Obama in Senegal for first leg of Africa trip

US President Barack Obama praised Senegal for its democratic progress on Thursday, after being welcomed by President Macky Sall on the first leg of his Africa trip.

"Senegal is one of the most stable democracies in Africa and one of the strongest partners that we have in the region," Obama said.

"It is moving in the right direction, with reforms to deepen democratic institutions, and as more Africans across this continent stand up and demand governments that are accountable and serve the people, I believe Senegal can be a great example."

The Obama administration is currently exploring a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which would remove many trade barriers for American companies interested in doing business in Senegal.