Kamala Harris Embarks on Weeklong Trip to Africa To Strengthen Diplomatic Alliances
The U.S. Vice President, Kamala Harris, is set to embark on a weeklong trip to Africa in order to strengthen diplomatic alliances with three countries on the continent. This marks the second visit of an American vice president to Africa in decades and is significant as Harris is the first Black woman to ever serve in the role. Harris will visit Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya with the intention to expand partnerships that prioritize foreign policy, security, and economic growth.
What Kamala Harris Aim’s to Accomplish During Her Trip
Vice President Harris’ goal for the week-long tour is to strengthen existing ties with African countries and work with their leaders to build power in the region. During her stops in Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya, Harris plans to focus on the solutions for democratic governance and economic development. Additionally,Harris and other members of the Biden administration will discuss potential partnerships to counter security challenges, as well as increase participation of African nations in the global economy.
Kamala Harris in Ghana
During her time in Ghana, Vice President Harris will meet with the African Union to discuss a range of concerns, including regional security and enhanced economic ties. She will also meet with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo and deliver an address to the people of Ghana. According to the White House, the visit to Ghana is intended to build on the historical tie between the country and the U.S., celebrate Ghana’s democracy, and start a relationship that focuses on progress in investment and security.
Kamala Harris in South Africa
In South Africa, Vice President Harris will meet with President Cyril Ramaphosa and First Lady Tshepo Motsepe. Harris will also meet with African Union Chair and South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, to discuss economic and security partnerships, as well as agricultural programs. In addition to her meetings and diplomatic tasks, Harris will also pay tribute to the late former South African President Nelson Mandela and commemorate the centennial of his birth.
Kamala Harris in Kenya
Vice President Harris will spend a day in Kenya to discuss a range of issues including security, trade, and investment. Moreover, Harris will meet with President Uhuru Kenyatta and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Kenya and advance diplomatic relations. Prior to Harris’ visit to Kenya, the U.S. government canceled the visa of Kenyan journalist and politician Miguna Miguna. Harris hasn’t revealed any plans to discuss this issue despite calls from press freedom advocates.
Harris Announces a U.S.-African Partnership on Women’s Economic Empowerment
On the same day, that her official visit to Africa was announced, Vice President Harris revealed a U.S.- Africa partnership that focuses on women’s economic empowerment. This is in line with the ‘Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative’ which was proposed by the Biden administration earlier this year. This Initiative works to economically empower underprivileged women and builds on the organizing principle of the Paris Declaration.
Key Takeaways of the U.S-Africa Partnership
The U.S.- African partnership will focus on promoting access to women-led enterprises and job opportunities, removing legal barriers that hinder economic development, and supporting tech-enabled innovation and investment. Additionally, the initiative consists of a four-point program which consists of the following:
• Invest in women entrepreneurs and business owners
• Help women access financing
• Strengthen women’s access to markets
• Improve the legislative and regulatory environment that encompasses women’s economic development.
Reactions to the Partnership
The U.S.- African partnership has been commended by a host of public figures, politicians, and organizations. Many have praised the Biden administration for placing a focus on women’s economic opportunities and also for Harris making them a priority as Vice President. On the other hand, some have criticized the partnership for being similar to the Trump administration’s Power Africa, which failed to produce tangible results for the women of Africa.
The week-long trip of Vice President Harris to Africa is a significant one; it marks not just the second visit of an American vice president to Africa in decades but also the first time a black woman has served in this role. Harris will visit Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya in order to strengthen diplomatic alliances with these countries and focus on improving security, democratic governance, economic development, and the role of women in the economy. Her announced U.S.-African partnership on Women’s Economic Empowerment further highlights the Biden administration’s commitment to promoting economic opportunities for African women. Harris’ visit to Africa will undoubtedly be impactful, and the outcomes of the trip will ensure that diplomatic ties between African countries and the U.S. are improved and mutually beneficial for both regions.
