Biden’s Angola visit underscores Africa’s growing global importance

President Joe Biden’s upcoming visit to Angola, the first by a sitting U.S. president to an African country since 2015, highlights the continent’s increasing significance in global geopolitics.

The trip, scheduled for October 13-15, comes as various world powers vie for influence in Africa, attracted by its strategic importance and mineral wealth. Angola, historically closer to Russia and China, has been pivoting towards the West under President João Lourenço. This shift is partly driven by the global race for “critical minerals” essential for green technologies.

The U.S. and the European Union are focusing on projects like the Lobito Corridor to secure mineral supplies from Angola’s neighbors, competing with China’s established presence.

Biden’s visit also aims to counterbalance the growing influence of Russia and China in Africa, especially in light of recent global conflicts. However, some experts caution against viewing U.S.-Angola relations solely through the lens of great power competition.

Critics note that the U.S. approach has not significantly addressed human rights concerns in Angola. As the 2024 U.S. election approaches, the future direction of U.S.-Africa policy remains uncertain.

For Angola and other African nations, the goal is to maximize benefits from increased global interest without aligning exclusively with any single power. The visit underscores the strategic importance of Angola’s location and resources in the changing global landscape.