Trump’s presidency and the Horn of Africa

The Horn views this shift with a mix of caution and urgency. Trump’s “America First” approach may profoundly impact US engagement in the Horn of Africa, an already volatile region. Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and Djibouti stand at a crossroads as the US foreign policy could either ease tensions and uphold human dignity or exacerbate existing crises by propping up oppressive regimes.

The Horn of Africa, with its strategic Red Sea coastline and proximity to the Middle East, is a focal point for global competition among the US, China, and Russia. But, the most pressing question is whether the US will finally prioritise humanitarian concerns over political expediency. As the Trump administration reengages with the Horn, there is a need for policies that recognise the urgent need for true strategic engagement, stability, and human dignity rather than bolstering authoritarian regimes or turning a blind eye to the suffering of the groups.