Yassin K. Fawaz: Massad Boulos could revolutionise Africa-US relations

In the evolving landscape of global diplomacy, one of the most important, and often overlooked, assets is the ability to understand and connect with the regions that are shaping the future of the world. For the US, Africa is one of the most significant, yet underutilised, partners in this endeavour. The recent appointment of Massad Boulos as senior advisor for Africa is a significant step in bridging that gap, as it brings not only expertise but a personal, authentic connection to the continent.

Massad Boulos’ appointment to this important role is not just a political manoeuvre; it reflects the growing recognition of Africa’s strategic importance in US foreign policy. What makes this appointment especially notable is Boulos’ unique relationship with Africa, a relationship built on deep personal connections rather than professional expertise alone. Unlike many who approach African diplomacy from the outside, Boulos and his family are “true Africans” in a sense that few others in US politics can claim.

Notably, Boulos will retain his role as senior advisor to the president on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs while taking on this new role overseeing African affairs.

This dual responsibility highlights the inter-connectedness of the two regions and reflects Boulos’ unique ability to bridge these worlds. With both portfolios under his guidance, Boulos is in a position to craft a more integrated strategy that addresses the complexities of the Middle East and Africa, building synergies that are crucial for US foreign policy in both regions.

 

A family rooted in Africa

The Boulos family’s ties to Africa are not superficial; they are grounded in real-life experiences. Massad Boulos, through his extensive time spent living in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, has immersed himself in the cultural and social fabric of the continent. What sets the Boulos family apart is not just their residence in Africa but their authentic integration into its societies. They are part of the communities they engage with, and this connection adds significant weight to their role in African diplomacy.

It is not just Massad who has embraced this deep cultural bond, his children, too, have been raised with an intimate understanding of African life. All of them speak local Nigerian dialects, something that goes beyond surface-level knowledge. This kind of cultural fluency is rare, especially among those who have moved between continents. For the Boulos family, Africa is home, and it shows in their interactions, their understanding of local issues, and their ability to communicate in ways that are not just political but personal.

 

 

This level of cultural integration is particularly significant in a world where many foreign policymakers come from positions of privilege, often disconnected from the communities they aim to serve. Massad Boulos’ experiences in Africa allow him to engage in a way that transcends the typical “outsider” perspective. This lived experience will be invaluable in his role, as it ensures that his approach to African diplomacy is grounded in respect and authenticity, not simply in geopolitical strategy.

Massad Boulos’ decision to retain his position as senior advisor on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs is a key factor in his approach to diplomacy. This dual role reflects the interconnected nature of the Middle East and Africa in US foreign policy. Boulos’ ability to navigate both regions gives him a unique perspective on their shared geopolitical concerns. His work in the Middle East, especially with regard to Arab affairs, has made him a key player in shaping US policies in that region, and his deep understanding of both the Arab world and Africa will be invaluable as he seeks to foster stronger, more strategic relationships with African nations.

Moreover, Massad’s son, Michael Boulos, who is married to Tiffany Trump, also has Nigerian heritage, and the entire Boulos family holds Nigerian citizenship. This connection to the African continent is not just symbolic; it is rooted in lived experience, with Massad’s family having a deep understanding of Nigerian society and culture. This personal connection strengthens Massad’s ability to relate to African leaders, navigate sensitive issues, and advocate policies that respect the continent’s sovereignty.

 

Personal experience

As someone who is bi-racial and the son of an African-American Christian mother and an Arab-American Shia Muslim father, if anyone understands the nuances of the Africa and Arab worlds, it is me. Having supported the president’s agenda since 2016, I have always believed in his approach of prioritising meaningful, results-driven diplomacy. This approach focuses on forging strong, mutually beneficial relationships with global partners, including those in Africa. I have seen firsthand how the president’s bold, unconventional strategies can yield real change and open doors for deeper cooperation. From this perspective, I can confidently say that Massad’s unique background, spanning the Middle East and Africa, makes him particularly well-suited to continue advancing these principles. His deep personal connection to the African continent and his understanding of both regions allow him to uniquely bridge gaps and push forward a more holistic, inclusive approach to diplomacy.

Furthermore, as someone with a personal connection to the Boulos family, I can attest to Massad’s capacity and commitment. He is more than capable of handling the responsibilities of this role. His background, experiences, and understanding of both regions make him an invaluable asset in US diplomacy, particularly in fostering relationships with Africa.

