Trump plans Africa visit amid reports of U.S. diplomatic and aid cuts to the continent.

President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that he would likely make his first official trip to Africa before the end of his term, amidst reports indicating his administration's intention to scale back its engagement on the continent. While speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump was asked whether he planned to visit Africa. He responded, “Sure. I would do that. I would do that, absolutely.”

He made these remarks prior to his departure for a rally in Michigan, marking his first 100 days in office.

This statement comes as reports emerge about the Trump administration's proposed plans to reduce its diplomatic and development presence in Africa. The proposed changes include the closure of embassies in Eritrea, Gambia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, and the Central African Republic, along with the shutdown of consulates in Cameroon and South Africa.

Experts have noted that Trump’s recent trade tariffs signal the effective end of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a trade agreement designed to support African economic growth through preferential access to U.S. markets.

In January, the U.S. government froze USAID foreign aid for a period of 90 days. These funding cuts have had a substantial negative impact on health, education, and development programs across Sub-Saharan Africa, including initiatives related to HIV/AIDS treatment, malaria prevention, maternal health care, and agricultural support.