This is the second in a two-part series on the U.S.-South Africa bilateral relationship. Part I examined the state of economic ties. Part II examines the state of political ties.
U.S. President Barack Obama’s recent visit to South Africa was positive in tone and strong in symbolism, but there was a tangible sense that both sides were going through the motions. If the trip was a rather subdued affair in terms of policy outcomes, it is in part because the U.S.-South Africa political relationship is actually quite fractious, and even the traditional trappings of summitry could not conceal a range of differences.
For one thing, Africa in general, and South Africa in particular, have not enjoyed the prominence in American foreign policy thinking that had been anticipated back in 2009. Obama’s first term was characterized by a relative neglect of the continent, and consequently his visit did not generate the euphoria it might have four years earlier. There was also the perception that what is really galvanizing Washington’s newfound attention is not Africa per se but a belated recognition that American neglect had created openings for China to expand its economic and diplomatic presence on the continent.