 

“By working with local leaders and understanding their struggles, Massad will be able to craft policies that reflect the aspirations of Africa’s people rather than just the geopolitical interests of external powers.”

 

While Africa is often seen as a region with untapped potential, its geopolitical and economic significance has been growing steadily. From its natural resources to its growing young population, Africa is poised to become a key player on the global stage. For the US, fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships with African nations is crucial for ensuring stability, promoting trade and addressing global challenges such as climate change, health crises and regional conflicts.

Massad Boulos’ role in shaping US policy toward Africa will be pivotal. Having lived in Africa, Boulos brings a much-needed perspective to US foreign policy. He understands the complexities of the continent, from its diverse cultures to its intricate political landscapes. His deep roots in Africa make him particularly well-suited to advocate for policies that respect Africa’s sovereignty and address its unique challenges.

The US has a long history of involvement in Africa, but the continent’s diverse needs and aspirations often get lost in the broader context of international diplomacy. By having someone who genuinely understands the people and cultures of Africa in a position of influence, the US can create more effective policies that benefit both Africa and the US In addition, as Massad Boulos knows well, racism and cultural misunderstandings have often complicated relationships between Africa and Western powers. His personal history and family’s commitment to African society offer a rare opportunity to build stronger, more empathetic relationships.

 

A new approach

Massad Boulos’ appointment signals a shift in how the US may approach Africa in the years ahead. Traditionally, US policy towards Africa has been driven by foreign aid, military intervention and resource extraction. However, the future of US-Africa relations will require more than just transactional diplomacy. It will demand a more nuanced, respectful engagement that prioritises African voices and promotes sustainable partnerships based on shared values and long-term development.

 

 

With Massad Boulos in this advisory role, the US is signaling that it recognises the importance of authentic representation in diplomacy. The Boulos family’s deep ties to Africa mean that the US will have someone in the room who not only understands the political challenges Africa faces but also shares a cultural affinity that is rare in high-level diplomacy. For countries that have often felt the weight of Western influence and exploitation, this personal connection could make all the difference in forging more balanced, productive relationships.

Moreover, the Boulos family’s ability to speak multiple languages, including Nigerian local dialects, demonstrates a level of cultural competence that will facilitate meaningful conversations. This goes beyond merely being able to converse in a second language; it is about understanding nuances, context, and the subtle social dynamics that shape how diplomacy functions in different African nations.

In the world of high-stakes diplomacy, cultural understanding can sometimes be just as important as technical knowledge. The Boulos family’s unique background offers a powerful example of how cultural diplomacy can create stronger, more meaningful ties between nations. Massad Boulos’ work will likely focus on more than just trade agreements and political negotiations. His influence will help bridge divides between the US and African nations, ensuring that policies are not imposed from the outside, but instead co-created with a deep respect for African autonomy and cultural heritage.

For Massad, his work is not simply about advancing the US agenda; it is about ensuring that African countries are given a voice in shaping global policies. His understanding of African politics, coupled with his commitment to the continent’s development, positions him as a critical voice in American diplomacy. By working with local leaders and understanding their struggles, Massad will be able to craft policies that reflect the aspirations of Africa’s people rather than just the geopolitical interests of external powers.

Massad Boulos’ appointment as Senior Advisor for Africa is not just about filling a diplomatic position, it is about bringing a real, lived connection to African diplomacy. His family’s ties to the continent, and their cultural fluency, make him a rare and invaluable asset in shaping US foreign policy in Africa. As Africa’s importance on the global stage grows, having someone who is both personally and professionally committed to the continent’s well-being will be crucial in building lasting, positive relationships between Africa and the United States.

READ: Martin Jay: Le Pen’s exclusion from next election may prove disastrous

 

In an age where authenticity and cultural understanding are more important than ever, Massad Boulos represents a new model of diplomacy, one where the lines between political strategy and personal experience blur, allowing for deeper, more meaningful connections. His work will be a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy and the importance of understanding the world through the eyes of those we seek to engage.

 

The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Maghrebi.org. Yassin K Fawaz is an American business executive, publisher and security and terrorism expert.

If you wish to pitch an opinion piece please send your article to alisa.butterwick@maghrebi.org.