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In a recent interview with The African Report, Ms Frazer, a former assistant secretary of state under President George W. Bush, shed light on the US decision to suspend Uganda from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Contrary to expectations, she revealed that the decision was rooted in concerns over anti-gay legislation and human rights issues, rather than trade.
Highlighting the misuse of AGOA as a punitive measure, she voiced her opinion on the need to separate trade and development from unrelated matters.
Chinese influence on the rise
The interview with Ms Frazer took place amidst growing Chinese influence on the African continent, causing alarm among former US assistant secretaries of state for US-Africa relations.
The concerns were further compounded by recent US sanctions on five senior Ugandan officials, including Speaker Anita Among, over allegations of corruption and human rights abuses.
These actions were preceded by similar measures taken by Britain in May, indicating a broader international response to the situation.
Controversy surrounds Uganda’s senior officials
In response to the sanctions, Speaker Anita Among maintained that they were politically motivated due to her opposition to gay rights issues in Uganda.
She specifically referenced the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act in May 2023, which imposed severe penalties, including the death penalty, for certain actions by gay individuals.
The passage of this law led to a significant reduction in donor support from the West, affecting various programs, such as those combating malaria and HIV/AIDS.
As China continues to deepen its roots in Africa, the US finds itself in a near-panic state, particularly with Russia’s growing interest in the region.
Recent events, such as Russia deploying troops to a Niger airbase where American soldiers are stationed and forging stronger ties with Uganda, have raised concern.
This shifting landscape calls for the US to work harder in positioning itself as the preferred partner for African nations, navigating the challenges posed by China’s influence and emerging international interests.
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