US President Joe Biden is set to make a historic visit to Angola, marking the first time a sitting US president has traveled to sub-Saharan Africa since Barack Obama in 2015. This visit is significant as it comes after Biden's earlier plans were postponed due to global events, including the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The anticipated trip is likely to occur after the UN General Assembly in September, ahead of the upcoming US presidential election on November 5. Biden's administration has faced scrutiny for the lack of visits to Africa, especially after hosting the US-Africa leaders' summit in December 2022.
Biden's commitment to strengthening ties with African democracies is underscored by his previous meeting with Angolan President Joao Lourenco at the White House. This visit is part of a broader strategy to counter China's growing influence in Africa, particularly in resource-rich nations.
As Biden prepares for this landmark visit, the political landscape in the US remains tense, with polls indicating a close race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The visit also highlights the US's aim to enhance its partnership with Africa amidst increasing Chinese investments in the region.
