allies and should work together as partners in development, peace, and security. Our shared history and family bonds, including the many Africans who are married to Americans and have children, further strengthen these ties.

Mr President, we hope that this time, after Mr Trump assumes office on January 20, 2025, he will pay a visit to the welcoming continent of Africa, a visit he was unable to make during his previous term.

In line with the world peace quest, it was encouraging to hear Mr Trump, in his victory speech on November 6, pledge to work towards brokering peace between Israel and Palestine as well as between Russia and Ukraine, aiming to bring these conflicts to an end.

Mr President, also considering some vital socioeconomic sectors, we would like to appeal to the U.S. to accelerate support to Africa in the energy sector, even fulfilling the commitment President Obama made in 2014, which is yet to be realised. Support to improve infrastructure and airlines are also essential to boost trade between the continent and the U.S. In the same vein, it is crucial to address visa issues for legitimate visitors and students. Also, Africa needs more trained doctors, engineers, and ICT experts.

Finally, on security the U.S. should help greatly by assisting with equipment and training, as the jihadists and the Russian mercenary group Wagner are gaining momentum in the Sahel region.

Good day!