JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — When Barack Obama visited South Africa as an Illinois senator in 2006, the reaction from the government was one big shrug. Only one Cabinet minister took the time to meet him. The local newspapers barely noticed.
What a difference a few years, and a historic presidential election, can make.
From Liberia to Nigeria to Kenya, many Africans are convinced that Obama's victory this week is going to thrust them into the world's spotlight. But will a president who inherits two wars and a deepening global recession really be able to usher in an era of hope for the world's poorest continent?
Some think so: "There will be a tremendous change economically, socially and politically around the world," said Buki Ponle, 52, a journalist based in Lagos, Nigeria. He says he followed the election "as if my life depended on it."
Despite the grass-roots euphoria, especially in Kenya, where Obama's father was born, others are wary.
"The election of a black man as president of the U.S. is not a solution to problems of the blacks all over the world," said Nigerian Sen. Iyabo Obasanjo Bello, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. "We are putting too much hope and expectations on one man to save the black race."
Some fear that Obama favors protectionist measures to rescue American jobs, and wonder whether Africa wouldn't have been better off under John McCain, who opposes the U.S. farm subsidies that are so damaging to African agriculture and who favors fewer tariffs.
Patrick Smith, editor of the respected journal Africa Confidential, said Obama's election had enormous implications for Africa because of his connection with the continent. He predicted a less paternalistic, more intelligent approach.
"That sets the tone for what's going to be a lot more considered and effective approach," Smith said.
Barney Mthombothi, editor of South Africa's influential Financial Mail magazine, warned that Africans' expectations were too high: They'd forgotten that Obama would pursue U.S. interests above all.
"Africa often tends to behave a bit like an unwanted orphan, who suddenly discovers a famous uncle, who'll hopefully wipe away the tears and provide a protective arm. It doesn't always work that way," he wrote in a column.
Analyst Tom Wheeler said it was unlikely the United States would direct more aid to Africa.
