• Since 1960, more than $2.6 trillion has been pumped into Africa in the form of aid.
• From 1970 and 1998, when aid was at its peak, poverty actually rose alarmingly—from 11% to 66%—due in large part to this massive influx of foreign aid that counteracted its intended good.
• Aid decreased long-term economic growth by fuelling systemic corruption, in which powerful aid recipients funnelled foreign funds into a personal stash instead of public investment.

After President Trump announced a 90-day overseas spending freeze, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said “every dollar” must be “justified” by evidence that it makes the US safer, stronger and more prosperous. I acknowledge that stance may sound ungrateful. At first blush, many might counter that starving people have no agenda. Destitute parents still need to feed their children. Turning a blind eye to their plight is inhumane.

Let me explain why the African Energy Chamber (AEC) …

• The world has lost one of the most significant figures in global philanthropy and development.
• At the age of 88, His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV, died quietly in Lisbon, Portugal, with his family by his side.
• His vision and leadership, as the founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, have changed the lives of innumerable people in Africa and beyond.

The Aga Khan IV: An Advocate for the Advancement of the world

His Highness the Aga Khan IV is one of the few world leaders who has had such a lasting influence on Africa. From Kenya to Mozambique, Uganda to Tanzania, his decades-long dedication to social and economic development has had an impact on the continent. He led programs that raised millions of people, irrespective of their background, colour, or religion, and created enduring …

• Existing programs like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) are under review, with a shift toward enforcing stricter reciprocity.
• USAID, traditionally a key player in U.S. humanitarian and development efforts, is being dismantled and merged into the State Department.
• Stricter visa policies and a reduction in refugee resettlement quotas directly impact African nations.

With the new Trump administration taking shape, its foreign policy direction for Africa is becoming increasingly evident. Guided by the “America First” principle, this strategy prioritizes American interests through pragmatic diplomacy, targeted partnerships, and a focus on security and economic priorities.

Below is a detailed exploration of the policy directions and their implications for U.S.-Africa relations, updated to reflect the latest developments.

Pragmatic Diplomacy and Economic Engagement

The “America First” strategy emphasizes partnerships that yield mutual benefits for American investments and strategic interests. African nations with significant economic or geopolitical advantages are likely to attract …

• Through partnerships, innovative incentives, and public-focused investments, the Sahel can close the energy gap and bridge the rural-urban divide.
• Based on the region’s potential, UNDP is implementing the UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS), aiming to provide clean, affordable energy to over 150 million people by 2025.
• The Sahel has one of the highest potential for solar energy production globally, at 13.9 billion kWh/year compared to the global consumption of 20 billion kWh/year.

Imagine a Sahel region where every household, school, and hospital has access to clean, affordable energy—where renewable power not only serves homes but also drives economic transformation. Given the region’s rich solar, wind, and hydro resources, this vision is achievable.

With one of the highest potential for solar energy production globally, at 13.9 billion kWh/year compared to the global consumption of 20 billion kWh/year, the Sahel’s renewable energy capacity remains underutilised. Currently, over 55 …

• In developing countries, fintechs are particularly responsible for social impact as there are often wider gaps to fill.
• Fintechs have the power to do good, but for a company to label itself ‘for good,’ this must be a key business priority.
• However, when it comes to dealing with investors and board members, fintech leaders must balance their social impact ambitions with profitability, useability and affordability.

Positive social impact is often only associated with governments or NGOs, organisations which are doing good without the motivation of profit or brand. However, fintechs are oftentimes uniquely positioned to solve social issues through providing access to services, improved user experience and education.

Using various fintech products, consumers can gain a better understanding of their financial situation. Products like savings pots, investment platforms and as well access to loans can all lead to financial freedom for those without it.

In developing countries, fintechs are particularly …

• North Africa already has the requisite abundant natural resources and developing infrastructure to support a massive expansion in green hydrogen production.
• The region boasts some of the highest solar irradiation levels globally, making it an ideal location for solar-powered hydrogen production.
• Countries like Morocco and Egypt have already initiated projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Thermal Complex and the Benban Solar Complex, respectively, which could serve as the backbone for the industry.

While much of our attention at the African Energy Chamber (AEC) concentrates on efforts to industrialize the sub-Saharan regions, as covered in our recently released 2025 Outlook Report, The State of African Energy, the more developed North African nations have seen recent progress in the renewables field, in green hydrogen specifically, that deserves our recognition.

Many are likely unfamiliar with the technology behind the production of this fuel source, and the subject requires at least a brief explanation.…