Biden's Missed Opportunities in Africa

As President Joe Biden's term draws to a close, his unfulfilled promises to Africa come under scrutiny. Despite initial pledges to prioritize the continent, Biden has yet to visit any African nation, a stark contrast to his frequent trips to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His planned visit to Angola, which was postponed due to Hurricane Milton, highlights the broader issue of Africa being sidelined in US foreign policy.

Biden's administration has struggled to align its rhetoric with actions. Promises made at the US-Africa Leaders Summit in December 2022, such as advocating for permanent African seats at the UN Security Council and integrating the African Union into the G20, remain largely unfulfilled. Critics argue that Biden's focus on Africa was more about rhetoric than action, evidenced by the delayed release of a policy document until August 2022.

While Biden has dispatched officials like Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Vice President Kamala Harris to the continent, their visits lack the impact of presidential diplomacy. Meanwhile, global powers like China and Russia have strengthened their ties with Africa, leaving the US lagging behind.

Biden's diplomatic overtures, including a $55 billion support package for Africa, have been overshadowed by his administration's failure to address human rights issues in countries like Angola, where President Joao Lourenco faces domestic unrest. This has led to skepticism about the authenticity of US intentions.

As Biden's presidency ends, his African legacy remains weak, with experts noting that unmet expectations have left a lasting mark. His successor will inherit the challenge of bridging the gap between ambitious promises and tangible outcomes for Africa.