The Trump administration is reshaping US aid to Africa, replacing traditional development programmes with targeted deals to counter Chinese influence. New bilateral agreements tie funding to commitments such as access to critical minerals and health data, or alignment with US strategic priorities.
Nick Checker, head of the State Department’s Africa bureau, said the US will not compete “dollar for dollar” with China on infrastructure, but will focus on priority sectors like mineral rights, supply chains and security. The shift follows the dismantling of USAID, which officials deemed too diffuse.
Agreements with Kenya and Nigeria emphasise faith-based healthcare providers, raising concerns from campaigners about political priorities overriding public health needs. The Kenya deal grants Washington access to health data, while critics warn faith-based groups may not offer specialist services for LGBT+ communities.
So far, 14 sub-Saharan African countries have signed agreements, though most remain unpublished, prompting transparency concerns. The move comes as Chinese lending to Africa fell to $2.1 billion in 2024, with Beijing shifting to smaller, commercially viable projects.
Senior State Department official Jeremy Lewin said the US is using “targeted, high-impact” assistance to build partnerships with “pro-American states.” This week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosts a critical minerals meeting with African officials, including DRC President Felix Tshisekedi.
