The African Union (AU) commissioner for political affairs, peace and security, Bankole Adeoye, has pledged to ensure a continued strategic engagement between the United States of America and Africa.
Mr Adeoye made the commitment on Wednesday on his verified Twitter handle, now X (https://x.com/US_AU/status/1917857975500145070/photo/1).
The AU official disclosed that it was about to set off on one of its most important missions since its new leadership assumed office in March 2025.
He added that the continental body would make the case to Washington, D.C. for continued U.S. engagement in Africa and for a strategic dialogue to further deepen AU, US ties.
Mr Adeoye, who was recently re-elected for a second term by African leaders in February, said he would travel to the U.S. for his first in-person meeting with senior Trump officials working on Africa.
The AU diplomat said the visit would launch the beginning of a constructive relationship with the Trump administration and the African Union.
He said, ” Next week’s visit to Washington, D.C., offers the AU a chance to highlight that its Agenda 2063 aspirations align closely with America First Priorities – both aiming to make Africa stronger, safer and prosperous.
” Bankole will push to advance shared AU and U.S. priorities across the continent. These priorities will keep Africa and America stronger, safer, and prosperous.”
On security, Mr Adeoye said that peacebuilding for the AU was critical, adding that many regions in Africa were marred by conflicts and insecurity.
He added, ” But with the new Trump administration, the AU believes it has found a new ally willing to foster peace across the continent.
“The Trump administration has declared its international focus will be peace initiatives across the globe, including Africa. Within its first 100 days, the Trump administration has already engaged in peace efforts in Africa.
” It has contributed to the efforts to bring the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda to pursue peace through dialogue.
” In a sign of wanting to work closer with the AU, in a State Department Digital Press Briefing on April 17, Trump Senior Advisor on Africa, with strong Nigerian ties, Dr Massad Boulos, praised the AU’s effort in seeking to bring peace to the region over the years.”
On trade, the AU diplomat said Africa has become a more significant player within the global economy, adding that By 2050, the continent will have the youngest and most dynamic working population.
Mr Adeoye said, ” Combine this with Africa’s critical mineral resources, and Bankole intends to make the point that AU member states are aligned with U.S. interests in advancing investment and economic ties.
” The AU’s collaboration with the new Trump administration will be based on a balanced and respectful partnership, which is key to engaging with Africa.
” President Trump’s appointment of Massad Boulos as his senior advisor on Africa is the new administration’s clearest signal that it understands Africa’s uniqueness and potential. As recently expressed by Boulos, the U.S. under President Trump wants a win-win relationship with Africa.”
(NAN)
