The African Union has criticised the Trump administration’s latest growth of its journey ban, describing the transfer as discriminatory and warning that it dangers undermining many years of diplomatic, academic and financial cooperation between Africa and america.
In an announcement launched on Thursday, the AU mentioned the manager order—signed by Donald Trump, United States president—represents a setback for Africa-US relations. The order blocks almost all journey to the US for nationals of twelve international locations, together with seven African nations: Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Sudan, and Somalia.
Learn additionally: Trump imposes journey ban on 12 international locations, citing safety issues
A partial ban has additionally been positioned on residents of seven different international locations—Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—limiting entry to sure visa classes, together with these for momentary employment.
The African Union Fee warned that the restrictions might have damaging results, significantly within the areas of schooling, commerce and diplomacy.
“The Fee stays involved in regards to the potential detrimental affect of such measures on people-to-people ties, academic trade, industrial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations which were fastidiously nurtured over many years,” the assertion learn. “Africa and america share mutual pursuits in selling peace, prosperity, and world cooperation.”
Learn additionally: African Union: Management in direction of the long run
Whereas the AU acknowledged the sovereign proper of states to safeguard their borders, it known as for a extra balanced and evidence-based strategy, one that features dialogue with affected nations.
“The African Union Fee respectfully calls upon the US administration to contemplate adopting a extra consultative strategy and to interact in constructive dialogue with the international locations involved.”
The brand new restrictions, first reported by CBS Information, are resulting from take impact at 12:01 a.m. EDT (5:01 WAT) on June 9, 2025. The order clarifies that visas issued previous to that date will stay legitimate. No finish date has been specified, although the coverage mandates periodic evaluations to evaluate whether or not changes are wanted.
Learn additionally: Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf elected new African Union Fee Chair
President Trump has mentioned the checklist of affected international locations could also be revised if “materials enhancements” are made, and that additional nations could also be added in response to rising world threats.
The African Union’s response displays rising concern on the continent that america is shifting away from its conventional partnerships.
Whether or not the US administration responds to the AU’s name for engagement stays to be seen—however for now, relations seem more and more strained.
