The “America First” policy

The America First policy, a cornerstone of Donald Trump’s presidency, aimed to prioritise American interests, security, and prosperity above all else. Rooted in populist and nationalist ideologies, it sought to redefine America’s role in the world.

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At its core, America First emphasised the need to protect American jobs, industries, and borders. The Trump administration implemented various measures to achieve this goal, including:

Trade protectionism: Imposing tariffs on imported goods to shield American industries and promote domestic production.

Immigration reform: Restricting immigration, particularly from certain countries, to protect American jobs and national security.

Border security: Strengthening border controls, including the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border.

In terms of foreign policy, America First marked a significant shift away from traditional US leadership in global affairs. Key actions included:

Withdrawal from international agreements: The US exited several agreements, including the Paris Climate Accord and the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Prioritisation of bilateral relations: The administration focused on building relationships with individual countries rather than participating in multilateral forums.

Emphasis on national sovereignty: The US asserted its independence, often at the expense of international cooperation and institutions.

Critics argued that America First led to increased isolationism, undermined global stability, and damaged relationships with long-standing allies. Supporters, however, viewed it as a necessary correction to years of US overextension and a reassertion of American interests.

Impact on African migration

African migrants were significantly affected by Trump’s immigration policies. The administration’s travel ban targeted several African countries, including Somalia, Sudan, and Libya, and was widely criticised for being discriminatory and ineffective.

The visa bond pilot programme, which required applicants from certain African countries to pay a bond of up to $15,000, further restricted access. Though designed to reduce visa overstays, it effectively barred many Africans from visiting the US.

Economic implications

Trump’s immigration policies had substantial economic consequences for Africa. The reduction in refugee admissions and the travel ban affected not only migrants but also broader economies. Many African countries rely heavily on remittances from diaspora communities, and these policies reduced the flow of funds.

Furthermore, the America First policy led to a decline in US investment in Africa. The administration’s focus on domestic economic growth and job creation resulted in a reduction in foreign aid and investment, negatively impacting African economies. The economic impact of Trump’s deportation policies could be felt in several ways:

Remittances: African immigrants in the US send billions of dollars home each year. Deportations could lead to a decline in these funds, a critical source of income for many families.

Foreign investment: A reduction in US investment could create uncertainty in African economies, discouraging business expansion and foreign partnerships.

Trade: African countries could experience a decline in exports to the US as American businesses become more hesitant to engage in trade.

Human capital: Deportations could result in a loss of skilled and educated individuals, affecting sectors reliant on specialised expertise.

Brain drain: Africa already faces a brain drain problem, and deportations could exacerbate the loss of highly skilled professionals.

Loss of tax revenue: Deportees would no longer contribute to tax bases, potentially straining public resources in their home countries.

Disruption of supply chains: Industries that depend on immigrant labour, such as agriculture and construction, could experience labour shortages.

Some African countries likely to feel the economic impact of Trump’s deportation policies include:

Nigeria: One of the largest recipients of remittances from the US, Nigerians in the US sent over $6 billion home in 2020. Deportations could lead to a significant decline in these remittances. Africa Leadership Magazine reported that over 3,000 Nigerians in the US faced deportation under Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigrants.

Ethiopia: A fast-growing economy with a growing diaspora community in the US, Ethiopia could see a disruption in remittance flows and investment, slowing economic growth.

South Africa: With a substantial diaspora community in the US, South Africa risks losing skilled professionals in finance, technology, and healthcare, affecting economic growth and competitiveness.

Social implications

Trump’s immigration policies also had significant social consequences for Africa. The travel ban and visa restrictions led to a decline in cultural exchange programmes and educational opportunities for African students. This not only affected the students but also had a broader impact on African societies, which rely on education and cultural exchange for development.

Moreover, Trump’s policies contributed to an increase in xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment in the US, negatively impacting African diaspora communities, who faced rising discrimination and harassment.

