Why Trump Remains African Churches’ Favorite Political Leader
The 45th and now 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump, signed an executive order nearly two months ago, shortly after his inauguration, that suspended foreign aid. This decision significantly impacted USAID projects worldwide, particularly in Africa, where U.S. assistance has been critical in sectors like health and agriculture. The halt in funding has disrupted essential life-saving programs and left thousands unemployed.
Concerns over the fate of PEPFAR, a U.S. State Department initiative supporting thousands affected by HIV/AIDS, have caused anxiety across many African nations. However, despite these challenges, churches across Africa continue to view Trump as a God-fearing leader.
During his first term, Trump made headlines for mispronouncing Namibia as “Nambia” at the 2017 U.S.-Africa Summit in Washington, D.C., and showing limited interest in the continent’s history. He also made controversial remarks about Africa. Nevertheless, at the beginning of his second term, many African nations seem to have forgiven him. Some even believe Trump was a better choice than former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump’s popularity remains strong in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Zimbabwe due to his association with Christianity. While Harris was perceived as more engaged with African issues, many churches in the region were uneasy about her left-wing stance, particularly on LGBTQ rights and abortion. In contrast, Trump’s policies align with the evangelical and Pentecostal values upheld by many African Christians.
Religion expert Shingai Mapiye acknowledged concerns about Trump’s perceived links to white supremacy but noted that his policy positions resonate with African churches.
“The focus of churches on the continent has been on issues of morality, and the U.S. President has taken a strong stance on these matters,” Mapiye said. “U.S.-Africa relations are not only political and economic but also social, influencing communities through NGOs. By taking a clear stance on gender and abortion, President Trump has won the admiration of the church, despite the challenges posed by the aid freeze.”
While Trump faces criticism on social media for cutting USAID funding, African pastors continue to defend him.
“President Trump is doing what is best for his country,” said Zimbabwean cleric Tinashe Hungwe. “It is time for our governments to take responsibility for their people instead of blaming the U.S.”
### The Abortion Debate
Most African churches oppose abortion based on Christian doctrine, and many have supported Trump’s policies restricting funding for NGOs that provide contraception and abortion services.
“Many of the organizations complaining about aid cuts have been promoting sin by encouraging abortion and reducing our populations,” Hungwe added.
Trump’s administration won praise from religious leaders for defunding groups that offer such services in several African countries. In many African nations, abortion remains illegal except in cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is at risk.
### Gender, Morality, and Religious Freedom
Despite the involvement of Africans in the Democratic Party’s leadership—such as former President Barack Obama—many Christian groups in Africa remain opposed to LGBTQ rights.
Trump’s executive order recognizing only two genders—male and female—was well received by African clerics.
“This decision comes at the right time, especially when young people are being influenced by celebrities and foreign organizations,” said evangelical pastor Prince Marowero. “We see this as an answer to our prayers.”
The rejection of homosexuality remains a major issue for many African churches, which view it as contrary to both Scripture and traditional African values.
As of 2024, homosexuality was illegal in 30 of Africa’s 54 countries, while abortion laws had been relaxed in 20.
“President Trump has consistently upheld conservative Christian values,” Marowero added. “We hope this era will restore morality and social order, allowing American institutions in Africa to operate without pushing an immoral agenda.”
Religious leaders across Africa have closely followed Trump’s policies, public statements, and alliances since the election. They appreciate his defense of Christianity, commitment to religious freedom, and approach to global conflicts.
Trump has also made efforts to connect with African communities. While speaking at the New Spirit Revival Centre in Cleveland last year, he called Black churches “the conscience of our country,” a statement that resonated with many Africans.
Nigerian pastor Chris Oyakhilome, a prominent figure in the Pentecostal movement, suggested that those opposing Trump were hostile to Christianity. He even described Trump’s election as a sign of the end times.
Reverend Joseph John Hayab, a Nigerian Baptist pastor, hopes that Trump’s administration will continue to support religious freedom, promote family values, and aid counterterrorism efforts against groups like Boko Haram in Nigeria and al-Shabaab in Somalia.
“Many African churches look to Trump to champion religious freedom and protect Christians, especially in regions where they face persecution,” Hayab said.