On Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D spoke with longtime organizer and Pan-Africanist Netfa Freeman about reports that the Trump administration pressured Zambia to exchange mineral rights for continued U.S. health aid, including support for HIV and AIDS programs.
Freeman, who works with the Black Alliance for Peace and WPFW in Washington, D.C., said the controversy reflects a broader U.S. policy shift toward Africa. Rather than presenting foreign aid as humanitarian, he argued, Washington is becoming more openly transactional, tying assistance to access to strategic minerals such as copper, cobalt and coltan.
Davey D asked Freeman to give listeners a “Zambia 101,” noting that many people may not understand the country’s history or importance. Freeman explained that Zambia, formerly Northern Rhodesia, gained independence in 1964 after a struggle against British colonial rule. He emphasized that Africa’s modern borders were created by European powers and that many African countries remain trapped in neocolonial economic relationships.
Freeman pointed to Zambia’s copper reserves as central to the current conflict. Copper, he said, is increasingly important for electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, data centers and military technology. That makes Zambia a key target in the global race for resources.
The conversation also explored whether Trump represents a break from previous administrations. Freeman argued that Trump is building on groundwork laid by Obama and Biden, especially through AFRICOM and the expansion of U.S. military influence across Africa. What is different, he said, is that Trump’s approach is more blatant.
Davey D and Freeman also discussed China, Russia, Israel, Arab states, Libya, Palestine and the need for deeper political education. Freeman warned against broad stereotypes and urged listeners to distinguish between ruling classes and ordinary people.
He closed by encouraging listeners to connect with African Liberation Day efforts, study revolutionary movements on the continent and support organizations like Black Alliance for Peace.