U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has embarked on a week-long trip where she’ll be visiting Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia, to strengthen U.S. partnerships with African countries amid growing global competition for the continent’s future. This visit comes as a continuation of the U.S.-Africa leaders’ summit held in December, during which President Joe Biden pledged a $55 billion in Africa over the next three years.
My weeklong trip to the continent of Africa is in recognition that African nations are critical to global prosperity and security — and their ideas and innovations will benefit the world.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 27, 2023
It's my great honor to be on the continent of Africa – first here in Ghana, then to Tanzania and Zambia.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 26, 2023
I look forward to meeting with leaders, young people, and entrepreneurs as we work together to invest in the innovation and ingenuity across the continent. pic.twitter.com/imBoTwpldz
In a joint news conference with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, Vice President Harris addressed a wide range of issues, including democracy, global security, and long-term economic growth. She also emphasized the United States’ commitment to strengthening partnerships with African nations.
The U.S. VP promised assistance with security in the nation and increased investments there, announcing $100 million in U.S. aid to Ghana. “Under your leadership, Ghana has been a beacon of democracy and a contributor to global peace and security,” she told the president in remarks following their meeting.
The energy and creativity of Ghana’s young leaders will shape the future of Africa – and the world. pic.twitter.com/5vjmRhZw92
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 26, 2023
I met with President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana to discuss wide-ranging topics, including our shared commitment to democracy, global security, and long-term economic growth.@POTUS and I are grateful to have a strong partner in Ghana. pic.twitter.com/dnhKjFEXmd
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 27, 2023
A tremendous welcome from the people of Ghana. pic.twitter.com/KJaXtMnfET
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) March 26, 2023
Watch Kamala Harris’ full speech at the press conference below.
The @VP has arrived at the presidential palace of Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo for their bilateral meeting. pic.twitter.com/w6h0MKZ0Z9
— Akayla Gardner (@gardnerakayla) March 27, 2023
“There may be an obsession in America about Chinese activities on the continent. There is no such obsession here,” @NAkufoAddo said. pic.twitter.com/CJvmD89vLo
— Akayla Gardner (@gardnerakayla) March 27, 2023
Following the news conference, Vice President Kamala Harris paid a visit to Vibrate Space, a recording studio for the community. Accompanying her were actors Idris Elba and Sheryl Lee Ralph. And later attended a state banquet with the Ghanaian president and first lady.
See photos below.
Surprise! @VP visits a local recording studio with Idris Elba and Sheryl Lee Ralph pic.twitter.com/uwOBs4DoH0
— Akayla Gardner (@gardnerakayla) March 27, 2023
Idris Elba, who's British but whose mother is from Ghana, stopped at a local recording studio with @VP Kamala Harris. Via @gardnerakayla in Accra https://t.co/oh1F9eu4G2 https://t.co/W76F42zebw
— Jennifer Jacobs (@JenniferJJacobs) March 27, 2023
Spike Lee and his wife arrive at the state dinner in Ghana. pic.twitter.com/53lxI0npCQ
— Akayla Gardner (@gardnerakayla) March 27, 2023
New: VP Kamala Harris & 2nd Gentleman headed to a dinner hosted by Ghana's president & first lady.
— Eugene Daniels (@EugeneDaniels2) March 27, 2023
Some Guests:
Sheryl Lee Ralph
Idris Elba
Spike Lee
Rosario Dawson
Howard Pres Wayne Frederick
NAACP Pres Derrick Johnson
Former AG Loretta Lynch
BET President Scott Mills