The African Union Commission has expressed strong concern over a new proclamation by U.S. President Donald Trump imposing travel restrictions on nationals from several countries, including multiple African states. The proclamation, citing national security risks, imposes full travel bans on 12 countries and partial restrictions on seven others.
Among those facing full bans are African nations Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo are among the seven countries facing partial restrictions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the African Union Commission acknowledged the sovereign right of the United States to safeguard its borders and citizens but urged Washington to adopt a “balanced, evidence-based” approach in enforcing such measures.
“While recognising the sovereign right of all nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens, the African Union Commission respectfully appeals to the United States to exercise this right in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa,” the statement read.
The Commission emphasized the risk such sweeping restrictions pose to long-standing diplomatic, educational, and economic ties between the U.S. and the African continent.
“The Commission remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades,” it added.
The AU is calling for the U.S. Administration to reconsider its approach by initiating dialogue with the affected countries and employing transparent, consultative processes to resolve any underlying concerns.
“The Commission stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States,” the AU concluded.
The travel ban, an expansion of earlier restrictions imposed under the Trump administration, has triggered global criticism for what many see as discriminatory policy decisions cloaked in national security justifications.
The affected African countries are yet to issue formal responses, but diplomatic sources suggest that several governments are preparing official protests and seeking clarification from Washington.