Donald Trump’s immigration policies had far-reaching implications for Africa. The America First policy, travel ban, visa restrictions, and reduction in refugee admissions negatively impacted African migrants, economies, and societies.

As the US continues to grapple with immigration policy, it is essential to consider the broader global implications. A more inclusive and equitable approach to immigration is necessary to foster economic growth, cultural exchange, and social justice.

Global policy experts strongly advise the US government to reconsider its immigration approach, prioritising inclusivity and equity. They advocate for an immediate suspension of the travel ban and visa restrictions while calling for an increase in refugee admissions.

By adopting a more inclusive immigration policy, the US can not only promote economic growth and cultural exchange but also strengthen its role in fostering global stability and cooperation.

The post How Trump’s immigration policy will impact Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Data from Johns Hopkins University’s Centre for Gun Violence Solutions illustrates that among every other factor, gun violence remains the leading cause of death for Black youth, with Black Americans facing disproportionate firearm-related fatalities and injuries compared to other demographics.

Voting Rights

Historically, the Black community has faced significant barriers in exercising their right to vote. Although protections like the Voting Rights Act of 1965 sought to dismantle discriminatory practices, recent legislative changes in multiple states have introduced stricter voter ID laws, limited mail-in voting options, and reduced voting locations in urban areas. Black communities, particularly in states like Georgia and Texas, have reported more challenges in access to voting, leading to lower turnout in these areas. Voting rights advocacy groups, such as the NAACP and Black Voters Matter, have repeatedly called for legislation that safeguards these rights, an issue both parties are divided over.

Kamala Harris has publicly supported policies to protect voting access, backing the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which would reinstate crucial protections from the Voting Rights Act. Her stance aligns with the Democratic agenda to prevent restrictions on voter registration. Donald Trump’s camp, however, advocates for more stringent voter identification laws. For Black voters, this raises questions of accessibility and whether new regulations might hinder turnout among historically disenfranchised communities.

Gun Violence

Gun violence has deeply affected Black communities across the U.S., where Black Americans experience gun-related fatalities at disproportionately high rates. Research shows that Black individuals are 10 times more likely to die from gun-related incidents than their white counterparts. ​

Gun violence has become the leading cause of death for children and adolescents aged 1–19 in the U.S., and black children bear an outsized burden. For instance, while only 14% of the child population, black children account for 42% of youth gun deaths. Mass shootings have also risen, with 2024 witnessing over 260 mass shootings by July, resulting in 274 deaths and more than 1,131 injuries.

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Policy differences between Trump and Harris here are stark. Harris advocates for stronger gun control measures, including universal background checks, assault weapon bans, and red flag laws, viewing them as preventive strategies to reduce gun violence in Black communities. Trump, in contrast, supports the Second Amendment and opposes stringent gun control, instead promoting increased policing and security measures. Black voters must consider which approach aligns more closely with their community’s safety needs.

Police Brutality

Police brutality remains a deeply concerning issue for Black Americans, who are statistically over three times more likely to be killed by law enforcement than white Americans. High-profile cases, such as those of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, have highlighted systemic issues within law enforcement and prompted widespread calls for reform. Many Black Americans have spoken of  trauma from encounters with law enforcement and their fear of racial profiling and violence.

As vice president, Harris supported the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which proposes federal standards for policing practices, including banning chokeholds and ending qualified immunity for officers. Trump’s track record on this issue is less focused on police reform, prioritising “law and order” and advocating for expanded police budgets rather than stricter oversight. Black voters face a decision on which candidate is more likely to champion substantive changes to address police violence in their communities.

Campaign Promises and Implications

Education, Economic Equity, and Healthcare

Economic stability, educational access, and healthcare are also high priorities for Black communities. Harris has advocated for advancing racial equity, continuing the Biden administration’s policies, which include support for Black-owned businesses, accessible education, and healthcare. She has promoted increased federal funding for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and tuition-free community colleges to help close educational disparities. In healthcare, Harris supports expanding the Affordable Care Act, which has improved healthcare access for Black Americans.

