The outgoing U.S. President, defeated in the recent elections, will make his final visit to Africa as head of state from December 2 to 4. Joe Biden has chosen Angola as the stage for this symbolic farewell.
This visit, rich in symbolism, underscores the United States' commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with Africa amid shifting global dynamics and competition from other powers. According to Dr. Frances Brown, Special Assistant to the President for African Affairs, the trip highlights Africa's growing importance on the international stage. "It is impossible to tackle the major challenges of our time without Africa’s contributions and leadership,” she stated. By choosing Angola, Biden aims not only to acknowledge the country's strategic weight but also to spotlight the progress in bilateral relations.
This move aligns with a broader strategy to deepen economic, political, and diplomatic ties with the continent. Dr. Brown outlined three key goals for the visit: "to promote American leadership in trade and investment, highlight Angola’s regional role, and celebrate the significant evolution of relations between our two nations.”
Since the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, where the United States pledged $55 billion for various projects across Africa, nearly 80% of these funds have already been deployed. Angola, the fourth-largest U.S. trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa, has particularly benefited from this momentum, notably through large-scale infrastructure initiatives.
One flagship project under discussion is the Lobito Corridor, an ambitious rail and logistics network designed to transform the region. Connecting Angola with its neighbors, this corridor aims to boost trade while improving local living conditions.
Helaina R. Matza, Coordinator for the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "This project goes beyond infrastructure. It’s about connecting communities, improving access to education, facilitating the flow of agricultural goods, and enhancing digital connectivity.”
The U.S. investment model, which emphasizes respect for local priorities, is presented as an alternative to what some consider more coercive approaches by other global players. "We impose no choices on countries but support them in their sovereign decisions,” Dr. Brown noted. This philosophy, referred to by Matza as a "race to the top,” seeks to offer competitive, tailored options to African partners.
A Dialogue on Democracy and Development
Beyond economic discussions, the visit will address critical political and social issues. Dr. Brown emphasized that Joe Biden will not shy away from discussing the challenges of democracy with African leaders, stressing the importance of continuous efforts to strengthen democratic institutions.
Helaina Matza highlighted the value of a partnership built on trust and transparency. "We propose an investment model that truly collaborates with partners, avoiding opaque conditions,” she explained, referencing past practices that have sometimes marred international initiatives.
As attention shifts to the potential impact of Donald Trump’s election in 2025 on U.S.-Africa policy, Biden’s visit could either lay the groundwork for continuity or signal a reevaluation of strategic priorities. In any case, Africa now appears to hold a central place in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting the aspirations of both parties to build a shared, prosperous, and balanced future.