A growing number of young Africans believe that the policies of US President Donald Trump could produce positive results for the continent, particularly in security cooperation, youth empowerment, military support and counterterrorism, according to the 2026 African Youth Survey.
The findings reveal a significant change in attitudes towards Trump and the United States. Before the 2024 presidential election, respondents were considerably more confident that a government led by Joe Biden would benefit Africa.
Two years later, however, many young Africans appear willing to judge the Trump administration according to practical results rather than political language or diplomatic style.
Optimism across several policy areas
The survey found that 60 per cent of respondents were very or somewhat optimistic about the administration’s potential contribution to youth empowerment. The same proportion expressed optimism about security cooperation and counterterrorism.
Some 59 per cent believed the administration could have a positive effect on trade relations and support for democracy. Military assistance, development aid and broader political relations each received an optimism rating of 58 per cent.
The results were based on interviews with approximately 4,900 people aged between 18 and 24 in 16 African countries. While the findings cannot represent every young person across Africa’s 54 recognised countries, they offer a broad indication of how attitudes are changing.
A more transactional relationship
Many respondents appear increasingly interested in partnerships that deliver employment, investment, infrastructure, technology and security. Trump’s transactional approach to international relations may therefore appeal to young Africans frustrated by traditional aid models and unfulfilled diplomatic promises.
The perceived influence of the United States has also increased. Some 81 per cent of respondents identified America as a major global influence, narrowly ahead of China at 79 per cent.
This represents a reversal from the 2024 survey, when young Africans expected Biden’s policies to be more beneficial than Trump’s by 42 per cent to 23 per cent.
Deep concerns remain
The optimism does not amount to unconditional support. Nearly half of those surveyed believed that reductions in American development assistance would damage their countries, particularly in healthcare and disease prevention.
The Trump administration’s sharp reduction of USAID programmes has affected humanitarian and development operations across the continent. Countries heavily dependent on foreign assistance have faced concerns about medicine shortages, maternal healthcare and support for vulnerable communities.
At the same time, approximately one quarter of respondents believed the cuts could ultimately have a positive effect by forcing African governments to become more self-reliant, accountable and capable of addressing domestic problems without permanent dependence on foreign aid.
A majority also expressed concern that Washington could disregard international law when pursuing access to Africa’s strategic minerals and natural resources.
Pragmatism rather than loyalty
The findings suggest that young Africans are not simply aligning themselves with Trump or the United States. Instead, they are evaluating global powers according to what they can deliver.
For Washington, the survey presents both an opportunity and a warning. Greater security cooperation, trade and investment could strengthen American relations with Africa’s rapidly growing young population. However, policies perceived as exploitative, unpredictable or dismissive of African sovereignty could quickly reverse that goodwill.
Newshub Editorial in Africa – 4 August 2026
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