Trump, on the other hand, promotes economic growth through deregulation and tax cuts, which he argues will benefit Black entrepreneurs by creating a robust business environment. His education policies emphasize school choice, advocating for charter schools as alternatives to public schooling. In healthcare, he favours a less regulated market, asserting that competition will drive down costs.

Which Candidate Aligns with Black Interests?

Ultimately, Black voters must weigh whether Harris’s focus on equity, justice, and community-focused reforms aligns with their needs or if Trump’s emphasis on economic freedom and deregulation is more appealing. Black voters’ priorities—from voting rights and police reform to gun violence reduction and healthcare access—make this election a crucial opportunity for their votes to shape their destiny.

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Podcasting is rapidly reshaping how candidates share their visions, outline policies, and respond to public concerns. Could it become a new frontier for political engagement, ushering in an era of media-centered politicking as the landscape evolves at a swift pace?

With over 546 million podcast listeners globally as of 2024, podcasting is more popular than ever. In the United States, nearly 47% of the population aged 12 and older listens to a podcast at least once a month, with consumption reaching 53% among adults 18 and older. This year, global podcast ad spending is projected to reach $4.02 billion, with video podcasts seeing a notable rise, as 33% of US podcast listeners now prefer visual content. Platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts dominate the podcasting landscape.

The Rise of Podcasting in American Politics

Podcasting’s emergence in American politics marks a significant shift from its humble beginnings in the early 2000s, when software developer Dave Winer created the first audio RSS feed in 2003. Evolving from “audioblogs” rooted in the 1980s, podcasting gained traction through the spread of broadband internet and digital audio devices.

Today, podcasters are prominent figures in media, with citizen journalism giving rise to influential personalities such as Joe Rogan, Logan Paul, Patrick Bet-David, Alex Cooper, Jess Hilarious, Shannon Sharpe, and Charlamagne Tha God. These podcasters have not only shaped new media but also provided a platform for politicians to reach vast and engaged audiences.

Candidates Embrace Podcasting to Connect with Voters

The main presidential candidates, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, have each made appearances on popular podcasts, signifying a shift in how Americans access information to inform their voting decisions. Trump has appeared on podcasts like Six Feet Under, Flagrant, Bussin’ with the Boys, This Past Weekend, and The Joe Rogan Experience, while Harris has joined shows such as Call Her Daddy, All the Smoke, The Howard Stern Show, and The Breakfast Club.

Podcasts are increasingly seen as a battleground for political influence, particularly in key swing states. Their popularity stems from accessibility, rising listener numbers, and the personal, conversational format that fosters deeper connections between candidates and voters. According to Lea Redfern of the University of Sydney, “High-stakes interviews are no longer solely the domain of legacy media. Politicians, like celebrities, can reach vast and potentially new audiences through sympathetic podcast hosts.”

Targeted Appeal to Diverse Audiences

Both candidates are strategically using podcasts to appeal to their respective audiences. For example, Vice President Kamala Harris recently appeared on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, a platform with a strong following among women, where they discussed reproductive rights and women’s issues. In contrast, Donald Trump’s recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, a show popular among a different demographic, focused on his candidacy, recent threats against him, and his economic plans.

As the election draws near, podcasts have become essential tools for reaching swing voters across the political spectrum. The candidates recognize that winning this tight race will require maximizing their reach and engaging directly with listeners through every available platform, including podcasts.

The Impact of Podcasting on the 2024 Election

In this election, both candidates are relying on podcast appearances to showcase their charisma and engage voters in a medium known for its authentic and often unfiltered format. With six or seven swing states likely to determine the election outcome, podcasts may indeed play a decisive role in influencing voter perception and trust.

As the political landscape shifts, podcasting may prove essential in bridging the gap between candidates and the American public, solidifying its place in the future of political campaigning. By leveraging the reach and intimacy of podcasts, candidates are redefining how they communicate with the electorate and securing a critical space in the media landscape that continues to shape public opinion.

