President Joe Biden, 82, appeared to briefly close his eyes during a televised discussion on his final day in sub-Saharan Africa, sparking speculation about his energy levels. Despite this moment, Biden unveiled a landmark $2.5 billion U.S.-backed railway project to connect Angola, Zambia, and Congo through the Lobito Trans-Africa Corridor.
A railway project with global stakes
Biden highlighted the 800-mile Lobito Corridor as a transformative initiative to advance U.S. interests in Africa while countering China’s growing influence. The rail line, designed to transport critical minerals like cobalt and copper, is expected to significantly reduce cargo transit time from 45 days to less than 45 hours.
“Africa has been left behind for much too long. But not anymore. Africa is the future,” Biden stated, comparing the effort to America’s historic transcontinental railroad.
Biden’s personal connection to trains
Known for his long-standing fondness for trains, Biden shared memories of his Amtrak commutes from Delaware to Washington, D.C., during his time as a senator. “Mr. President, I’m coming back to ride on the train all the way from end to end,” he told Angola President João Lourenço, expressing enthusiasm for the project.
A pushback against China’s influence
The railway project represents the largest U.S. investment in African infrastructure and aligns with efforts to rival China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The Biden administration aims to support African development while fostering partnerships to secure critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies.
Challenges ahead for Biden and Trump
Though Biden laid the groundwork for this major initiative, much of its implementation will occur under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump, set to take office in January. The Biden administration notes bipartisan support for past African investment projects, indicating potential continuity across administrations.
“I want to come back and ride the whole thing,” Biden told African leaders before departing.
