Incumbent US President Joe Biden's announcement to withdraw from the US presidential race has been hailed as a smart move by many, though there has also been some criticism that he took the decision to exit so late into the campaign.

Biden only left the race after coming under intense pressure from within the ranks of his own party, which according to pollsters would otherwise have been struggling to retain the presidency in the upcoming November election.

Even though the US election is literally an ocean away, many Africans have also expressed a proactive interest in following the drama in the US. But for some people in Africa, the race nevertheless hits closer to home than others.

"It is obvious that his health is not a 100% and he deserves time to heal and not take on the burdens of the whole world," said Patricia Wilkins, an African-American who has been based in Ghana for the past two decades.

"I am very grateful for Joe Biden's long service to our country and his dedication to the Democratic Party."

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Since Sunday's announcement, Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidential nomination. Harris now looks all but set to become the Democratic nominee.

For many, the prospect of a female US president with roots in the Caribbean........

© Deutsche Welle