Pity the Poor American Diplomat in Africa

Photo by James Kenny on Unsplash

Life is not getting any easier for the U.S. diplomats posted in Africa. Today’s clown show, excuse me, “presidential debate,” is certainly not going to make what seems like increasingly awkward and uncomfortable discussions with local stakeholders any easier.

Fairly or not, U.S. policy in Africa is measured against China’s engagement on the continent, and events over the past week reveal just how difficult it’s becoming for U.S. diplomats to have those conversations.

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