By John Ikani
American voters head to the polls on Tuesday to elect the 47th president, a decision that will impact not just the U.S. but much of the world.
This election has drawn significant international interest.
In a tight contest, Vice President Kamala Harris, running for the Democrats, competes with former President Donald Trump, the Republican candidate.
The result will have global ramifications, including in Africa, though neither candidate has proposed specific policies for the continent.
In Trump’s previous term, Africa was largely sidelined.
He didn’t visit the continent and overlooked critical African issues like climate change.
Still, Trump introduced the Prosper Africa initiative, aimed at expanding U.S. investment and supporting Africa’s rising middle class.
If he wins another term, Trump is likely to prioritize domestic interests, consistent with his “America First” platform.
Harris visited three African countries in March 2023, but her Africa policy is expected to stay in line with Biden’s approach.
Observers believe she may continue Biden’s stance, focusing on economic partnerships without major policy shifts.
Biden, while not highly engaged with African issues, is scheduled to visit Angola in December, wrapping up his term with an emphasis on economic connections with African nations.
