January 20th, 2025 will go down in history as the day the United States, under President Donald Trump, began to reassert its global influence, controversially so. As the saying goes, “When America sneezes, the world catches a cold.” Trump’s inauguration speech signaled a shift toward policies that prioritize American interests, often at the expense of international cooperation. Among Trump’s key promises, many of which have since materialized, were plans to impose tariffs on foreign goods, legally recognize only two genders (male and female), and clamp down on illegal immigration. However, it is his climate policies that have sparked the most global concern.
Trump’s rollback of greenhouse gas regulations and his withdrawal from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord mark a clear departure from aggressive climate action. While designed to benefit domestic industries, these actions have profound implications, especially for vulnerable regions like Africa’s urban slums.
According to the African Population and Health Research Centre, slums in Africa are densely populated and suffer from inadequate housing, poor infrastructure, and limited access to clean water. Climate change intensifies these issues through harsher heatwaves and unpredictable rainfall. International climate funding is critical in addressing these challenges by supporting resilience-building, sustainable urban planning, and infrastructure development.
Trump’s reduced financial support to global climate initiatives threatens to create serious funding gaps. In Africa, this could be seen as a death sentence, but it might also serve as a turning point for the continent to rethink its dependence on Western aid.
The criticism from African leaders highlights the continent’s reliance on Western climate funding. While justified, these concerns also point to a deeper issue: the need for self-reliance. Rather than mourning lost aid, African nations must see this as an opportunity to forge sustainable, homegrown solutions.
Three Paths to African Climate Resilience
Strengthen Regional Collaboration
African nations must enhance cooperation through bodies like the African Union, EAC, SADC, and COMESA. By pooling resources and knowledge, these regional blocs can lead adaptation strategies tailored to Africa’s realities—especially ensuring slums are included in national development plans.
Diversify Partnerships
With U.S. contributions shrinking, African countries should engage new partners—European, Asian, and global climate-focused organizations. Attracting private investment in green infrastructure and renewable energy can also help fill the funding void and foster long-term resilience.
Empower Local Communities
Communities must be at the heart of adaptation strategies. Investment in education, vocational training, and grassroots initiatives can enable slum residents to lead sustainable practices. Strong governance and accountability are also essential to ensure effective use of resources.
Looking Ahead: Africa’s Sustainable Future
External support is still important, but Africa’s future depends on its ability to mobilize internal strengths. Through innovation, regional unity, and community empowerment, the continent can craft a climate strategy that is less dependent on foreign aid and more reflective of its own needs and aspirations.
