US Travel Ban Risks Damaging Decades of Africa-US Cooperation, AU Commission Warns

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

The African Union (AU) Commission has expressed deep concern over the United States’ newly announced travel ban affecting several African nations. On Wednesday banned the citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States, saying the move was needed to protect against "foreign terrorists" and other security threats.

In an official statement released on June 6, the Commission acknowledged that while every country has the sovereign right to safeguard its borders and ensure the security of its citizens, such actions must be taken in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and mindful of existing partnerships.

“While acknowledging the sovereign right of nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens, the Commission urged the U.S. to exercise this right in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa,” the AU Commission said.

The AU warned that the new restrictions could have a damaging impact on people-to-people connections, educational exchanges, commercial activities, and diplomatic ties that have been carefully built over decades.

“The Commission remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades. Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation.”

The AU further urged the U.S. administration to adopt a more consultative approach and engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned. It also called for transparent communication and, where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have prompted the decision.

“The African Union Commission respectfully calls upon the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned. The Commission appeals for transparent communication, and where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have informed this decision,” the statement added.

“The Commission stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States.”

The countries affected by the latest travel ban are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. "We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm," Trump said in a video posted on X. He said the list could be revised and new countries could be added.

The U.S. government has yet to publicly respond to the African Union’s call for dialogue. The proclamation is effective on June 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT). Visas issued before that date will not be revoked, the order said.