The post US 2024 Elections: Podcasting the New Frontier appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The election has garnered significant international attention, particularly in Africa, where observers closely watch how the outcome could shape policies affecting Black communities globally.

America First versus Global Cooperation

In what would be his second term, Trump champions a distinctly “America First” policy, focusing on reshoring manufacturing, reducing trade reliance on China, and increasing domestic energy production. This approach, while resonant with many Americans focused on domestic issues, has raised concerns among international allies about the implications for global cooperation and stability. Trump’s stance has led him to distance the U.S. from international organisations like the WHO, and he has voiced scepticism about NATO and multilateral agreements like the Paris climate accord. ​

In contrast, Harris, continuing the Biden administration’s diplomatic approach, advocates for increased U.S. engagement with global allies, environmental responsibility, and cooperative health strategies. Her support for the Paris Agreement and multinational pandemic preparedness initiatives signals a return to a globally engaged America. Experts suggest that, for Africa, Harris’s presidency could mean continued and even expanded partnerships, especially in renewable energy sectors, climate adaptation, and health security. “Harris has the potential to reinvigorate the U.S.-Africa partnership through targeted investments that support African-led initiatives, particularly in sustainability,” notes policy analyst Dr. Mumbi Macharia from the Africa Policy Institute. ​

What Black Communities Should Expect

Domestically, the treatment of Black Americans under the Trump administration faced significant criticism, particularly concerning issues of policing, voting rights, and economic inequality. During his previous term, Trump’s response to the Black Lives Matter protests and his rhetoric around issues affecting Black communities were points of contention, leading to a rise in social justice activism. Harris, who identifies as Black and South Asian, has focused heavily on issues of racial justice, supporting reforms in policing and advocating for policies that benefit historically marginalised groups.

Internationally, Harris’s election could signify a strengthened diplomatic stance against racial inequality worldwide, positioning her administration as a potential ally for Black communities in Africa. Experts contend that Harris’s background and policy priorities align more closely with promoting human rights across borders.

Although Trump’s rally has prioritised Black communities, while rooted in a narrative of economic empowerment, it may resonate less with African communities focused on racial justice. Critics argue that his reluctance to address racial disparities could signal weaker support for initiatives that target racial equality and civil rights, both domestically and abroad.

Climate and Energy Action: The African Perspective

Climate change remains one of Africa’s greatest challenges, with disproportionate impacts on food security, water availability, and natural disasters. The Harris campaign frames climate change as an “existential threat,” with Harris often citing her record as a climate advocate. Harris’s support for the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest climate investment in U.S. history, underscores her commitment to combating global warming through green energy and emissions reduction. If elected, her policies would likely strengthen U.S.-Africa collaborations on climate resilience, an area where African countries are already taking bold steps with projects like the Great Green Wall in the Sahel region. ​

Trump’s approach to climate, however, significantly differs. Known for his scepticism toward climate science, Trump has vowed to increase fossil fuel production and reduce green energy regulations. While Trump argues this approach will bolster American energy independence, African environmental experts fear it would lessen the U.S.’s role in supporting climate adaptations in vulnerable regions like Sub-Saharan Africa.

Economic Diplomacy and Trade: What’s at Stake for African Economies?

The economic policies of Harris and Trump each present distinct outcomes for African economies. Under Biden and Harris, the U.S. has focused on trade partnerships to foster mutually beneficial growth. Initiatives such as Prosper Africa and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) aim to expand trade and investment between the U.S. and African nations, creating economic opportunities on both sides. Harris’s approach would likely see the continuation of these programs, offering African economies steady access to American markets and potential growth in sectors like technology and manufacturing. ​

Trump’s trade strategy involves renegotiating trade deals to benefit American industries, often to the detriment of partner economies. His approach to Africa could mean higher tariffs and a reduction in trade incentives, potentially straining AGOA and limiting market access for African businesses.​

Global Health Security: A Test of Pandemic Preparedness

COVID-19 demonstrated the need for coordinated global health responses. Under Biden and Harris, the U.S. has reengaged with the WHO and supported international vaccine distributions. Harris’s emphasis on global health security would likely mean continued support for health partnerships in Africa, providing funding for pandemic preparedness, disease prevention, and healthcare infrastructure improvements.

Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO during his previous term, however, left a gap in global health leadership. If re-elected, he may continue prioritising a nationalistic approach, which, experts warn, could hamper collective efforts to tackle future pandemics. “A Trump administration could shift focus away from international health alliances, potentially affecting African health systems that rely on U.S. aid for combating diseases,” says Dr. Samantha Roberts, a global health expert. ​

The Bigger Picture: A Crossroads for U.S.-Africa Relations

The 2024 election represents more than a choice between two candidates; it reflects America’s direction as a global leader and its potential influence in Africa. While Trump’s policies appeal to Americans focused on domestic issues, they raise concerns in Africa over reduced support for trade, climate action, and health security. Harris, meanwhile, embodies a collaborative approach, likely strengthening multilateral alliances and offering Africa continued partnerships on issues like climate resilience and trade.

In the closing weeks of the heated campaign, Harris and Trump present voters and the world with a choice between differing visions for America and its role on the global stage. For Africa, the stakes could not be higher, as the continent prepares to navigate either strengthened cooperation under Harris or a recalibrated “America First” landscape under Trump.

The post Trump vs. Harris—Africa Observes appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

President Joe Biden’s administration regulated big tech companies, with implications for global digital markets and privacy standards. These regulatory changes affect how technology companies operate worldwide and set precedents for international tech policies. One of Biden’s first actions after his election in 2020 was to rejoin the Paris Agreement, signaling the U.S. commitment to addressing climate change.

President Donald Trump’s election in 2016 led to significant shifts in global trade dynamics. According to the IMF’s World Economic Outlook in 2020, Trump’s administration’s imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods led to a trade war that saw the U.S. place tariffs of up to 25% on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports. In response, China retaliated with tariffs on U.S. products, disrupting global supply chains and leading to a 0.6% reduction in global GDP growth.

This trade war affected global markets and supply chains, influencing economic policies worldwide. Trump also renegotiated the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), resulting in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA’s impact on North American trade was evident, with U.S.-Canada trade increasing by 9% in 2021 compared to 2020, and U.S.-Mexico trade rising by 6% over the same period, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

President Barack Obama’s election in 2008 led to changes in U.S. foreign policy, including efforts to improve relations with Middle Eastern countries. The Iran Nuclear Deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) in 2015 was a significant outcome, which aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Iran agreed to reduce its stockpile of low-enriched uranium by 98%, from about 10,000 kg to 300 kg. It also agreed to limit uranium enrichment to 3.67% for 15 years, well below the 90% needed for weapons-grade material. Obama also restored diplomatic relations with Cuba, easing travel restrictions and opening up economic opportunities between the two countries.

Possible Implications of 2024 U.S Elections

Vice President Kamala Harris has launched her 2024 presidential campaign with the backing of President Joe Biden. This decision follows Biden’s withdrawal from the race, driven by concerns over his age and health, marking a significant moment in U.S. political history. As Harris embarks on her journey to secure the White House, the implications of her campaign resonate across the political spectrum, promising to redefine the future of the Democratic Party and the nation.

President Joe Biden’s decision to step aside from the 2024 presidential race was not made lightly. Sources close to the administration reveal that Biden agonized over poll data and mounting concerns about his capacity to endure the rigors of another campaign. His statement, issued at the Democratic National Convention, emphasized the importance of unity and the need for a new generation of leadership. Biden’s withdrawal has sparked a range of reactions, from disappointment among loyal supporters to a sense of relief among those worried about his age.

