Trump policies could be beneficial for Africa, say young Africans
Among the perceived benefits are enhanced security cooperation, youth empowerment, military support, and counterterrorism.
A recent survey reveals that a significant majority of young Africans, around 58-60%, hold optimistic views regarding the potential positive impact of the Trump administration's policies on their future. This positive sentiment marks a shift from previous years, when policies under Joe Biden were perceived as more beneficial. The survey, conducted in 16 African countries, found that enhanced security cooperation, youth empowerment, military support, and counterterrorism are among the perceived benefits of the Trump administration.
Despite the administration's dismantling of the USAID and a 35% reduction in US aid disbursements to Africa, about 26% of young Africans believe these cuts will force leaders to address domestic challenges directly. However, more than half of the youth (53%) identify healthcare services and disease prevention as the areas most affected by these cuts.
Trump's travel ban and transactional policies, such as tying healthcare support to data sharing, and the pursuit of a US infrastructure project for rare earth mining in Zambia, have also been controversial in Africa. While many young Africans encourage their leaders to engage with Trump for advantageous ties, 42% believe their leaders should stand up to Trump to protect their country's interests.
South Africans are particularly skeptical, with 71% of respondents opposing cooperation with Trump due to his repeated allegations of anti-white discrimination. Concern over the US disregarding international law to gain access to natural resources is highest in South Africa and Liberia, at 70%.
Written by urgent.news from Africa Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
