African leaders are meeting in Addis Ababa this weekend for their annual summit at a time when global politics is shifting fast. Many are asking a serious question: will Africa shape the future, or will others shape it for them?
Earlier this year in Davos, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney used a powerful image. He said countries must choose whether they sit at the table or end up on the menu. For African leaders, this idea is not new. For years, they have pushed for a stronger voice in global decisions.
Now, the global balance of power is changing again. The United States is moving toward a more selective foreign policy. That shift affects Africa directly.
US Policy Shift and Reduced Focus on Africa
During his presidency, Joe Biden told African leaders that the United States was fully committed to Africa’s future. His administration described sub Saharan Africa as critical to global priorities.
However, critics questioned how deep that commitment went. Biden made only one brief visit to sub Saharan Africa during his term, and that happened near the end of his presidency.
In contrast, President Donald Trump’s second term shows a sharper America First focus. His updated National Security Strategy makes it clear that the US cannot give equal attention to every region. Instead, it plans to work closely with selected countries, especially where trade and security interests align.
This approach reduces emphasis on multilateral cooperation. Global institutions like the UN, World Bank, and World Trade Organization may no longer play the same role in shaping partnerships.
Bilateral Deals and Africa’s Strategic Challenge
The US now pursues more direct bilateral deals, especially in sectors like minerals and natural resources. These agreements often happen country by country. As a result, Africa loses chances to negotiate collectively.
Tighisti Amare from Chatham House warns that African nations could fall behind if they fail to develop a unified strategy. Without coordination, individual states may secure short term gains but lose long term leverage.
Peter Pham, who served as a special envoy to Africa during Trump’s first administration, supports this realistic approach. He argues that no superpower can prioritize every region equally. Governments must focus on areas that serve their national interests.
A Critical Moment for African Leadership
African leaders now face a turning point. The continent holds vast natural resources and a young, growing population. These strengths give Africa bargaining power. But that power depends on unity and clear strategy.
If African countries coordinate their policies, they can negotiate from a position of strength. If they act alone, stronger nations may dictate the terms.
The summit in Addis Ababa is more than a routine meeting. It is an opportunity to decide whether Africa will lead its own path in the new world order.
