Hollande begins Africa tour; focus on economy, security

French president, François Hollande will be accompanied by 50 businessmen on a two-day tour in three African countries starting from Wednesday, July 1.

This tour targets states with whom ties with France are gradually getting weak. They are Benin, Angola and Cameroon. The last visit of a French head of State to Benin dates back to 1983, 1999 for Cameroon and 2008 for Angola.

François Hollande’s visit to Benin will mostly focus on Benin's democracy. The French leader said he hopes democracy is strengthened as the current president, Thomas Boni Yayi is not legible for a third term in 2016 according to the Constitution.

Mr. Hollande will visit two sites presented as the models of the Franco-Benin cooperation: Franco-Benin research centre which is for testing a new vaccine against malaria and a microcenter of the French Bollore solar electricity storage.

In Angola, the second-largest producer of crude in Africa, discussions will essentially be on economic challenges. The 50 businessmen accompanying François Hollande seek one billion euros of contracts. The French oil group, Total which generates 15% of its global extraction of crude in Angola, is expected to sign two major agreements including one concerning the commercialization of solar lights. Accor is expected to sign contracts for the construction of 50 hotels, while the BTP Eiffage group could sign for the delivery of 300 gateways.

In Cameroon, Mr. Hollande’s visit will officially focus on political and security issues in the fight against the Nigerian Islamist group, Boko Haram. The French president will also meet all political parties and NGOs responsible for women. The port of Kribi will also be on the agenda.

In 2012, François Hollande visited about 15 sub-Saharan African States which showed a sign of growth in rich in natural resources.