U.S. President Donald Trump's new Africa strategy shifts from aid to trade under a "commercial diplomacy" push, urging ambassadors to broker business deals rather than manage aid programs. Washington touts $6 billion in early agreements, but African nations face steep tariffs — 30% on South African goods, 50% on Lesotho exports — threatening over 100,000 jobs and straining economies. Uncertainty surrounds AGOA, a trade pact expiring in September, while China deepens its zero-tariff engagement with 53 African countries. Critics warn the U.S. cannot promote trade while restricting access, raising fears Africa could lose out as Washington prioritizes critical minerals.
A report by the U.N. children's agency says 181 million children younger than 5 live in severe food poverty. That's more than a quarter of the world's youngest children. Africa's population of more than 1.3 billion people is one of the most affected mainly due to conflict, climate crises and rising food prices. The report says the continent accounts for one-third of the global burden and 13 of the 20 most affected countries. But it says some progress has been recorded in Africa, too. In northern Nigeria, women are being trained in gardening and cooking with the local produce.
