U.S. President Joe Biden has embarked on a historic visit to Angola, marking the first bilateral trip by a sitting American president to the country and his first trip to sub-Saharan Africa during his presidency. This landmark visit, scheduled from December 2–4, 2024, underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to deepening U.S.-Africa relations amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges. The trip is part of broader efforts to counter China’s influence in Africa while fostering sustainable development and regional stability.
Angola, once deeply aligned with Cold War rivalries, has transformed into a key partner for the United States. The bilateral relationship has evolved significantly, particularly under President João Lourenço, who has taken steps to diversify Angola’s international partnerships. For Biden, this visit symbolises a new era in U.S.-Angola relations, focusing on economic development, health initiatives, and security cooperation.

At the heart of this revitalisation is the Lobito Corridor project, an 800-mile railway connecting mineral-rich regions in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo to Angola’s Atlantic port of Lobito. The corridor aims to transport critical minerals like cobalt and copper essential for renewable energy technologies, reducing dependence on China-dominated supply chains.
Africa has become a battleground for global powers vying for economic and strategic influence. China’s extensive investments and infrastructure projects, particularly in critical minerals, have made it a dominant player in the region. By visiting Angola, Biden seeks to showcase the U.S. as a viable alternative for economic and technological collaboration. The Lobito Corridor project, led by an American consortium, exemplifies this shift, as it offers a transparent, sustainable approach compared to Beijing’s often-criticised debt-driven model.

Christian-Géraud Neema, an analyst of China-Africa relations, noted that projects like Lobito are pivotal in countering Chinese dominance but require bipartisan support in Washington to ensure long-term success. Biden’s trip emphasises that the U.S. is willing to invest in infrastructure that not only benefits African economies but also aligns with global priorities like clean energy and fair trade.
Beyond critical minerals, Biden’s visit includes discussions on healthcare advancements, agricultural partnerships, and regional security. The United States and Angola are expected to announce initiatives aimed at combating health crises, enhancing food security, and tackling environmental challenges.
Angola’s agricultural sector, with its vast arable land, is a promising area for U.S. investment. Biden’s administration is keen to promote sustainable farming practices and reduce the region’s vulnerability to global food supply disruptions. Additionally, security cooperation will be strengthened to address transnational threats like piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and illicit trafficking.

Biden’s visit comes at a time when Angola faces international scrutiny for alleged authoritarian tendencies under President Lourenço. Reports of political suppression and restrictive laws have prompted human rights groups to question the balance between strategic partnerships and value-based diplomacy. While Biden is expected to address these issues discreetly, critics argue that the U.S. should leverage its influence to promote democratic reforms in Angola.
The success of Biden’s initiatives in Angola depends on several factors, including sustained U.S. engagement, African cooperation, and bipartisan support in Washington. With the impending transition to the Trump administration, there are concerns about the continuity of these efforts. Analysts warn that without consistent policy backing, projects like the Lobito Corridor could lose momentum.
Nevertheless, Biden’s visit is a pivotal step in reinforcing the U.S. commitment to Africa. It sends a clear message that the continent is a strategic priority for the United States. By fostering partnerships based on mutual benefit and respect, the Biden administration hopes to redefine U.S.-Africa relations for the 21st century.

President Biden’s trip to Angola is more than a diplomatic gesture; it is a statement of intent. By focusing on critical minerals, sustainable development, and regional security, the U.S. aims to position itself as a reliable partner for Africa’s future. This first-ever bilateral visit to Angola signifies a turning point in U.S.-Africa relations, offering new opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth.
As the world navigates an era of shifting power dynamics, Angola’s role as a bridge between global markets and Africa’s vast resources highlights the importance of strategic partnerships. For Biden, this trip is not just about countering rivals but about building a foundation for shared prosperity in a rapidly changing world.
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