The recent decision by the United States to impose a 10% tariff on exports has sparked alarm within Africa’s economic and diplomatic circles, with growing calls for a unified continental response to what many see as an unfair trade blow.
Speaking to JoyNews’ Emmanuel Dzivenu on the sidelines of the 60th Union of African Journalists training for young reporters in Cairo Egypt, former Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister, Ambassador Dr. Mohamed Higazy, says the time has come for Africa to speak with one voice.
“A collective voice must be heard. It is not about one country standing in opposition to the United States, but about a continent that believes in itself and in its strategic relationship with the United States – one that must be negotiated collectively so we can secure the concessions due to us as a continent.”
“Not just for one country – but for all of Africa. No one has been delivered from injustice over the past seventy years. What has been the result of that? We must seek African-led solutions. Africans are talented, resourceful, and resilient – and many of the challenges we face are shared,” Ambassador Dr. Mohamed Higazy said.
The United States justifies the tariffs – first introduced under former President Donald Trump and being reinforced in 2025 – as a response to what it terms “unfair trade practices.” But for many African nations operating under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the move undermines long-standing trade partnerships and raises serious questions about the continent’s standing in global negotiations.
In 2024, Africa’s total GDP stands at around $2.8 trillion – less than one-tenth of the United States’ GDP, which exceeds $29 trillion. Ghana contributes about $234 billion to the global pie. On their own, African economies appear small. But together, they represent a growing market, vast natural resources, and the youngest population in the world.
Ambassador Higazy says that strength lies not in size – but in unity.
“It is not about one country standing in opposition to the United States, but about a continent that believes in itself and in its strategic relationship with the United States. One that must be negotiated collectively so we can secure the concessions due to us as a continent.”
He insists Africa must move from merely reacting to global shocks to strategically shaping them.
“We must seek African-led solutions. Africans are talented, resourceful, and resilient – and many of the challenges we face are shared. Success in one country can be replicated in others. Let’s appoint an envoy. Craft a clear, unified message. And make sure Washington hears it,” he said.
The former diplomat points to Egypt’s own development strides – particularly the building of its new administrative capital – as a model that could inspire a continental urban development strategy. He believes Africa has the institutions, capacity, and willpower to negotiate as equals.
“Why don’t we examine and learn from the many successes we’ve had? African countries can collaborate. African companies can bid on major projects. We can be good African partners,” he said.
As competition for influence on the continent grows between global powers, Dr. Higazy warned that the United States risks losing its strategic advantage if it fails to engage Africa respectfully and seriously.
“We must emphasise that we seek a strategic partnership with the United States. And if the United States truly values its relationship with Africa, then it must listen to and accommodate African positions.”
The proposed path forward is not confrontation, he clarified – but coordination.
“Perhaps we can compose a new vision that represents all corners of the continent. A Secretary or envoy can present our African viewpoint to the American administration.Together, we can shape a new image of Africa. One that speaks not in fragmented whispers – but in a confident, collective voice.”
Dr. Higazy urged African nations to deepen partnerships, learn from each other, and reshape the global narrative around the continent.
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