The election of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States (US) could have profound consequences domestically and globally, with significant implications for Namibia and the African continent.
Trump’s ‘America first’ approach, shaped by economic nationalism, could disrupt foreign aid, climate funding and multilateral collaboration.
Domestically, a Trump presidency would likely reinvigorate nationalist and populist movements within the Republican Party. Critics have highlighted that this party, under Trump, has often sought to suppress voter turnout among minorities – African Americans, Latinos and Asian Americans. These measures reflect ongoing divisions in American society and demonstrate a democracy grappling with inclusivity and fairness.
In terms of foreign policy, Trump would likely continue prioritising economic nationalism, military strength and a scaled-back global role, potentially affecting international partnerships and aid.
Namibia and the United States have longstanding differences on several sensitive issues, such as Palestine, climate change, and United Nations reform. Namibia has supported Palestinian statehood, contrasting sharply with Trump’s pro-Israel policies, which could exacerbate diplomatic tensions.
Another issue of difference is the economic embargo on trade by the US against Cuba since February 1962, which remains in place up to this day.
Additionally, Namibia has been proactive in climate action and adaptation projects, relying on international mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
Trump’s past scepticism about climate science and withdrawal from the Paris Agreement threaten Namibia’s environmental resilience efforts, which are heavily dependent on sustained international support.
Another key divergence lies in the reform of the United Nations, specifically the Security Council. Namibia has advocated greater representation of African and other underrepresented nations on the council.
Trump’s disdain for multilateral institutions, combined with derogatory remarks about African states during his first term, such as preferring European over African immigrants, underscores his administration’s likely resistance to substantial UN reforms.
Trump’s previous tenure saw reduced emphasis on foreign aid, focusing instead on prioritising American interests. Namibia, which has benefited from US support in health and infrastructure, including substantial aid for HIV-AIDS and water projects, could face funding instability if similar policies are enacted.
Specifically, the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia has mobilised over N$700 million from the GCF, supporting critical climate resilience projects. A renewed Trump presidency could disrupt this funding.
Trump’s scepticism of multilateral institutions like the United Nations could weaken collective action on global issues, including climate change, health crises and development goals. His past withdrawal from key UN agencies and criticism of peacekeeping operations posed challenges to the UN’s effectiveness.
Trump’s protectionist trade policies could jeopardise economic relationships with Africa. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), essential for facilitating African exports, faced uncertainty under his first term. Renewed emphasis on ‘America First’ could compromise trade benefits vital to Namibia’s economy.
Trump’s critical view of the North-Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato), coupled with his preference for a diminished US role in European security, could embolden adversaries like Russia.
While Trump has expressed interest in negotiating peace with Russia, potentially alleviating the conflict in Ukraine, such a move carries risks.
Reducing US involvement in Nato could destabilise European security and indirectly impact global markets, including the prices of wheat and oil.
A potential Kamala Harris presidency would have represented a stark departure from Trump’s policies, especially regarding climate action, healthcare and trade relations.
Namibia must remain vigilant about the uncertainties a Trump presidency could bring.
As the US grapples with its internal divisions and global responsibilities, Namibia’s diplomatic strategies and development goals may face new challenges.
Lot Ndamanomhata
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