One of the most powerful tools that is utilized in Washington by both parties is distraction. The best way to describe this practice is by using the metaphor of the red bouncing ball. Throw one into a crowded room and the focus will be on that than whatever agenda one is trying to achieve.
The week of July 7th may be an instance of that tactic being used. The State Visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was the main story in the eyes of many including those in the chattering class and International News. However a subsequent meeting later in the week is also drawing attention.
From July 9th through the 11th, The Trump Administration held what can best be described as a Mini-Summit. The guests were 5 African leaders of countries that rarely break into the 24/7 Newscycle. Other countries have that dubious distinction of being highlighted for reasons such as Political Chaos and Militancy.
The five countries that attended this summit were Liberia, Senegal, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau and Gabon. One may ask why were these countries chosen? The answer is quite simplistic. When the Trump Administration shut down the US Agency for International Development (USAID) earlier this year, one of the regions that saw the most negative impact was West Africa. Clearly the White House is now keenly aware that the decision had some negative impact in the region.
In a recent paper for the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Cameron Hudson of their Africa Program correctly points out the current Trump Administration having ” a focus on securing U.S. access to critical minerals, countering terrorist threats, and challenging China’s increasing economic hegemony have emerged as the three areas where the new administration has articulated an early sense of focus.”
Now after considering these policy goals why the interest in these 5 nations? Gabon makes the most sense as it has completed a transition back to democratic governance after having a Military Coup a couple of years ago. Guinea-Bissau is on the verge of having a peaceful transfer of power. This is a rare event in that country’s history. A successful election could lead to US investments being made in the country.
Liberia has a unique history. Being founded by those who were at one time slaves in the Southern United States, the countries have a unique bond and history. The country has suffered from a tragic and costly civil war but has been able to resolve their differences and have not only elections but also a Peaceful transfer of power. Any US aid would probably be a Godsend to them right now.
Senegal has huge potential. It has been developing offshore Gold, Oil and Gas Fields, started an ambitious Hydroelectric project which will allow the country to share power with both Gambia and Guinea-Bissau when it comes online. During the meeting Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye may have stolen the show. He took the time to compliment President Trump on his Golf Skills and invited him to build or invest in a Golf Course in Africa. This is something to keep an eye on in the future.
Now what about Mauritania? One of the most underwritten stories about African Energy is that it could be on the route of a planned Gas pipeline between Nigeria and Algeria and will provide energy to the EU. The concerns that Mauritania has regards the potential spillover of Militant Activity from Mali. Already on two occasions there have been incursions into Mali from Mauritania. We know that this could be an ask from the Mauritanian Government.
Mauritania also has two things working against it. Both of these concerns are connected. One is although it is illegal. Slavery is still practiced in the country and the African minority face challenges when trying to emigrate. These are two issues that need to be addressed if Washington decides to make any deal at all with Mauritania.
With the discussions regarding tariffs also generating alot of ink over the last couple of weeks hardly any mention of these countries have been made regarding any implementation of them.
Let’s see how long it will take for these talks to bear fruit….