Joe Biden’s highly anticipated visit to Angola, scheduled for October 13, would have marked his first trip to Africa as President of the United States. However, due to Hurricane Milton threatening Florida, the trip was postponed along with a visit to Germany.
The delay raised criticism that Biden’s administration has not prioritized Africa, despite promises made to the continent. Competing global powers like China and Russia have been expanding their influence in Africa, emphasizing its strategic importance.
Biden’s postponed visit to Angola was viewed as a last-minute effort to fulfill his commitments, as his term nears its end. Critics argue that the administration has failed to match rhetoric with action when it comes to Africa.
The relationship between the US and Angola, although billed as significant, raises concerns due to Angola’s internal issues and human rights violations. Biden’s outreach to Angola is seen as an attempt to counter Chinese and Russian influence in the region.
With Biden’s legacy in Africa under scrutiny, it remains to be seen how his administration’s policies will be judged in light of unmet expectations and promises.