Trump vs. Biden: What the U.S election means for Africa

In a world where geopolitical decisions have far-reaching consequences, the upcoming U.S. elections hold significant importance not only for Americans but for countries around the globe, including those in Africa. Matthias Chika Mordi, an Adjunct Professor at SAIS – John Hopkins, highlighted the pivotal role that the U.S. economy and foreign policies play on a global scale, shedding light on how the outcome of the presidential race between Vice President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump could impact Africa. Mordi emphasized that the U.S. economy's size and influence are unparalleled, with the U.S. holding a substantial portion of foreign reserves and being a major player in international trade. This economic dominance inherently ties the fate of other nations to U.S. policies and decisions. The U.S.'s defense spending and power projection capabilities also contribute to its global influence, shaping security dynamics worldwide. Moreover, U.S. involvement in global health crises, such as COVID-19, underscores the country's role in shaping global responses to emergencies. The decision-making of the U.S. president can thus have ripple effects that extend far beyond its borders. When comparing the presidential candidates, Mordi pointed out that both Biden and Trump have pros and cons regarding their potential impact on Nigeria and Africa as a whole. President Trump's isolationist approach and policies have led to reduced international engagement, including with Africa, while Biden's platform emphasizes global cooperation, climate change initiatives, and a more open approach to immigration. Biden's focus on renewable energy also holds promise for reducing the environmental impact of oil production, which remains significant in Nigeria's economy. The outcome of the U.S. elections could therefore determine the level of U.S. involvement in African affairs, including trade relations, security cooperation, and development initiatives. Regarding U.S. foreign policy in Africa, Mordi highlighted that the U.S. traditionally prioritizes energy and counterterrorism in its engagement with the continent. However, the rise of Chinese economic influence in Africa has prompted a reassessment of U.S. priorities in the region. Increased Chinese presence has led to heightened U.S. interest in Africa, particularly as China's expansion challenges American economic influence. Mordi noted that a potential shift in the U.S. administration could lead to greater engagement with Africa, presenting opportunities for economic growth and collaboration. As the U.S. navigates its foreign relations post-election, African countries stand poised to leverage these dynamics to their advantage. As the world awaits the outcome of the U.S. elections, the implications for Africa and the global economy remain significant. The decisions made by the incoming U.S. administration will shape international relations, economic partnerships, and security cooperation on a global scale. African nations, in particular, will be keenly watching the developments, as the U.S.'s actions and policies will undoubtedly impact the continent's trajectory. The intersection of politics, economics, and foreign policy in the U.S. elections underscores the interconnectedness of nations in an increasingly globalized world.