In a 15-minute PBS interview, Christiane Amanpour repeatedly tried to get Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), to criticize President Trump, his tariffs, and USAID cuts. Before bringing him on, she fear-mongered about the effects of these policies. But that’s not why I’m sharing this. My focus is on Dr. Adesina’s powerful words and vision. He didn’t take the bait, and his response was inspiring.
Dr. Adesina, whose second term ends in September 2025, shared an Africa-first vision. He said, “The era of aid is gone,” and emphasized, “You don’t grow by depending on others. You grow by expanding your domestic resources.” He championed private capital as the engine of growth and called Africa “an investor’s dream,” radiating optimism about the continent’s resources and people.
He also called for stronger U.S.-Africa ties, stating, “I want U.S. and Africa walking a lot more together.” He said that investment partnerships between African countries and the United States must be on Africa’s terms, prioritizing the continent’s interests and people.
This man sounded like the Donald Trump of Africa—focused on Africa first and self-reliance. With his AfDB tenure ending, what’s next—perhaps a presidency in Africa?
I wonder if President Trump or Elon Musk have ever spoken with this man. If not, I think they should connect with Dr. Adesina on X @akin_adesina and engage with an African leader who could transform the continent.
Make Africa Great Again