On April 4, 2025, Ambassador Hunt addressed the Foreign Service Academy of Sierra Leone, discussing the evolving relationship between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa. He opened by noting the early stage of the Trump-Vance Administration, stating, "the contours of its foreign policy are still very much evolving." He emphasized that these policies are being shaped as the administration continues to finalize its strategies.
Ambassador Hunt highlighted President Trump's commitment to an "America First" foreign policy. He stated, "President Trump signed an Executive Order instructing the Department of State to pursue an 'America First' foreign policy," indicating a focus on national and economic security interests. Secretary of State Rubio supports this direction, ensuring every policy and spending decision strengthens the United States.
The ambassador noted the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency as part of an initiative to improve the use of resources. He emphasized, "President Trump has been crystal clear that in the face of mounting budget deficits, he expects every federal department and every federal employee to do more to limit new requests for financial resources."
Regarding U.S. involvement in Africa, Ambassador Hunt pointed to a "radical rethinking" of foreign assistance, aiming to shift from dependency to partnerships centered on mutual interests. He declared that the Trump-Vance Administration is striving for a relationship between the U.S. and Africa as "sovereign entities independently pursuing their national interests."
Hunt outlined three changes in foreign assistance: alignment with national interests, reducing friction with partners, and emphasizing efficiency. He cited the restructuring of USAID's operations in Sierra Leone as an example of these changes, stating, "we are scaling back USAID activities to 8 operating mechanisms."
Ambassador Hunt stressed the future goal of focusing on trade and investment over assistance. He mentioned the potential for U.S. engagement in Africa, emphasizing the need for private sector growth. "The largest untapped market for U.S. trade and investment is sub-Saharan Africa," Hunt explained.
Addressing energy needs, he asserted the importance of both traditional and renewable energy sources, expressing commitment to "ensure that energy access in Sierra Leone and Africa is widespread and affordable."
Hunt also discussed trade practices, advocating for reciprocal policies. He stated, "Our trade policy with African countries...will be based on reciprocity."
Issues of migration were also highlighted. Hunt noted high rates of visa misuse in Sierra Leone and warned against potential changes in visa services if these rates continue.
The ambassador also emphasized the U.S. commitment to peace and security in Africa. "Enhanced efforts to resolve...conflicts through both regional and international bodies are urgently required," he said, highlighting ongoing engagement in regions like Somalia and the Sahel.
Summing up the changing dynamics, Hunt acknowledged, "The United States’ relationship with Africa is in a period of immense change," anticipating a shift that enhances development and prosperity.
The remarks underscore a transitional period in U.S.-Africa relations under the current administration, with a focus on efficiency, mutual interests, and strategic engagement. Ambassador Hunt's address reflects efforts to reshape foreign policy practices consistent with the Trump-Vance Administration's principles.