President Joe Biden is finally making his long-awaited trip to Africa, with a planned visit to Germany and Angola in mid-October. The White House announced the visit on Tuesday, fulfilling a promise Biden made during a summit of African leaders in Washington in late 2022.
Biden’s visit is seen as a crucial step in strengthening US ties with the continent. The administration has been actively working to solidify its relationships with African nations, especially in the face of growing Chinese influence. While several Cabinet members and Vice President Kamala Harris, along with First Lady Jill Biden, visited African nations throughout 2023, President Biden’s trip marks the first visit by a US president to sub-Saharan Africa since 2015.
Biden’s itinerary includes stops in Berlin and Luanda, Angola. In Berlin, he will meet with German leaders to reinforce alliances, express gratitude for Germany’s support of Ukraine in its defense against Russia, and acknowledge Germany’s contributions to the NATO alliance.
The main focus of Biden’s visit to Luanda, Angola, will be on enhancing collaboration with President João Lourenço. Discussions will center around economic partnerships and infrastructure projects, including a notable rail project that would connect Lobito, Angola, to the Indian Ocean.
Interestingly, in May, Biden had mentioned his desire to visit Africa after the November presidential election, stating, “I plan on going in February after I am reelected.” However, with his reelection campaign now concluded, his trip to Germany and Angola will serve as a final effort to bolster ties with the continent before the end of his term.
