Newly released strategy document highlights America’s plans to stay relevant in Africa, amid China’s rising influence
The United States of America said it intends to reset its foreign relations with African countries and widen its level of engagement as part of a new strategy to advance its strategic objectives in...
The United States of America said it intends to reset its foreign relations with African countries and widen its level of engagement as part of a new strategy to advance its strategic objectives in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In the document, the US Government commended Sub-Saharan Africa for its irrefutable relevance in world affairs, especially especially with respect to its population, diverse ecosystems, large market size, etc.
Therefore, because of these attributes, the USA is interested in maintaining its relationship with the region by fostering development, peace and economic stability.
The document explained that “the strategy articulates our new vision for a 21st Century U.S.-African Partnership. It recognizes the tremendous, positive opportunities that exist to advance shared interests alongside our African partners.”
The document further revealed that the new US-Africa strategy represents a “reframing” of how important Africa is to the United State’s national security interest, especially at a point that Chinese influence on the continent is growing.
Below are the four main strategic objectives the US will pursue in Sub-Saharan Africa, as stipulated in the strategy document.
- Foster openness and open societies: The US said it remains committed to continually encouraging an open market across SSA. And it will do this by promoting transparency and accountability in the governance process, upholding the rule of law and assisting Africans to leverage their abundant natural resources for sustainable development.
- Deliver democratic and security dividends: The US believes that the ability to maintain democracy and prevent conflicts in SSA would lead to favourable outcomes for both the region and the US. To this end, the US said it remains committed to “stem the recent tide of authoritarianism and military takeovers”. In the same vein, it will empower civil societies to defend electoral freedom and empower the capacity of its African partners to advance regional security and stability. This strategy also entails fighting terrorism.
- Advance pandemic recovery and economic recovery: The US will prioritise policies seeking to end the pandemic in Africa and support initiatives for vaccine manufacturing. It will also support debt sustainability programmes to assist SSA’s post-pandemic economic recovery.
- Lastly, the US will support conservation, climate adaptation and a just energy transition.
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