Vice President Kamala Harris wasted no time capitalizing on the momentum. Her campaign launch was marked by a series of high-profile events, including a rally in Fayetteville and a visit to a clinic that performs abortions in St. Paul, underscoring her commitment to women’s rights. Harris’s campaign quickly gained traction, raising nearly $50 million within weeks of Biden’s endorsement, showcasing her ability to mobilize Democratic support and secure critical funding.

Harris’s strategy involves consolidating support within the Democratic Party. She has already secured endorsements from all state Democratic party chairs and key figures within the party. However, notable silence from influential Democrats like Nancy Pelosi suggests ongoing negotiations and the need to address various factions within the party. Harris’s ability to unify these groups will be crucial for her campaign’s success.

Former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, hasn’t responded to Harris’s candidacy. Trump supporters are expressing confidence and readiness to run against Vice President Kamala Harris following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he is dropping out of the 2024 race. Publicly stating that Harris would be easier to defeat than Biden, shifting his campaign strategy to confront the new Democratic frontrunner.

READ ALSO: Political Gender Representation in Zambia: Successes and Challenges

If elected, Harris would be the first female president and the first woman of color to hold the highest office in the U.S., symbolizing a monumental step toward diversity and representation in American politics.

Harris’s presidency could bring significant shifts in domestic policies, particularly in areas like healthcare, women’s rights, criminal justice reform, and climate change. Her progressive stance on various issues is likely to shape legislative priorities and executive actions.

Trump’s victory would likely result in the continuation and expansion of conservative policies, including deregulation, tax cuts, and a focus on traditional values. His administration would prioritize conservative judicial appointments and rollback of progressive initiatives. Supporters argue that his policies are better suited for economic recovery and growth compared to Harris’s more progressive agenda.

Harris’s campaign and potential presidency might catalyze a realignment within the Democratic Party, strengthening progressive factions and potentially redefining the party’s platform and electoral strategies for future elections

The post U.S. Presidential Elections Shape Global Economic and Political Landscapes appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

During the event, one bystander tragically lost their life, and two others wounded before Secret Service agents swiftly neutralized the assailant. The FBI’s investigation revealed that the gunman, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, acted alone without any apparent ideological motivation.

Kevin Rojek, the FBI special agent in charge of the case, stated during a phone briefing that “at this time, the information that we have indicates that the shooter acted alone and that there are currently no public safety concerns.” “We haven’t found any ideology connected to the topic as of yet, but let everyone know that this investigation is still very early on.”

This incident would make it the first time in over 40 years that an attempt has been made on a president, sitting or former in American history. The international community and Americans are in shock and have called for more restrained political discourse. It also raised important concerns about whether security failings allowed the gunman to sneak onto the roof.

President Biden asked the public to give the FBI time to conduct a thorough investigation before drawing any judgments, and he promised at the White House that all necessary steps would be taken to find out the truth about the incident.

Biden delivered a televised address from the Oval Office in the White House on Sunday. “There is no place in America for this kind of violence, for any violence ever. Period. No exceptions. We can’t allow this violence to be normalized,” he said. “The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. It’s time to cool it down.”

Security experts, including Karl de la Guerra, CEO of KGI Protective Services, highlighted the predictable nature of threats against high-profile figures like Trump. “Unfortunately there were a lot of indicators, a lot of threats that had been coming in over the last year, or more,” de la Guerra said.  “Threats come in on former presidents and, and current presidents on a daily basis. Those need to be balanced through what we call protective intelligence to make a determination as to what’s valid, and what’s not.”

He pointed out a crucial distinction between this attempt on Trump’s life and similar incidents throughout history. “The majority of assassinations and attempted assassinations that we have seen of political and important figures around the world in the last few years have been conducted from a very close proximity,” De la Guerra said. “Not from a far distance of over 100 yards from a rooftop with a rifle. That’s something that we generally see in movies.”

