Biden In Angola: Pledges US-Africa Partnership, Reflects On Shared History Of Slavery

US President Joe Biden made a historic visit to Angola, marking his first presidential visit and only trip to Africa. During his visit Biden reaffirmed US commitment of having long-term engagement with Africa. On Tuesday, Angolan President João Lourenço and Biden meet in Luanda, Biden emphasized the US’s readiness to support African initiatives on their own terms, repeating his commitment to being “all in on Africa.”

“You should understand the extent to which we’re prepared to be engaged,” Biden stated before a private meeting with Lourenço, underscoring the US’s willingness to listen and collaborate on Angola’s needs.

Lourenço has also expressed interest in strengthening ties with the US through increased foreign investment and enhanced defense cooperation, including joint military exercises and collaboration in the Gulf of Guinea. He praised US investments in Angola’s oil and gas sector and infrastructure projects.

Both the leaders have also discussed the Lobito Corridor, a US-backed railway initiative aimed at streamlining mineral exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Biden’s visit fulfills his promise to visit Africa before his term ends in January.

Legacy of Slavery 

Biden later visited Angola’s National Museum of Slavery, reflecting on the transatlantic slave trade and the shared history between the two nations. The museum, located at a former slave-trading site, houses artifacts such as shackles and iron weights, serving as a somber reminder of Angola’s role in the trade.

Among those in attendance was Wanda Tucker, a descendant of the first enslaved child born in the US, whose parents were brought from Angola in 1619. The US announced a $229,000 grant for the museum’s restoration.

While Biden’s visit aims to solidify ties, challenges remain as US influence on the continent has waned, with growing alignments toward China and Russia. His successor, President-elect Donald Trump, is expected to continue key initiatives like the Lobito Corridor while addressing broader geopolitical concerns.