New US Africa policy needs investment support

Significance

Promising more equal partnerships, wider diplomatic engagement and a values-first approach to countering democratic backsliding and authoritarianism, the new strategy promises a more consistent, “whole of government” approach to US-Africa relations. However, counterterrorism and countering the influence of China and Russia remain at the heart of the new policy document.

Impacts

• The new strategy charts a clear path forward for US-led energy and climate adaptation investments in Africa.
• Promises of new, innovative public diplomacy efforts will be hampered by shortages of relevant State Department employees.
• The new strategy’s impact on US engagement with conflict and terrorism in Ethiopia, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel is unclear.