Biden Makes Historic Last-Minute Trip to Angola, Aiming for Economic and Security Gains in Africa
In a potentially game-changing move just weeks before leaving office, President Joe Biden will embark on his first and final official visit to Africa on Monday, December 2nd. Landing in Luanda, Angola, the president’s 72-hour visit is a belated follow-up to the 2022 US-Africa summit and signals a renewed focus on the continent’s strategic importance, especially in the face of growing competition from global powers like China and Russia.
Biden’s trip, delayed for two years, comes as the United States grapples with a changing global landscape. Donald Trump’s recent re-election as president underscores the need to solidify partnerships and counterbalance evolving geopolitical alliances. Angola, with its significant trade surplus in US dollars and vast natural resources, emerges as a key player in this equation.
"Joe Biden intends to put forward a win-win partnership to counter the influence of emerging countries in Africa and other powers," the statement from the White House reads.
Beyond economics, Biden’s visit seeks to address a range of critical issues.
Boosting Economic Ties and Championsing American Firms
The trip’s primary objective is to strengthen economic partnerships that will benefit both American businesses and workers. A flagship project of the G7’s Global Infrastructure and Investment Partnership, a new 800km railway connecting Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia, is a testament to this commitment.
Supporting Democracy and Good Governance
Democracy and civil liberties remain core pillars of US foreign policy. Biden aims "to strengthen democracy and civil dialogue in Angola through the freedom of the press and the independence of justice, without forgetting the fight against corruption and burning money."
Tackling Climate Change and Investing in a Sustainable Future
Recognizing the global climate crisis, Biden will pledge $900 million over five years to develop more than 500MW of solar energy in Angola. These efforts highlight the US’s commitment to supporting clean energy initiatives and mitigating the effects of climate change in Africa.
Strengthening Security Through Multifaceted Cooperation
The US seeks to bolster security in Angola and across the African continent. This will involve cooperation in maritime security, space, and cyber defense. Angola’s participation in the US-led Atlantic Cooperation, focused on strengthening maritime security and promoting a "blue economy," further underscores the strategic importance of this relationship.
A Race for Resources: The Endgame in Africa
Angola’s abundant natural resources, including diamonds, gold, copper, uranium, and other minerals essential for the energy transition, make it a prized asset in the global resource game.
Biden’s trip signals the start of a crucial new chapter in US-Africa relations and reflects a strategic imperative to strengthen alliances and secure American interests on a continent increasingly contested by international powers.
"It is a strategic trip on the economic and security level for the benefit, not only of the United States, but also of Angola and its sub-regional allies," the White House statement concludes, highlighting the importance of forging mutually beneficial partnerships.
## biden’s Angola Gamble: A New Chapter for US-Africa Relations?
**World Today News Exclusive interview with Dr.Abena Osei-Asare, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for African Studies, Harvard University**
President Biden’s last-minute trip to Angola, with its focus on economic and security cooperation, has sparked much debate. Is this a genuine attempt to rebuild US influence in Africa, or too little, too late?
**World Today News:** Dr. Osei-Asare,thank you for joining us. President Biden’s visit to Angola, coming so close to the end of his term, is indeed surprising. What do you make of the timing and choice of Angola as the destination?
**Dr. Osei-Asare:** Its certainly unconventional. While the US-Africa summit last year showed some renewed interest, a presidential trip so late in the game feels reactive, almost rushed. Angola, however, is a symbolic choice. It’s a major oil producer facing monumental developmental challenges.This trip allows Biden to address both economic and security concerns, showcasing a pragmatic approach.
**World Today News:** What are the key economic stakes for the US in this visit?
**Dr. Osei-Asare:** Angola’s vast oil reserves are a major draw for US investment. They need infrastructure development, and American companies are well-positioned to capitalize on this. However, it’s not just about oil. The US aims to diversify its trade Partnerships in Africa and counters Chinese influence, which has grown significantly in recent years.
**World Today News:** Some critics argue this visit is primarily about countering China’s influence in Africa. How accurate is this assessment?
**Dr. Osei-Asare:** both economic and geopolitical factors are at play. China’s
Belt and Road Initiative has made important inroads across Africa, raising concerns in Washington about its long-term strategies. However, portraying this solely as a competitive move against china is simplistic.The US has its own interests, and Africa’s dynamism demands engagement, but on terms that benefit both sides.
**World Today News:** Angola is also grappling with security challenges, especially with the rise of Islamist militants in neighboring countries. How will this factor into Biden’s discussions?
**Dr.Osei-Asare:** Regional security cooperation is crucial. Angola plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the region, and the US is likely to offer support in combating extremist threats. This could involve military assistance, intelligence sharing, or capacity building.
**World Today News:** Looking beyond this visit, what are the long-term implications for US-Africa relations?
**Dr. Osei-Asare:** This visit can be a significant turning point, but only if it translates into sustained commitment. The US needs a clear, long-term strategy for Africa, one that prioritizes genuine partnership, not just transactional interests. This includes supporting democratic institutions,fostering entrepreneurship,and addressing critical issues like climate change.
**World Today news:** Dr. Osei-Asare, your insights are invaluable.Thank you for shedding light on this critical moment in US-Africa relations.
