Yaounde: Last week, Donald Trump made history by winning the US presidency for a second, non-consecutive term, defeating Democrat Kamala Harris with 312 votes to her 226. Harris, currently the US Vice President, conceded, stating that while the outcome was not what they fought for, the fight for democracy would continue.
According to Cameroon News Agency, Trump’s return has caused skepticism across Africa, particularly due to fears of reduced funding for crucial areas like healthcare and tightened immigration laws affecting African citizens. Experts suggest looking at Trump’s first term for insights into his potential policy impacts on Cameroon.
Trade and economic relations may remain strained, as Trump had previously banned Cameroon from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allowed tax-free exports to the US. This ban, a response to Cameroon’s internal conflict, is unlikely to be lifted. Moreover, private US companies might hesitate in trade or investment without clear support from the Trum
p administration.
The US has been a key ally in Cameroon’s fight against HIV/AIDS through The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). However, Trump’s “America first” stance could threaten continued funding, putting nearly 480,000 Cameroonians living with HIV at risk of losing access to free treatment.
Climate action is another area of concern. Cameroonian activist Eugene Nforngwa warned that Trump’s return might undermine international climate efforts, reversing progress made under Biden. With recent severe weather events in Cameroon, climate change denialism could exacerbate these challenges.
Immigration policies are also likely to tighten, possibly affecting programs like the Diversity Visa, which has benefited many Cameroonians. Trump’s focus on reducing unchecked immigration could lead to stricter entry requirements.
Trump’s administration previously prioritized counterterrorism over human rights in Cameroon, focusing on military assistance despite reports of human rights abuses. Th
is trend could continue if terrorism remains a concern.
Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, in power for 42 years, might find Trump’s focus on internal US issues advantageous, as it could mean less scrutiny on Cameroon’s governance.
In conclusion, a second Trump presidency may complicate immigration to the US, benefit Cameroon’s government by reducing external pressure, and potentially impact funding for counterterrorism efforts. As Cameroon approaches its 2025 elections, Biya might find comfort in a US administration less focused on democracy and human rights.