Every time an American unlocks their phone or tablet, they are relying on resources sourced from African mines (like lithium or tantalum). Control of these materials has become central to the competition among global powers vying for influence in Africa. With the future of the global economy in play, the United States must deepen its partnerships across Africa or risk falling behind.
As a Tanzanian-born American with 40 years of business experience in Africa and the United States, I have seen the continent’s potential firsthand. My work, spanning from farms to boardrooms, has reinforced the importance of fostering stronger U.S.-Africa ties — particularly as China’s influence grows. China’s aggressive expansion into African markets, coupled with its investments in infrastructure and resources, directly challenges U.S. interests.
Fortunately, we have a blueprint for success. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which has facilitated U.S.-Africa trade for over two decades, has opened doors for African exporters. Countries like Kenya and Lesotho have taken advantage of the agreement. Yet, nearly half of eligible nations see AGOA use rates below 2 percent. Untapped opportunities for U.S. engagement abroad remains.
As AGOA approaches its 2025 renewal, the next administration will have a chance to reassess and enhance this program. There will also be an opportunity to build on the success of Power Africa. The program — started during the Obama administration — leveraged billions in private and public funds to bring electricity to millions of Sub-Saharan Africans.
Beyond these programs, though, the United States needs a broader strategy for Africa. China has become Africa’s largest trading partner through billions of dollars in infrastructure investments, but its model often results in debt dependency and resource exploitation.
The United States offers something different: partnerships rooted in fair trade, transparency and shared values. American businesses can lead the way in technology, renewable energy and Blue Economy industries like seaweed farming — an area where Tanzania is already a rising star. By focusing on these sustainable industries, we can foster mutual growth and development while addressing global challenges like climate change and food insecurity.
One way to increase the effect of American investments in Africa is to address more effectively the challenges facing African nations, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited government support, and insufficient trade capacity.
Countries like Botswana and Ethiopia have seen export growth by developing national AGOA strategies. The United Sates should support more African nations in adopting similar approaches through investments in infrastructure and capacity-building.
In Tanzania, where three-quarters of the workforce is involved in agriculture, there’s a dire need to build manufacturing and processing capacity. The United States can help Tanzania meet this challenge by deploying American machinery, technology and expertise in a manner that is mutually beneficial and doesn’t cede ground to competitors. This model was successful in Ethiopia, where leather production increased significantly after key investments and support programs were implemented.
Strengthening U.S.-Africa trade and investment isn’t just an economic necessity — it’s a strategic imperative. China’s growing influence in Africa challenges U.S. interests, and if we fail to act, we risk losing out on one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.
Experience shows that U.S. engagement with developing economies helps support their governments in strengthening democratic institutions and improving the well-being and upholding the dignity of their citizens.
Now is the time for policymakers and business leaders to come together and forge a comprehensive strategy that deepens U.S.-Africa trade, enhances AGOA and other vital programs, and preserves American competitiveness in the continent.
Africa’s future is bright. Let’s ensure the United States plays a leading role in that future — by building partnerships that promote prosperity, sustainability and shared values.