Africa Summit has confirmed U.S. ambition to make up lost ground in the continent . Taking the world by surprise , a liberalized African continent voted with its feet changing suppliers -- re-affirming China 's dominance , with the U.S. fast closing the gap ; the Washington conference is confirmation of President Obama 's new ambition in making up lost ground . The summit is being held at a time when African leaders are struggling with economic and political crises that have left many countries mired in poverty and underdevelopment. The continent holds big promise but unemployment , security and health scares are still challenges . Job creation is key for the U.S. to claw back China 's grip on the African continent .
Africa Summit has confirmed U.S. ambition to make up lost ground in the continent . The summit is being held at a time when African leaders are struggling with economic and political crises that have left many countries mired in poverty and underdevelopment. The continent holds big promise but unemployment , security and health scares are still challenges . Job creation is key for the U.S. to claw back China 's grip on the African continent .