For the first time an American president is convening a summit of almost every African head of state. The stated goal of Barack Obama’s US-Africa Leaders Summit is to focus on US trade and investment, while publicly stating that the event in no way should be seen as a competition with China’s surging investment on the continent. Yeah, well, no one really believes that. Of course every one is watching this summit as a barometer of how engaged Washington plans to be relative to the ever expanding presence of the Chinese, Indians, Brazilians and others across Africa.
Some of the articles referenced during our show include:
- The Guardian (UK): Obama woos African leaders to counter growing Chinese influence
- Mail & Guardian (SA): Playing catch up, Obama seeks bigger US role in Africa
- China Daily (PRC): US competes for better ties with Africa
