2015 Tutu Fellow Ronald Osumba has co-authored a report for the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, analyzing Africa’s engagement with the Trump administration and the broader shifts in US-Africa relations. 

Titled Africa First: A New Vision for Africa’s Growth and U.S. Engagement, the 38-page report examines the impact of Trump's “America First” foreign policy on trade, aid, and geopolitics, while outlining strategies for Africa to strengthen its global position. The analysis, co-authored with Mark Scott, an advisor at the institute, highlights challenges faced by African nations, including uncertainties around US trade policies, the withdrawal from international agreements, and funding risks for key development sectors such as health and climate.

It also explores growing US-China competition in Africa and its implications for the continent’s economic and diplomatic landscape. The report advocates for an “Africa First” approach, emphasizing self-reliance, regional integration, and strategic partnerships. It identifies five key areas for Africa’s development:

• Prioritizing intra-African trade by fully implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
• Modernizing trade networks through investments in digital infrastructure and logistics.
• Securing data sovereignty by strengthening Africa’s digital economy.
• Building local value chains to move beyond raw-material exports and drive industrialization.
• Investing in workforce development to equip Africa’s youth with skills in AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.

The report states that while the US has an opportunity to support Africa’s self-reliance, the responsibility lies with African leaders to ensure that partnerships align with Africa’s long-term vision for progress, stability, and economic resilience. By harnessing its youthful population and natural resources, Africa can strengthen its global influence and reshape its developmental trajectory on its own terms.

Ronald brings extensive experience in public sector innovation, policy advisory, and technology-driven governance. He is the Founder and CEO of iGov Africa, an innovation house that collaborates with governments, private sector entities, and development agencies to leverage technology for public good.

Previously, Ronald served as Head of Public Sector at Oracle Corporation, Kenya, and as Senior Manager for Government Relations and Public Sector Sales at Safaricom Limited, where he led teams influencing policy decisions at the national and county levels. As Chairman of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, he oversaw the disbursement of funds and technical support to over 7,500 SMEs, driving a 40% growth in fund value.

A Tutu Fellow, Aspen Institute graduate, and Crans Montana Leader of Tomorrow, Ronald has played key leadership roles in economic development, governance, and entrepreneurship.

Header image: Screengrab from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change of the report Africa First: A New Vision for Africa’s Growth and U.S. Engagement