U.S. VP Harris begins Africa tour in Ghana
Vice President Kamala Harris of the United States arrived in Accra on Sunday, beginning a three-nation tour that focuses on investment and African economic growth.
“Today begins a weeklong journey, first here in Ghana, then on to Tanzania and then Zambia,” said Harris during public remarks. “I’m very excited about the future of Africa. I’m very excited about the impact of the future of Africa on the rest of the world, including the United States of America.”
But Africa faces increasing economic pressures, with Ghana among nations facing debt crises and high inflation rates. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreed to a controversial US$3 billion bailout for Ghana in December, but progress on the deal has stalled as President Nana Akufo-Addo bears the brunt of criticism for Ghana’s economic crisis.
Harris seeks to present the U.S. as a more reliable and attractive development partner than Russia or China, which is often criticized for its “debt trap” dealings on the African continent. She noted Africa’s young population and its “demographic dividend” potential, driving the future of influence of Africa on global affairs.
Harris said her work will focus on “economic empowerment of women and girls, empowerment of youth entrepreneurship, digital inclusion, and to support the work that must be done to increase food security.”
Harris also plans to discuss climate adaptation with Akufo Addo, as well as during later talks with President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania and President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia.
Image: U.S. Vice President
Laureen Fagan
Laureen is the editor of Africa Times
Laureen is a freelance journalist creating high-quality, informed content on international affairs, politics and technology. She has worked both in and out of newsrooms since 2000. She is a former paramedic with significant experience in community resilience and nonprofit community development initiatives, and maintains "a passion for action" on sustainability and climate change. She also is trained in conflict resolution and diversity, and has special interests in science and medical reporting, and culture and religion issues. Laureen received her MSJ from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism in the United States, and completed additional graduate study in theology at University of Notre Dame. Follow Laureen on Mastodon at @laureen@m.ai6yr.org
