Biden Visits Angola, Cape Verde On His Only Trip To Sub-Saharan Africa

Biden’s First Bilateral Trip to Africa Focuses on Angola

United States President Joe Biden landed in Luanda, Angola, on Monday for his first official bilateral trip to Africa. The three-day visit comes after a brief stop in Cape Verde and has sparked discussions about the United States’ evolving strategy on the continent.

“President Biden’s visit underscores the United States’ commitment to Africa’s growth and its critical role in the global economy,” read a statement from the White House.

However, analysts have noted Biden’s decision not to visit Nigeria, South Africa, or other nations often considered strategic partners in Africa.

Focus on $800 Million Railway Project

A central aspect of Biden’s trip is the announcement of an $800 million railway project in Angola’s Lobito Corridor. This corridor connects the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to Angola’s Lobito port, facilitating the transport of critical minerals like cobalt and copper.

The White House explained, “With the DRC being a leading producer of minerals essential for electric vehicle batteries, this project is critical for advancing clean energy technologies.”

The U.S. has contributed a $550 million loan to the project, supported by the African Development Bank and the Africa Finance Corporation. The European Union has also provided additional funding to upgrade existing rail networks.

Countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative

Biden’s visit is seen as part of a broader effort to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has heavily invested in African infrastructure.

The White House statement continued, “The railway spans approximately 1,300 km (800 miles) and may be extended into Zambia. Trafigura, a Portuguese company, is managing the railway under a 30-year agreement.”

Despite U.S. and EU investments, experts highlight the challenges of competing with China’s entrenched influence in the region. Beijing has established significant ties through infrastructure projects and mineral extraction agreements.

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John Karanga, an economist specialising in African development, commented, “The U.S. faces a tough road ahead in the Lobito Corridor. China’s influence here is not just economic but also deeply political.”

Biden’s Message to Angola

Biden addressed officials and stakeholders in Angola, stating, “This railway is more than a transport route—it is a lifeline for Angola, Zambia, and the DRC to connect with the global economy. It’s about creating opportunities that benefit everyone, not just one country or company.”

The project is expected to expedite the export of cobalt and copper from Kolwezi, a mining hub in the DRC. These minerals are essential for clean energy technologies, including electric vehicles.

Africa’s Role in Global Strategy

Biden’s trip emphasises the United States’ renewed interest in Africa. However, critics argue that the U.S. must expand its engagement beyond economic interests to address pressing social and political issues on the continent.

“We welcome President Biden’s focus on infrastructure,” said Angolan Minister of Transport Ricardo d’Abreu. “But we also urge the U.S. to support broader initiatives in health, education, and technology in Angola.”

Biden’s visit to Angola marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Africa relations, setting the tone for future collaborations and competition with global powers like China.