The administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering shutting down nearly 30 American embassies and consulates around the world, with several located in Africa.
This move, according to a CNN report citing an internal U.S. State Department document, forms part of a drastic plan to reduce America’s global diplomatic footprint.
Countries in Africa that may be affected include the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Lesotho, and South Sudan. There are also suggestions that a U.S. consulate in South Africa could be among those slated for closure.
The leaked document reportedly proposes closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. Embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, and several African nations are listed, along with consulates in France, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UK, South Africa, and South Korea.
The broader aim of the proposal appears to align with a cost-cutting initiative championed by the Department of Government Efficiency, allegedly backed by tech billionaire Elon Musk. The idea is to reduce the size and budget of federal agencies, including the State Department.
The document also recommends scaling down U.S. operations in conflict zones like Somalia and Iraq—areas crucial to America’s fight against terrorism.
While the proposal remains unconfirmed, there has been no official word from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on the leaked plans.
If implemented, the move could significantly alter America’s diplomatic relationships, especially across Africa.
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