President Joe Biden’s first visit to Africa as president focuses on the Lobito Corridor railway project in Zambia, Congo, and Angola. This initiative seeks to enhance U.S. engagement in Africa by investing in critical mineral infrastructure, countering China’s dominance in the region.
The railway upgrade aligns with U.S. interests in securing supplies of cobalt and other essential minerals for clean energy technologies. With an estimated cost of $2.5 billion, the 800-mile project represents a strategic shift in U.S.-Africa relations, moving beyond traditional trade and aid-based engagement toward infrastructure investment akin to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The Lobito Corridor, supported by U.S., European Union, G7, and private African banks, reflects a new approach to global competition. Analysts note that the project is part of Biden’s broader efforts under the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment to counter China’s influence in developing nations.
However, the success of the project and sustained U.S. focus on Africa may depend on the priorities of future administrations, including Donald Trump’s potential presidency. Observers underscore that Africa’s leaders and the global community are watching whether the U.S. will maintain consistent engagement with the continent.
The Biden administration has invested heavily in strengthening ties with Angola, which has historically had close relations with China. American diplomatic efforts resulted in a Western consortium winning the Lobito bid, despite China’s established presence in the region.
Biden’s Africa Visit Highlights $2.5 Billion Lobito Corridor Project to Counter China’s Influence
Angola’s economic importance, its role in mediating Congo’s conflict, and its strategic Atlantic Ocean location underline the country’s value to U.S. interests. Biden’s visit aims to showcase these diplomatic successes while announcing new initiatives in health, agriculture, and security, further solidifying U.S.-Angola relations.
Criticism has accompanied Biden’s visit, highlighting challenges for U.S. value-based diplomacy in Africa. Rights groups have raised concerns over Angola’s authoritarian drift under President João Lourenço, including political repression and restricted freedoms.
While the U.S. seeks to counterbalance China’s influence, these human rights issues complicate the narrative of a value-driven partnership. This tension underscores the difficulty of promoting democratic values while pursuing strategic economic and geopolitical interests in the region.
Despite the potential of the Lobito Corridor and Biden’s visit, experts remain skeptical about the U.S. significantly changing its approach to Africa. Michelle Gavin, a former U.S. ambassador to Botswana, argues that the U.S. has historically neglected the continent.
While the Lobito project is a positive step, it is insufficient as a standalone effort to transform U.S.-Africa relations. The visit raises broader questions about the consistency and depth of American engagement with Africa, especially as China’s presence on the continent continues to grow.
