The International Policy Digest posted on 30 July 2019 a commentary titled "More Than Just Investment: Why America Was Once So Popular in Africa" by Nick J. Danby.
The author concluded that while countering Chinese and Russian influence in Africa remains a top priority for the U.S., the most prudent way to win over African leaders and citizens is by demonstrating that American officials truly care about Africa's well-being. He cited as evidence the support the George W. Bush administration gave to combating HIV/AIDS with the PEPFAR program and the positive response it received from Africans.