In a bid to deepen diplomatic ties between Africa and the United States, the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Bankole Adeoye, has embarked on a visit to Washington, D.C. The mission aims to strengthen cooperation between the two entities, particularly in areas of peace, security, and economic development.
Adeoye, who was re-elected for a second term in office in February 2025, is set to meet with senior U.S. officials during his visit. The talks come at a crucial time as the African Union seeks to elevate Africa’s priorities within U.S. foreign policy.
As the head of the Mission for Peace and Partnership, Adeoye’s responsibilities at the AU place him at the forefront of the continent’s political and security engagements, particularly in the area of peacebuilding, a priority he is committed to advancing during his second term.
With many African nations facing ongoing conflicts, political instability, and security challenges, the AU views a partnership with the Trump administration as an opportunity to strengthen efforts for conflict resolution and post-conflict recovery.
In its first 100 days, the Trump administration has shown a growing interest in African peacebuilding, including support for diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
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Additionally, Trump’s newly appointed Senior Advisor on Africa, Dr. Massad Boulos, recently commended the AU’s long-standing contributions to regional peace efforts during a U.S. State Department briefing.
During the visit, Adeoye is expected to advocate for greater economic integration between the U.S. and Africa. The AU believes that Africa’s demographic advantages, along with its vast natural resources and growing markets, create opportunities for mutually beneficial trade and investment.
With projections indicating that Africa will have the world’s youngest and most dynamic workforce by 2050, the AU aims to position the continent not only as a recipient of investment but also as a future hub for global innovation and productivity.
This visit also provides an opportunity to align the AU’s ambitious Agenda 2063 with elements of U.S. foreign policy, including President Trump’s “America First” priorities, which seek to foster global partnerships that strengthen domestic growth.
As the African Union delegation prepares for its trip, there is a renewed sense of purpose to ensure that Africa’s voice is clearly heard in Washington, D.C. This visit is seen as a step toward building a stronger, more cooperative future between Africa and the United States.
The United States has reaffirmed its support for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSMS), pledging assistance through avenues beyond United Nations Security Council Resolution 2719. This commitment was expressed during a meeting between U.S. Ambassador to the African Union, Stephanie Sullivan, and Commissioner Adeoye.
The meeting comes ahead of the African Union delegation’s visit to Washington, D.C., aimed at enhancing U.S.–Africa relations and advancing strategic dialogue to strengthen ties between the AU and the U.S. The mission, led by Commissioner Adeoye, hopes to lay the foundation for a constructive relationship with the Trump administration, focusing on shared priorities that will ensure Africa and America remain stronger, safer, and more prosperous.
