Deborah Akinyosoye
The African Union Commission has responded to the United States’ newly expanded travel ban with a call for a more balanced, evidence-based approach.
AU, in a statement on Thursday, called on the U.S. administration to engage with affected countries through constructive dialogue rather than unilateral restrictions.
The new ban, signed by President Donald Trump earlier this week, blocks nearly all travel to the U.S. by nationals of 12 countries, including six in Africa: Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, and Somalia. The ban also targets Afghanistan, Myanmar, Haiti, Iran, Sudan, and Yemen.
In addition, a partial ban was imposed on travellers from seven other nations: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, allowing only certain types of visas, such as for temporary work.
Trump defended the decision in a video posted on X, saying that “the recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted. We don’t want them.”
In response to this ban, AU said it acknowledged “the sovereign right of all nations to protect their borders and ensure the security of their citizens” but noted that such actions should be exercised in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa.
“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. Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation,” the commission stated.
“The African Union Commission respectfully calls upon the U.S. Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned.”
The Commission also appeals for transparent communication and, where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have informed this decision.
It added that it stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States.