Unraveling the Effects of US Foreign Policy in Africa

Abstract

Christopher Korkor*

US foreign policy toward Africa during decolonization was nominal and negligible. Its engagement was rooted in spheres of influence and ideological politics when policymakers labeled Africa a ‘backwater.’1 US policy changed dramatically after 9/11, and the continent was incorporated into its national security policy. This article investigates the US's renewed strategic interests in the continent and its effect on African peace and security and political stability. This paper is built on my recent dissertation. To capture the impact of US foreign policy toward Africa, the paper uses a mixed- methods research design (quantitative/qualitative) by first gathering quantitative data on the variables of interest across 54 recognized African states from varied sources with a dynamic panel model. The main finding is that US training of armed forces from various African countries decreases casualties from terrorism but simultaneously increases the likelihood of civil war. This finding contrasts markedly with the dominant view in international relations. The dominant view is that the US’s African Policy has been a disastrous failure, contributing to many unintended consequences that undermine African states’ political stability.

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