Joe Biden's Historic Visit to Angola

In a groundbreaking moment for US-Africa relations, President Joe Biden is set to embark on his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as President, focusing on the resource-rich nation of Angola. This important visit comes at a time of uncertainty regarding the future of US policies toward the continent, especially with former President Donald Trump poised for a return to power in early 2024.

Strengthening Trade and Investment

Biden’s visit signals a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening trade and investment in infrastructure within Africa. Analysts believe this move is a response to China’s increasing influence across the continent, marking a significant shift in US diplomatic strategy. "It's a perfect marriage of convenience," stated Edmilson Angelo, an Angolan analyst, reflecting on the importance of enhancing ties with the US.

A Historic First

Notably, Biden's trip is historic as he becomes the first sitting US president to visit Angola, highlighting a tangible shift in relations that have evolved since Angola's independence from Portuguese rule in 1975. Under President João Lourenço, who assumed office in 2017, Angola has pivoted away from its previous alliances with China and Russia toward a more pragmatic partnership with the US.

The Lobito Corridor Project

At the core of Biden's agenda will be the Lobito Corridor, a $600 billion investment aimed at constructing a railway extending 1,344 kilometers (835 miles). This corridor will connect crucial mineral-rich regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to Angola's Lobito port on the Atlantic coast. This project is not only pivotal for transport but crucial for the mining of cobalt, lithium, and copper—essential components for the electric vehicle battery revolution.

US's Response to China's Initiative

The Lobito Corridor is being heralded as the US's answer to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. The Lobito Corridor Investment Promotion Authority has emphasized that this project represents a significant partnership involving the US, G7 countries, and private investors, marking a strategic shift in how economic influence is exercised in Africa.

Concerns Over Longevity

While Biden's trip crystallizes commitment to the region, there remain concerns about the project enduring beyond his presidency, especially with Trump’s potential focus on tariffs and trade wars with China. However, analysts remain hopeful, with Alexander Vines from Chatham House suggesting that the project could gain bipartisan support due to its competitive edge against Chinese investments.

Angola's Forward-Looking Approach

President Lourenço expressed hope that irrespective of political changes in the US, Angola's efforts to forge strong ties will prevail. "Powers come and go, so we must be prepared to collaborate with whoever occupies the White House," he noted, indicating a forward-looking approach to international relations.

Challenges Ahead

Even as Angola's government looks to modernize its image and its infrastructure—having recently reconstructed parts of the Benguela railway that lay dormant post-civil war—challenges lie ahead. With many African nations contemplating reduced exports of raw materials in favor of local processing, experts warn that the economic projections for the Lobito Corridor could face hurdles.

Economic Sustainability Concerns

Anthony Carroll, a mineral expert, points to the sustainable demand for copper but highlights that lithium and cobalt could face cyclical challenges. Given the Democratic Republic of Congo's staggering cobalt reserves, which account for around 63% of the global supply, the need for strategic planning to harness these resources effectively is paramount.

Reshaping International Image

Angelo emphasizes the significance of Biden's visit in reshaping Angola's international image, asserting, "Where the US president goes, the entire world follows." The move represents not just an opportunity for Angola, but a crucial moment for the US as it seeks to redefine its role in Africa amid rising global power dynamics.

A Landmark Moment for Angola

As Angola looks to rebuild and strengthen its infrastructure post-civil war, this visit stands as a landmark moment, underscoring the potential for renewed partnerships and investment on the African continent.