By Samuel Ouma
U.S. lawmakers and African diplomats came together on Africa Day to reaffirm their commitment to building stronger partnerships between the United States and the African continent.
The event, held at the U.S. Capitol, spotlighted Africa’s growing geopolitical and economic importance and raised concerns over the United States’ shrinking diplomatic presence across the continent.
Hosted by Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) and Congressman Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), the press conference gathered members of the African diplomatic corps and noted the urgency of reinforcing U.S.-Africa engagement amidst increasing competition from China and Russia.
“On May 25, 1963, the Organization of African Unity was established, setting the foundation for a unified Africa. While the name has changed, the vision remains the same,” said Congresswoman McCormick. “Africa is no longer just the future. It’s the now. It is home to several of the world’s fastest growing economies and holds 30% of the world’s minerals and 12% of global oil reserves.”
McCormick criticized the Trump administration’s retreat from sustained investment in Africa, particularly highlighting cuts to USAID and dwindling diplomatic resources.
“We must act now. We cannot be reactive and allow this to continue. The United States must develop a bold, clear, and forward-looking agenda for Africa—one that respects African leadership and puts America back in a position of partnership.”
Congressman Jonathan Jackson echoed McCormick’s concerns, adding historical context to the U.S.-Africa relationship. “African bodies helped build this Capitol and this nation,” he said. “America first should not mean removing our aid from USAID in Africa. It should not mean cutting our commitment to PEPFAR and HIV prevention,” Congressman Jackson (D-IL), said
Jackson also condemned punitive economic measures against African nations, singling out South Africa as an example.
“South Africa is a sovereign nation that lived through apartheid and emerged as a democracy. We stand with them. They speak with moral clarity, and we must do the same.”
The remarks were followed by a series of statements from African ambassadors who thanked the lawmakers for their continued support while urging more meaningful and equitable partnerships.
Elsie Kanza, Ambassador of Tanzania, emphasized the shift from aid to trade: “We’ve long talked about moving from aid to trade, and we are encouraged by the commitment in that direction. Health security is not just an African issue—it’s a global one. We’re glad to see ongoing support for PEPFAR, which remains vital.”
Uganda’s representative also said there is a need for action over rhetoric.
“We are grateful for these continued conversations about Africa, but we need to move beyond dialogue. In Uganda, we host nearly 2 million refugees. Standing with Africa means addressing our health, security, and social systems in tangible ways.”
The ambassador stressed the importance of having honest, sometimes difficult, diplomatic conversations. “We must be willing to agree to disagree, but always in the spirit of constructive engagement.”
