Trump Plans to Close Six US Embassies in Africa

Proposed U.S. Embassy Closures in Africa Raise Concerns Over Diplomatic Engagement

Insider

The Trump administration is contemplating significant reductions to the U.S. diplomatic presence abroad, with Africa poised to experience the most substantial impact. An internal State Department memo, as reported by Reuters, outlines plans to close up to 30 U.S. missions worldwide, including 10 embassies and 17 consulates. Notably, six of these embassy closures are proposed for African nations: the Central African Republic, Eritrea, Gambia, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. Additionally, consulates in Douala, Cameroon, and Durban, South Africa, are under consideration for closure. 

These proposed closures are part of a broader initiative to halve the State Department’s budget and reduce foreign aid by nearly 75%. The administration argues that such measures are necessary to streamline operations and align with its “America First” policy agenda. 

However, critics express concern that these cuts could undermine U.S. influence on the continent, especially as other global powers, such as China and Russia, continue to expand their diplomatic and economic engagements in Africa. The potential reduction in diplomatic staff and resources may hinder efforts to promote political stability, economic development, and security cooperation in the region. 

While the proposed changes are still under review and have not been finalized, the prospect of diminished U.S. diplomatic presence in Africa raises questions about the future of American engagement and leadership on the continent.