President Donald Trump has delayed the U.S.-Africa summit originally planned for next month during the UN General Assembly, citing internal White House constraints and global crises that have consumed the administration’s bandwidth. Sources told Africa Report that the summit, once seen as a key opportunity to strengthen economic ties with African nations, will likely be pushed to spring 2026 and relocated from New York to another venue.

Staff Shortages and Shifting Priorities

According to diplomatic sources, the delay stems from an overburdened administration grappling with multiple foreign policy crises. The small team handling African affairs has been stretched thin managing Sudan and the Central African Republic, while broader attention remains focused on Israel’s war in Gaza and Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine.

Former National Security Council Africa director Dave Ver Monte said the postponement sends a “damaging signal” about the White House's commitment to Africa but acknowledged it was the right decision given the lack of preparedness. “Better to delay than to hold a rushed and under-resourced summit,” he told Africa Report.

Legislative Conflict and Diplomatic Fallout

The cancellation, if permanent, could put Trump at odds with U.S. law. Congress passed legislation in December 2022 mandating that the U.S. host a summit with African leaders every two years. The last summit took place in July 2023, when Trump met with leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, and Mauritania.

While no official new date has been confirmed, officials suggested that the summit might be rescheduled for early 2026. Critics argue the delay undermines U.S. credibility at a time when China and Russia are expanding their influence across Africa.