Kenyan President William Ruto’s official state visit to the US marks the first for an African leader in over 15 years.
This visit gives President Joe Biden a chance to show commitment to Africa, especially as the US faces increased competition from Russia and China on the continent.
Ruto, who once faced charges from the International Criminal Court that were later dropped, is now a key partner for the US. However, some concerns remain about his democratic credentials. Despite these concerns, US ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, highlighted Kenya’s role as a stable democracy and crucial ally in East Africa.
Ruto has become an advocate for Africa on issues like climate change and debt relief, and Kenya is a significant security partner for the US. This partnership includes Kenya’s pledge to send police to Haiti, a move praised by Washington.
The visit is partly seen as a way to make up for Biden’s unfulfilled promise to visit Africa, made at a summit of African leaders in Washington two years ago. However, Biden’s attention has been diverted by crises in Ukraine and Gaza.
US relations with other African countries have been strained, particularly in West Africa. For example, Niger’s recent coup has led to closer ties with Russia and Iran, resulting in the US pulling its troops from the country.
The Biden administration has made efforts to improve ties with Africa, including high-level visits and supporting African nations’ representation in global forums.
Despite competition from China, Russia, and other nations, the US aims to build long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships with African countries.
According to Kingsley Moghalu, a Nigerian economist, the US gains leverage in promoting democracy by delivering major projects beneficial to African economies, like the Lobito Corridor rail line.
The changing dynamics in Africa are seen as a “new scramble for Africa,” where the continent actively engages and surprises global powers with its strategic moves.
(Source: BBC)
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd1195l7nepo