As Africa’s leaders convene in Addis Ababa for their annual summit, the continent stands at a crossroads, grappling with its role in a rapidly changing global order. Recent discussions around international relations have underscored a stark reality: nations either secure their place at the negotiating table or risk being sidelined entirely. This pressing issue resonates deeply with African heads of state, who have long advocated for greater inclusion in global decision-making processes.
The Current Global Climate
The backdrop to this year’s gathering is marked by a discernible shift in global power dynamics, particularly under the administration of US President Donald Trump. His approach has been characterised by a pronounced tilt towards prioritising bilateral agreements, often at the expense of multilateral engagement—a trend that has left many nations feeling increasingly marginalised. The updated US security strategy indicates a preference for focusing on select regions, particularly the Western hemisphere and the Middle East, leaving Africa with diminished attention and support.
In light of these developments, African nations find themselves reassessing their international partnerships and strategies. Tighisti Amare, director of the Africa programme at Chatham House, warns of the risks of isolation if African countries fail to formulate a cohesive and effective approach to engage with global powers. The urgency of this situation is amplified by the lure of lucrative bilateral deals that often favour resource-rich nations, sidelining any potential for collective bargaining across the continent.
A New Era of US-Africa Relations
The rhetoric surrounding US engagement with Africa has been notably inconsistent in recent years. In late 2024, then-President Joe Biden delivered a message of optimism at a summit in Washington, professing the United States’ commitment to Africa’s future. However, critics argue that the administration’s actions speak louder than words. Biden’s solitary visit to sub-Saharan Africa during his presidency—a brief trip to Cape Verde and Angola—has led many to question the sincerity of his administration’s intentions towards the continent.
In stark contrast to Biden’s optimistic proclamations, Trump’s “America First” policy has shifted the focus of US interests. A recent National Security Strategy document stated that the US cannot afford to engage equally with every region, indicating a more transactional approach that prioritises immediate gains. This shift has led to a flurry of bilateral agreements, particularly in the minerals sector, which some experts believe may undermine broader economic cooperation that Africa desperately needs.
The Mineral Resource Dilemma
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rich in essential minerals for electronic manufacturing, exemplifies this new US strategy. In December, the US secured a deal with the DRC, aiming to establish reliable supply chains for critical minerals. However, concerns have been raised regarding the implications of such agreements. Ken Opalo, an Africa specialist from Georgetown University, argues that this focus on a transactional model weakens African nations’ bargaining power, potentially resulting in less favourable deals that do not address the continent’s comprehensive economic needs.
DRC’s Mines Minister, Louis Watum Kabamba, has pushed back against these assertions, emphasising that the country will not compromise its interests for minimal returns. Yet, the challenge remains: how can African nations leverage their resources in a way that fosters genuine economic development rather than mere extraction for foreign benefit?
A Call for Unity and Strategic Action
As the summit unfolds, leaders such as Ghana’s President John Mahama are vocalising a need for a paradigm shift in African self-reliance. Mahama’s call to action highlights the pressing need for the continent to reclaim its agency and invest in its own development, particularly in sectors such as education and health, which have historically relied on external aid. His “Accra Reset” initiative seeks to foster regional industrialisation and coordinated negotiations, aiming to empower Africa in the global arena.
However, this vision raises questions about the continent’s preparedness for such a transformative journey. Analysts like Amare caution that to establish a united front, African leaders must often set aside national interests in favour of collective regional goals. At the same time, the existing frameworks—such as the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Union’s Agenda 2063—provide a foundation for greater cooperation, though progress has been slow.
Why it Matters
The discussions in Addis Ababa are not merely an annual formality; they signal a crucial moment for Africa as it seeks to assert its position in a world increasingly dominated by powerful nations. The continent’s leaders face the formidable task of navigating a complex geopolitical landscape while striving for unity and strategic coherence. As they deliberate on their collective future, the stakes have never been higher. Africa’s ability to negotiate its place in this new order will determine not only the continent’s economic trajectory but also its sovereignty and agency on the global stage. The time for Africa to reclaim its narrative and redefine its role in international affairs is now.