According to the expert, security in the country will change in the future. He claimed that Trump’s security team is already displaying a more noticeable level of security. “The president is typically protected by a tactical squad of the Secret Service known as the CAT team, or counter-assault team. He stated, “Those people are usually out of sight, out of mind, yet they are always present. “As soon as the incident occurred, you saw the agents in black uniforms with rifles, with tactical gear on, they made their presence immediately known as is their protocol.”

While this incident was a sobering reminder of the importance of security measures, it also presents an opportunity to re-examine security measures and prioritize the safety of public figures.

Here are some key takeaways from this incident that can inform future security protocols:

1. Integrate Protective Intelligence: Threats targeted against leaders including past and present should be rigorously assessed as part of protective intelligence efforts.

2. Enhance Security Perimeter: Security protocols should be designed to account for all potential entry points, including rooftops and other hard-to-reach areas. Regular drills and exercises should be conducted to evaluate and improve security measures and readiness for unforeseen events.

3. Increase Visibility and Transparency: The presence of security personnel should be more visible and transparent, particularly in high-risk areas. This can help deter potential threats and reassure the public that measures are in place to ensure their safety.

4. Address Online Radicalization: Efforts should be made to counter online propaganda and extremist content that may be fueling violent rhetoric. This requires collaboration with social media companies, law enforcement, and civil society organizations.

The post Evaluating Security Gaps: Lessons from the Trump Campaign Rally appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Over the past 12 years, the POTY Ceremony has evolved into Africa’s premier vote-based endorsement, attracting policymakers, industry titans, civil society leaders, and thought leaders from across the continent and beyond. It has become a revered platform for honouring people-centred leadership and celebrating individuals who champion a pan-African agenda in their respective fields.

Reflecting on the illustrious list of past winners is akin to a journey through the annals of African leadership. From the visionary Sudanese businessman Mo Ibrahim, Founder of the Ibrahim Prize for Leadership (2012); to the transformative leadership of H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria (2015);  and the indefatigable efforts of Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, World Health Organisation (2020).

Other past winners of the ALM Persons of the Year Awards include H.E. Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria (2013); H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania (2014); Mr. Mo Dewji, Tanzanian Businessman and Philanthropist (2016); H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda (2017); H.E. John Magufuli, former President of Tanzania (2018); Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President of African Development Bank (2019); H.E. Lazarus Chakwera, President of Malawi (2021); and H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone (2022). Each recipient has left an indelible mark on Africa’s landscape, inspiring hope and igniting progress.

In the spotlight, this year stands His Excellency William Ruto, President of Kenya, who has been named the African of the Year 2023. President Ruto’s unwavering commitment to regional cooperation, inclusive trade, and advocating for Africa’s interests on the global stage embodies the essence of pan-African leadership.

Beside President Ruto is the esteemed former President of Tanzania, H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, who continues to be a steadfast advocate for peace, security, and sustainable development in Africa. His insights on the nexus between peace and development are bound to enrich the dialogue and inspire action towards a more prosperous Africa.

The 2024 edition of the POTY Ceremony is a convergence of minds, which brought together over 300 participants representing diverse sectors and geographies. From political and diplomatic leaders to industry titans and academic luminaries, the event promises to foster meaningful exchanges and forge new alliances in the pursuit of Africa’s socio-economic advancement.

Joining the distinguished roster of attendees is a lineup of exceptional leaders, including Dr. Kailesh Jagutpal, Mauritius’ Minister of Health and Wellness, and Lady Justice Martha Koome, Chief Justice of Kenya. His Excellency George Weah, Former President, Liberia; Hon. Cllr. Fonati Koffa, Speaker, Liberia House of Representative; The Hon. Dr Kailesh Jagutpal, Minister Of Health And Wellness, Mauritius; Ngozi Ekeoma, CEO, NAPAL Petroleum; Dr Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan (FCA), CEO, FirstBank Group; Daniel Asiedu, Managing Director, OmniBSIC Bank, Accra, Ghana; Mr. Henry Fallah Saamoi, The Chief Executive Officer, International Bank (Liberia) Limited Monrovia, Liberia; Mr Gil Bires, Director-General, Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEX-Mozambique);Adanech Abebe, Mayor of Addis Ababa.and several other notable leaders.

