Post date: Jul 02, 2013 3:31:33 PM
Reuters Business Report - Tanzania gives U.S. President Barack Obama a colourful send off as he wraps up an eight-day tour of Africa on Tuesday.
Some see the visit to Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania as an attempt to play catch-up with competitor China in the fast-growing continent.
Earlier in the day, Obama and his predecessor George W. Bush commemorated victims of the 1998 bombing at the U.S. embassy in Dar es Salaam.Obama also announced a trade initiative and efforts to stop wildlife trafficking.
Meanwhile, First Ladies Michelle Obama and Laura Bush highlighted women's health and welfare at a summit for the first ladies of Africa.
U.S. FIRST LADY MICHELE OBAMA,
"Women and girls are at the key to our salvation as a civilization and we all have to understand that as we make decisions about investment in health and education."
Laura Bush also announced a new initiative to convene first ladies from around the world annually to support their political roles.
The unusual Obama-Bush combination spotlights U.S. interest in the continent and the importance of Africa to the legacies of both presidents.