Sarcouncil Journal of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences

Abstract: This review analyzes trade and economic engagement between the U.S. and Francophone Africa. The paper highlights barriers that have plagued trade relations between the U.S. and the Francophone region. However, with an abundance of critical minerals, which serve as the base for manufacturing technological parts and products, the region cannot be ignored. Apart from its mineral resources, there are potential investment opportunities in agriculture and digital technology. Francophone Africa attains another level of importance with the need for the U.S. to secure its supply sources for its most critical needs and explore additional avenues for supplying essential raw materials. The review found that for the U.S to remain a competitive partner in the region, it must maximize the advantages that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers. Policies and actions that support the full implementation of AfCFTA will not only give the U.S. access to a market of 1.7 billion people by 2030 but also reap the benefits of an integrated market where trade barriers have been significantly reduced or eliminated. The benefits to U.S. businesses with trade and investment interests in the Francophone Africa region and the continent are immense. Apart from AfCFTA support, the review found that the U.S. support for the financial policy reforms in the CFA Franc-dominated region will promote a more conducive environment for U.S.-Francophone Africa trade.