Vice President Harris has been left to deliver a compelling message and make empty promises to African leaders despite massive gains by Russia and China across the continent. Beijing has dropped tariffs to allow duty-free imports from several African countries and struck a multibillionaire deal with Ghana, and Russia likewise is showing increased geopolitical influence. Her visit on behalf of a languishing Biden administration is too little, too late.
Harris’ visit to Ghana — the first stop on her week-long trip to Africa — was a poignant event that can serve to inspire millions of young Africans, particularly women. The Biden admin. is bringing Africa and the US into a new era of partnership by honestly confronting the past and looking to the future.