President Joe Biden’s first official trip to Africa, nearly two years after promising to visit the continent, has drawn mixed reactions from analysts and human rights advocates. Biden’s itinerary includes Angola and a brief stop in Cabo Verde, a decision questioned by some due to Angola’s human rights concerns, reports suggest.
Biden’s trip, occurring in the final weeks of his presidency, has prompted debate about its timing and impact. Analysts like Louw Nel, senior political analyst at Oxford Economics Africa, expressed skepticism during an interview with VOA, stating the visit’s significance has diminished because Biden is not seeking a second term. Nel described it as feeling “like an afterthought to his presidency.”
In Angola, Biden aims to strengthen U.S. leadership in trade, investment, and infrastructure development. A centerpiece of this effort is the Lobito Corridor, a regional railway project connecting Angola to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. White House officials describe the corridor as essential for enhancing local economies, education, and digital connectivity.
Despite Angola being America’s fourth-largest trade partner in Sub-Saharan Africa, human rights activists have criticized the visit. Amnesty International highlights the arrest of government critics and the shrinking space for civil liberties under President João Lourenço. Critics urge Biden to address these issues during his discussions.
Adriano Nuvunga, director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights in Mozambique, also voiced concerns. In an interview, he commended Angola for hosting Biden but urged the U.S. president to confront Lourenço on human rights violations. “We have human rights defenders detained unjustly. They are languishing in jail, and some are in critical condition,” Nuvunga stated.
While some Angolans see economic potential in Biden’s visit, others argue it could be seen as rewarding a government accused of undermining democratic freedoms. Biden’s Africa trip, though economically strategic, highlights the delicate balance between promoting partnerships and addressing governance and human rights concerns.