Their presence underscores the event’s commitment to recognising excellence across various spheres of African society.

As we embark on this journey of celebration and reflection, we invite you to join us in honouring Africa’s finest and reaffirming our collective commitment to a brighter future for the continent.

The post ALM’s POTY 2024: Honouring Africa’s Finest! appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Almost 500 al-Shabab fighters first crossed into eastern Ethiopia last week, clashing with Ethiopian forces along the border. U.S. assessments suggest they may have penetrated as much as 150 kilometres into Ethiopia before being stopped.

“It appears that the Ethiopians have largely contained and defeated this incursion,” General Stephen Townsend, the outgoing commander of U.S. Africa Command, said Thursday during a call with the Washington-based Defense Writers Group.

Ethiopian officials Thursday likewise confirmed the al-Shabab attack had been repulsed.
“Our brave soldiers foiled a plan al-Shabab was working on for at least a year and defeated the fighters they sent to Ethiopia within three days,” Mustafe Omer, the president of Ethiopia’s Somali region, told reporters.

Omar also said that Ethiopia is planning to create a “security buffer zone” aimed at countering al-Shabab attacks.

“We cannot merely watch an open border where the militants mobilize themselves on the other side [Somalia] to attack us,” he said. “We must prevent such a threat and not wait until they come to our border.”

AFRICOM’s Townsend agreed that al-Shabab will try again.

“This is not a fluke. … I don’t believe this is a one-off,” he added in response to a question from VOA.

“It’s only been less than a year ago that al-Shabab emir [Ahmed] Diriye called for an increased emphasis on external attacks and increased emphasis on attacking Western targets in the Horn of Africa,” Townsend said. “This is a response.”

According to intelligence shared by U.N. member states, al-Shabab currently commands between 7,000 and 12,000 fighters and is spending approximately $24 million a year – a quarter of its budget – on weapons, explosives and increasingly drones.

Townsend further warned Thursday that al-Shabab has been emboldened by recent political turmoil in Somalia, which consumed the attention of Somali officials and politicians for much of the last 18 months, as well as by the December 2020 decision by then-U.S. President Donald Trump to end a U.S. troop presence in Somalia.

That decision has since been reversed, and the AFRICOM commander said Somalia’s new president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has also taken positive steps.

“Al-Shabab got bigger, bolder, stronger,” Townsend said. “So now we’ve got to blunt the initiative that they’ve [al-Shabab] enjoyed for 15 months or more.

“We’ve already seen an uptick in Somali security forces operations,” he added.

U.S. officials and some analysts worry that in addition to Ethiopia, which al-Shabab had previously attacked in 2013 and 2014, al-Shabab also plans to expand operations in Kenya, Djibouti and beyond.

“The militants have been enjoying in their movements and military mobilizations because of the absence of Somali National Army offensives against their hideouts and the areas they still control,” said Abdisalam Yusuf Guled, the former deputy head of the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency.

“So they [al-Shabab militants] have got the choice to attack wherever they want and whenever they want,” he said. “To me, it [Ethiopia] was a rare attack but always predictable.”

There are also growing concerns that al-Shabab is growing more powerful and more influential within al-Qaida itself.

Intelligence from the U.S. and from U.N. member states indicates al-Shabab leader Ahmed Diriye, also known as Ahmed Umar Abu Ubaidah, is part of al-Qaida’s Hittin Committee, which directs the group’s global operations.

The intelligence further suggests that al-Shabab, rather than taking money from al-Qaida’s core leadership, is directly funding it with some of its revenue.

(VOA)

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U.S. President Donald Trump welcomes Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 3, 2017. REUTERS/Carlos Barria

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