Washington, D.C. – On January 20, 2025, Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, making a comeback to the White House after his first term ended in 2021. The ceremony, held indoors due to cold weather, was attended by key U.S. leaders and international guests.

In his inaugural address, Trump reiterated his promise to prioritize “America First” policies. Declaring a new “golden age” for the United States, he focused on protecting U.S. borders, reviving domestic manufacturing, and boosting energy independence. “We will make America great again, greater than ever before,” Trump said, emphasizing his commitment to reshaping the country’s economy and global standing.
What This Means for Africa?

For African countries, Trump’s return as president raises questions about how he will approach the continent. During his first term, Trump’s focus was mainly on trade and security, with less attention to aid programs. Important initiatives like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which fights HIV/AIDS in Africa, continued but faced budget reviews.
Trump’s push for U.S. energy independence could affect African oil-exporting countries like Nigeria and Angola. If the U.S. relies more on its own resources, it could mean fewer exports from Africa.
His immigration plans, including ending birthright citizenship, may also make it harder for African students and workers to move to the U.S. On security, Trump’s plans to target criminal groups could influence how the U.S. supports African nations in fighting groups like Boko Haram and al-Shabaab.
Although Trump did not mention Africa in his speech, his policies may still affect the continent. African countries might need to find new ways to grow their economies and rely less on foreign aid.
As Trump begins his second term, Africa and the rest of the world will watch closely to see how his leadership shapes global relationships.