The United States aims to boost cooperation with African nations as President Joe Biden hosts dozens of regional leaders at the second US-Africa Leaders Summit this week in Washington, DC.
More than 40 heads of government or state as well as African Union officials and businesspeople are due to attend the three-day gathering.
US officials say the summit will promote democracy and trade.
The Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, told a meeting of African entrepreneurs that the emphasis would be on partnership.
The US is engaged in struggle for influence on the continent with China, Russia and others.
