- The US election and the outcome tend to have a ripple effect on many countries that depend on the policies of the nation deemed as the most powerful on earth
- Some of the African democracies are wary of a Donald Trump presidency, owing to his strict policies in critical areas like immigration
- Africa exports labour to the US in exchange for remittances, and the sceptics now fear Trump’s regime might deport or discriminate against the immigrants
By virtue of being the most powerful nation, the vote in the United States has caught the attention of the entire world.
Key Players in the U.S. 2024 Election: Trump vs. Harris
The U.S. 2024 presidential race is heating up with notable contenders from both major parties. Former President Donald Trump, representing the Republican Party, aims to reclaim the White House he occupied from 2016 to 2020.
Meanwhile, current Vice President Kamala Harris, running on the Democratic ticket, aspires to make history as the first female president of the United States.
Her victory would also mark a significant milestone as she continues to break barriers as a woman of African and South Asian descent.
Africa’s Stakes in the U.S. Election
The impact of U.S. leadership is felt worldwide, with third-world countries closely following the election’s potential outcomes.
This interest is particularly strong in Africa, which shares longstanding cultural and economic ties with the U.S. Kenya, for instance, is home to over 160,000 nationals living and working in the U.S.
Africans are divided over the candidates, with many favoring Harris for her policies that appear more lenient toward immigration and the global south.
Trump’s stance on “America First,” however, appeals to certain factions who see his hardline approach as a path toward restoring conservative values.
Is a Trump Presidency Good for Kenyans?
African political analyst Billy Mijungu argues that Africa faces a unique dilemma as it watches the U.S. election unfold.
Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign and his stringent stance on immigration could lead to policies that limit opportunities for African nationals in the U.S. Trump’s “America First” perspective may appeal to his conservative followers in Africa, yet it raises concerns for those who view immigration as a lifeline to economic advancement.
Many in Kenya wonder if a second Trump term might mean a reduction in U.S. support and a harder immigration pathway.
Key Issues: LGBTQ Rights and Abortion Policies
Mijungu observes that Africa’s values—particularly around LGBTQ rights and abortion—are a significant dividing line between the candidates.
Kamala Harris advocates strongly for LGBTQ rights and broader abortion access, aligning with progressive ideals.
In contrast, Trump’s more traditional stance on social issues aligns with the values of conservative African communities where homosexuality remains criminalized and abortion is restricted or outright banned.
“One of the most significant areas where Africa is torn is the issue of values—specifically around LGBTQ rights and abortion,” Mijungu says. He notes that Harris’s advocacy for these rights resonates with Western liberal values but can be controversial within African societies that hold conservative views.
Trump’s Appeal Among Conservative African Leaders
Despite his polarizing views, Trump has a strong following among certain African leaders and conservatives.
His tough stance on immigration, focus on national sovereignty, and disdain for international liberal policies resonate with African leaders who favor self-determination over foreign influence.
Trump’s populist approach also aligns with those who see his policies as a defense of traditional values against Western liberalism.
Kamala Harris: A Beacon of Hope for Many Africans
In contrast, many Africans view Kamala Harris as a symbol of progress and inclusivity.
Her stance on immigration, which is less restrictive than Trump’s, offers hope for African families and professionals looking to build lives in the U.S. Harris’s personal background and identity also resonate with Africans, as she embodies the success of a multicultural society and the promise of equality.
Harris’s supporters see her as a link to a more tolerant and progressive future for America, with positive implications for African immigrants.
“Harris’s candidacy is seen as a beacon of opportunity and pride,” Mijungu remarks. “Her policies on immigration and inclusivity give Africans hope for a better life.”
Africa’s Diverse Response
Ultimately, Africa’s response to the U.S. election is far from uniform.
Preferences vary across regions, religions, and socio-economic statuses. While Harris has strong backing from those who view her as a symbol of change, Trump’s conservative stance appeals to African leaders and communities who prefer traditional values.
Both candidates have garnered support from different groups within the continent, highlighting Africa’s rich diversity of perspectives.
Swing States to Watch
As the U.S. election unfolds, certain swing states are expected to play a crucial role in the outcome. Pennsylvania and Michigan, with their high electoral vote counts, are essential battlegrounds for both candidates.
Georgia, a historically Republican stronghold, is now more competitive due to shifting demographics, while Arizona’s changing political landscape presents an opportunity for both Trump and Harris to gain ground.
What’s Next for Africa?
Regardless of who wins, African nations will continue to engage strategically with the new U.S. administration to secure their interests.
Trade deals, immigration policies, and foreign aid remain crucial areas of focus. As Mijungu aptly notes, “The stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for Africa’s relationship with the United States.
Africans seek a leader who will offer them a chance at a better future, whether through trade, immigration, or symbolic representation.”
Africa’s future relationship with the U.S. is, as always, one of nuanced balance. As the continent watches the U.S. election closely, Africans will weigh their options in a contest between traditional values and a progressive future.