According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, Massad Boulos, who also serves as Senior Advisor to the President on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs, has been appointed as Senior Advisor for Africa.
The statement further revealed that Senior Advisor Boulos, alongside Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Corina Sanders, will embark on a diplomatic mission to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda, beginning April 3, 2025.
“During the trip, Senior Advisor Boulos and the team will engage with Heads of State and business leaders to promote durable peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and to encourage U.S. private sector investment in the region,” the statement noted.
Boulos, a Lebanese businessman, began his professional journey in Nigeria, where he advanced to leadership positions at SCOA and Boulos Enterprises.
“Massad is a dealmaker and an unwavering supporter of PEACE in the Middle East. He will be a strong advocate for the United States, and its interests,” said Trump.
What does Trump’s Africa advisor have to offer?
Previous U.S. presidents have appointed advisors or special envoys for Africa to guide policy decisions on the continent, focusing on key issues such as trade, security, counterterrorism, human rights, and diplomacy.
President Trump’s recent appointment of a new Africa advisor, along with the planned visit to four African countries, suggests a renewed effort to engage with the continent.
This appointment signals a strategic push to counter the growing influence of China and Russia in Africa, expand economic opportunities for American businesses, and address ongoing security concerns.
The advisor’s role and influence is mostly shaped by their mandate and how actively the administration engages with African leaders on issues of mutual interest, such as trade, security, and diplomacy.
One of the key destinations for the advisor’s visit is the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a nation ravaged by long-standing conflict.
The country’s vital mineral resources, which are crucial for the global supply chain, have been at stake amid the ongoing struggle with M23 rebels.
Amnesty International recently called on the U.S. to take immediate action in response to the DRC conflict, particularly regarding Rwanda’s involvement and the human rights implications of U.S. companies sourcing minerals from conflict-affected areas.
While the U.S. has the potential to influence the course of the crisis, it faces significant challenges due to the complex regional dynamics.
These include Rwanda’s role, the DRC’s internal issues, and the involvement of various armed groups, all of which make the situation difficult to resolve.
Nonetheless, through diplomatic pressure, targeted sanctions, and humanitarian support, the U.S. could play a key role in addressing the conflict and its broader implications.
