By HAN News Desk
WASHINGTON — The United States has unveiled a significant overhaul of its long-standing approach to Africa, signalling a move away from policies centred largely on humanitarian assistance and the promotion of liberal democratic values. According to a newly released section of Washington’s national security strategy, the US now intends to prioritise economic investment, trade partnerships and market-driven cooperation with African nations.
The document notes that for decades, US policy toward Africa focused heavily on aid programmes. However, it argues that the changing geopolitical landscape requires a new model built on mutual economic benefit. Washington says it aims to work with “trusted” African partners who are willing to open their markets, strengthen bilateral trade and cooperate on the continent’s vast natural resources and emerging economic potential.
The strategy outlines plans to support conflict-resolution agreements in regions experiencing prolonged instability, including efforts to help advance peace processes in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, as well as Sudan. It also warns of the risk of new conflicts emerging, particularly along the borders between Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia, while calling for diplomatic engagement to prevent escalation.
The US further proposes a review of its existing aid and investment mechanisms, including the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides trade benefits to eligible African states. At the same time, Washington expresses concern over the rise of Islamist extremist groups in parts of the continent, while emphasising a desire to avoid long-term military entanglements.
A central pillar of the updated strategy is a plan for large-scale investment in Africa’s energy and mineral sectors. This includes backing for nuclear energy projects, as well as expanded development of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Washington says such investments would strengthen US economic interests while helping counter global competition for Africa’s strategic resources.
Implications for Somalia
For Somalia, the shift may carry several consequences. Increased US focus on market-based partnerships could open new opportunities in the country’s developing energy sector, particularly as Somalia accelerates its offshore and onshore oil exploration efforts. However, Washington’s warnings about renewed conflict risks in the Horn of Africa highlight ongoing concerns about regional tensions involving Ethiopia and Eritrea, alongside Somalia’s own security challenges.
The US has not yet detailed how the revised strategy will translate into specific programmes or agreements with Mogadishu, but officials say the approach aims to strengthen cooperation with African states that demonstrate political stability, economic openness and security reliability.
