Trump's Bold First Moves: What His Policies Mean for Everyday Life

On his very first day as the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump quickly made headlines with a series of executive orders. On his very first day in office, he signed policies that will impact not only Americans but also people around the world, especially African communities. From ending birthright citizenship to mass deportation, Trump’s first actions are sparking major changes. Here’s a closer look at how his decisions will affect everyday life in the U.S. and beyond.

Ending Birthright Citizenship: A Major Shift for Immigrant Families

One of the biggest changes President Trump made was ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. In the past, any baby born on U.S. soil automatically became a U.S. citizen. Now, babies born to parents who are in the country illegally will not receive citizenship.

This change impacts not only American families with immigrant backgrounds but could also affect many African families. Thousands of African immigrants live in the U.S., and many have children who were born in the country. With this policy, those children will no longer automatically have U.S. citizenship, creating uncertainty for families who thought their children would have the same legal protections as any other American child. For African immigrants, this decision is part of a broader trend that may make it more difficult for their children to have the same opportunities and rights that others do.

Pardons for January 6th Capitol Rioters:

President Trump also pardoned about 1,500 individuals arrested during the January 6th Capitol riot, a move that has stirred debate across the U.S. While this affects American citizens directly, it also impacts how the U.S. is viewed globally, including in African countries. Many Africans, who have followed the events closely, are concerned about the message this sends about the rule of law and accountability. The pardons seem to suggest that violence in the name of political beliefs could go unpunished, potentially influencing political movements in other countries, including African countries, where democratic processes are fragile in some regions.

Redefining Gender:

Trump’s policy declaring that the U.S. government will officially recognise only two genders male and female marks a sharp departure from more inclusive policies. This decision has raised alarms, particularly among LGBTQ+ communities both in the U.S. and abroad.

For LGBTQ+ activists in Africa, Trump’s gender policy could further complicate their efforts to create more inclusive environments for gender-diverse people. In many African nations, the LGBTQ+ community already faces significant obstacles, including legal discrimination, violence, and societal stigma. The recognition of only two genders by a world superpower could reinforce negative stereotypes and make it even harder for activists to fight for basic rights and protections for gender-diverse individuals.

Trump’s decision to recognize only two genders reflects a broader cultural and political debate about how societies should define and treat gender. For some, it’s a return to traditional values that they believe should be upheld. For others, it’s a denial of the rich diversity of human experiences and identities. In the global context, especially in African countries where gender norms are often strict, this policy will be seen as either a reinforcement of conservative views or a challenge to the rights of those who don’t fit into traditional gender categories.

In Africa, where many countries still have laws that discriminate against LGBTQ+ people, Trump’s policy could be seen as a reinforcement of traditional views. It could also embolden anti-LGBTQ+ groups, making it more difficult for activists in African countries to push for change. For African individuals who are part of the LGBTQ+ community, this policy is a setback in the fight for acceptance and legal rights, as many are already living in environments that criminalize their identity.

TikTok Delay:

For TikTok users around the world, including those in Africa, Trump’s decision to delay the ban on the Chinese-owned app for 75 days offers some relief. TikTok has become an important platform for many young people to showcase their talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The delay gives content creators more time to continue building their audiences and monetising their work.

However, the threat of an eventual ban is still looming, and this uncertainty is troubling for many creators. TikTok has provided a platform for users to reach global audiences, share their cultures, and start businesses. The longer the app remains accessible, the more opportunity there is for users to leverage it for financial, personal and professional growth.

Pulling Out of Global Agreements: Impact on African Health and Climate

Trump’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement affects global cooperation on key issues. For Africans, this is especially concerning. The WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health crises, such as the ongoing battle against diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and the Ebola outbreaks. Trump’s exit from the organization could weaken global health responses, making it harder for African countries to access the support they need during health emergencies.

Similarly, the U.S. pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement has direct consequences for Africa, a continent that is particularly vulnerable to climate change. Rising temperatures, droughts, and floods are already threatening food and water security across the region. Without the U.S. as a committed partner in fighting climate change, African nations may face greater challenges in addressing these urgent issues.

Mass Deportation and Immigration Crackdowns: A Threat to African Immigrants

Trump’s announcement of a policy focused on mass deportations of illegal immigrants, with a particular focus on African nations, has sparked fear in African communities both in the U.S. and back home. Countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which have large populations of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., could be greatly affected. This policy aims to deport millions of individuals living in the U.S. without legal documentation, and for many African families, it means uncertainty and fear of separation.

For Africans living in the U.S., this crackdown could mean losing jobs, homes, and even families. The policy sends a message that people from certain countries are more likely to be targeted for deportation, even if they’ve lived in the U.S. for years. The impact on African communities is not just emotional but also social, as families may be torn apart, and established lives in the U.S. could be disrupted.

The suspension of U.S. foreign

The 90 day suspension of US foreign aid to Africa presents both challenges and opportunities for the continent. While it may initially strain economies that rely on external support, it could also encourage African countries to become more self-sufficient and resourceful. By focusing on strengthening their own institutions and systems, African nations can reduce their dependence on foreign aid and foster sustainable growth. This moment could act as a wake-up call for leaders to prioritise long-term stability and growth over short-term fixes, challenging the influence of corrupt political figures who manipulate aid for personal gain. Ultimately, it’s an opportunity for African nations to harness their vast natural resources, improve governance, and take ownership of their future rather than relying on handouts.