The Lesson from American Democrats for African Development

Having lived in four different U.S. states, I have observed a compelling case for how African nations might accelerate development: by adopting the economic philosophy often championed by American Democrats. Development requires a government that actively spends to build platforms for commerce; the notion that governments must shrink or disappear to foster progress is a fallacy. Africa does not need smaller governments; it needs fiscally responsible ones that recognize their role in catalyzing economic growth.

Consider the United States Postal Service (USPS). It has not turned a “real” profit in two decades, yet it remains indispensable because it bridges the gap between urban and rural America, facilitating vital trade. If the USPS were forced to operate strictly as a profit center, that connectivity would shatter. How many African postal services have been shuttered due to narrow “loss” accounting, ignoring the broader reality that the economic activity they enable generates significant tax revenue elsewhere?

Similarly, look at rail transport. International funding organizations have frequently demanded that African nations dismantle public railways deemed unprofitable before offering support (yes, privatize!). In contrast, the U.S. continues to subsidize Amtrak, which has not been profitable since 1972, because it understands that supply chains and logistics are the bedrock of any economy. Any deficit incurred by the train system is recouped through the tax receipts generated by the economic activity it sustains. That is where comprehensive and integrated accounting works, and not disparate accounting system that does not see the big picture.

This governing philosophy even extends to national showcases and intellectual infrastructure. In reviewing the venues for the World Cup 2026, I found that at least 7 of the 11 host stadiums are located in Democratic-led cities, with 3 independent jurisdictions. This is a consistent pattern: Democratic administrations are typically more willing to tax citizens and corporations to fund public infrastructure, and as a result, they possess superior facilities. Furthermore, over 80% of America’s top 100 ranked universities are located within Democratic-governed cities.

Ultimately, these trends demonstrate a fundamental truth: a nation’s governing philosophy is the primary engine of its development. Africa must look past the illusion of minimalist governance and embrace a model that prioritizes strategic public investment as the foundation for long-term prosperity.

10 worst states to live in for 2026, per CNBC:

1. Tennessee

2. Texas

3. Indiana

4. Louisiana

5. Georgia

6. Utah

7. Missouri

8. Alabama

9. Oklahoma

   

10.Arkansas

Below are the 11 U.S. host stadiums for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, along with the host city, the current mayor, and the mayor’s political affiliation.

Political Breakdown

• Democratic: 8
  • Atlanta
  • Boston
  • Houston
  • Kansas City
  • Los Angeles (Inglewood)
  • Philadelphia
  • Santa Clara (San Francisco Bay Area)
  • Seattle
• Independent / Officially Nonpartisan: 3
  • Arlington (Dallas)
  • Miami Gardens
  • East Rutherford
• Republican: 0

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