The Biden administration has faced mounting criticism for its handling of US-Africa relations, with political analysts accusing it of failing to curb the exploitation of Africa’s resources. As President Joe Biden prepares to leave office, his foreign policy toward the continent has come under fire for perpetuating imperialistic practices.
Political analysts in South Africa argue that the Biden administration has not done enough to prevent foreign companies from plundering Africa’s wealth. Despite issuing statements highlighting its mandates, critics say Biden’s government focused largely on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, neglecting Africa.
Dr. Metji Makgoba, an independent political analyst, criticized Biden’s foreign policy, calling it a failure on multiple fronts.
“The American foreign policies are imperialist and see African states as a fertile ground for looting. African countries are divided, and the West has used this divide to exploit individual countries strategically while ensuring they disrupt its possible formation of unity.
“Biden is known for advancing progressive and liberal politics of inclusion. He represents values of white supremacy, which still perpetuates the oppression of the continent. While he also spoke passionately about respecting the sovereignty of African states, he did not walk the talk because the US is about imperialism.”
Metji Makgoba
He argued that the US employs economic, military, and democratic institutions to further its global agenda, which many African leaders view as hostile. This sentiment was echoed by Professor Dirk Kotze, who noted the lack of specific US policies focused on Africa.
He pointed out that while the US has been involved in peacekeeping missions in Libya and Somalia through NATO, Africa remains a low priority.
Protests Against US Military Presence
The discontent has been particularly evident in Niger, where a military junta overthrew the government in 2023. The junta demanded the removal of US military personnel stationed at a $110 million base, a decision supported by widespread protests in the capital, Niamey.
The State Department labeled the government change as a “coup,” which, under US policy, necessitated the suspension of military operations and called for the restoration of democratic governance in Niger.
Despite this, the Biden administration maintained its stance, with Biden stating that the decision to withdraw was final. The move led to further tensions, as neighboring Chad also demanded the withdrawal of US forces and threatened to cancel agreements governing US deployments.
The situation in Niger reflects a broader trend of African nations pushing back against foreign military presence.
The junta expelled not only US forces but also French troops and the French ambassador, citing France’s colonial legacy. Similar expulsions of French forces occurred in Mali and Burkina Faso in recent years, signaling a growing resistance to foreign influence in the region.
Kotze highlighted the continued influence of the French government in African countries, suggesting that the US’s minimal role in Africa is part of a larger geopolitical dynamic.
As Biden’s presidency winds down, his administration’s approach to Africa leaves a complex legacy marked by criticism of imperialistic practices and ongoing tensions with African nations demanding greater autonomy.
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