Donald Trump didn’t need Africa. That much was clear. His “America First” agenda slashed USAID funding, imposed trade barriers, and rolled back climate commitments.
USAID, once a vital lifeline for millions, was suddenly in question. The message was unmistakable: America would look inward, regardless of the consequences for the rest of the world.
“For decades, many African leaders have clung to power instead of building economies strong enough to survive without foreign assistance.”
For Africa, this should have been a wake-up call. But was anyone listening?
For decades, USAID had propped up essential services—food, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. It accounted for less than 1 percent of America’s budget, yet over 30 percent of it went to Africa, funding programs that kept people alive.
“Corruption drains an estimated $150 billion annually from Sub-Saharan Africa—money that could have built schools, hospitals, and industries.”
Then came the cuts. Under Trump, assistance dwindled, threatening HIV/AIDS treatment, disaster relief, and agricultural support. Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam America, put it bluntly: “Saving USAID saves lives.” But Trump wasn’t saving it—he was gutting it. In a recent interview with CNN, she reiterated the devastating impact of these reductions.
Yet, the real crisis isn’t that America turned away. It’s that Africa was left exposed. Because here’s the uncomfortable truth: in the 21st century, Africa still cannot stand on its own.
Why is Africa still dependent on foreign aid?
The reliance on handouts isn’t just about global politics—it’s about choices made at home. For decades, many African leaders have clung to power instead of building economies strong enough to survive without foreign assistance.
Industrialisation has stalled in most African nations, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Infrastructure remains weak. Natural resources are plundered rather than harnessed for long-term prosperity.
Take Nigeria, the so-called “Giant of Africa.” It boasts vast oil reserves, yet its economy remains perilously dependent on crude exports. Instead of diversifying, successive governments have allowed fiscal autonomy to erode. The result? A country rich in resources but poor in opportunity.
It’s not just Nigeria. Across the continent, governments have failed to convert Africa’s wealth into sustainable economic power. The consequences are dire—resource curse syndrome, weak institutions, and persistent underdevelopment.
A bleak future: Soaring populations, stagnant economies
Africa’s population has doubled to 1.5 billion in just 30 years. Yet, while society has changed, economic transformation has lagged behind, leaving millions trapped in poverty. Education, healthcare, and infrastructure remain inadequate, widening inequality across the continent.
If this trend continues, the United Nations warns that by 2030, 80 percent of the world’s poorest people will live in Africa—a staggering jump from just 18 percent in 1991. By 2070, the population is expected to double again. Are Africa’s leaders prepared for what’s coming? Or will they continue to look outward for answers while the crisis deepens?
For years, some have blamed Western policies and global economic conditions for Africa’s struggles, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. It’s a familiar argument, but how long can the past be blamed for the present?
Africa’s biggest threat: Its own leadership
Weak governance and economic mismanagement have turned Africa’s potential into a missed opportunity. Corruption drains an estimated $150 billion annually from Sub-Saharan Africa—money that could have built schools, hospitals, and industries. Instead, it lines the pockets of politicians, according to the IMF.
Ghana, once hailed as a model of democracy, is now suffocating under debt. Its energy sector alone owes over $3 billion, while economic growth lags behind a rapidly expanding population. Without urgent reforms—transparency, tax system overhauls, and public sector restructuring—Ghana risks sinking deeper into crisis.
Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms offer some hope, but for millions, the pain is real. Food prices are soaring, inflation is at 34.8 percent, incomes are shrinking, and there’s little relief in sight. However, if managed well, today’s hardship could lay the foundation for future prosperity.
Breaking free: The road to industrialisation
To end its dependency, Africa must do more than just survive—it must industrialise. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a rare opportunity: a single market for 1.3 billion people.
If executed correctly, it could turn Africa into a global economic force. However, without the right policies, it will remain just another unrealised dream. Ethiopia has already leveraged manufacturing to boost job creation, while Rwanda is emerging as a tech hub. These models can be replicated across the continent with the right leadership.
Africa must stand on its own
Africa’s leaders have a choice: continue waiting for foreign handouts or take control of their destiny. The resources exist. Human capital exists. But without bold, decisive leadership, Africa will remain exactly where it is—watching as the world moves forward while it stays behind.
The world isn’t waiting for Africa. Will Africa finally stop waiting for the world?
Oluwatobi Ojabello, senior economic analyst at BusinessDay, holds a BSc and an MSc in Economics as well as a PhD (in view) in Economics (Covenant, Ota).
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