Instagramming Africa: Michelle Obama documents the first family’s trip

Michelle Obama Instagram profile

Michelle Obama Instagram profile

Given the way her husband used social media to ride his way to victory in the 2008, it’s hardly surprising that Michelle Obama is active across a number of platforms. Interestingly though, she only joined Instagram very recently.

It’s possible however that she may have delayed joining until it could coincide with the Obamas’ tour. Whichever member of her team is in charge of the majority of the photos (Obama’s in a lot of the pictures and none of them are selfies) certainly knows their way around a filter and isn’t so bad when it comes to using Instagram’s new video feature either.

Since joining, the first lady has gathered over 270 000 followers. If however you’re not on Instagram and can’t see what she’s been up to, fear not. We’ve gathered together some of the best photos of the Obama’s Africa trip from her account, for your pleasure

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The First Photo

Obama's first Instagram photo was taken in Dakar, Senegal at the MLK Middle School. "So inspired and so impressed by these extraordinary young women," she posted

The Door Of No Return

The House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves) and its Door of No Return is a museum and memorial to the Atlantic slave trade on Gorée Island, 3 km off the coast of the city of Dakar, Senegal.

Johannesburg

This was the view that greeted the Obamas as they started the next leg of their trip in Johannesburg, South Africa

Michelle Obama Addresses Young South Africans

At an event in Johannesburg, Obama challenged young South Africans and people across the globe to use education to its full potential. "Today, I want to ask you, what barriers will you break...what legacy will you leave for the next generation?", she asked The event was held at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, Saturday, June 29, 2013, in Johannesburg, South Africa, organized in conjunction with MTV Base, an African youth and music TV channel, and Google+ to highlight the importance of education.

Michelle Obama Speaks About Mandela's Legacy

At the same event, Obama spoke about the lessons we can learn from Nelson Mandela's legacy: "If President Mandela can hold tight to his vision for this country's future during all those years he faced in jail...then surely you can hold on to your hopes for your own future...surely you can do everything in your power to seize the opportunities he fought for."

The Obamas Arrive In Cape Town

Cape Town put on its best outfit for the US first family.

The Obamas Tour Robben Island

The Obamas toured Robben Island -- where Nelson Mandela spent a large portion of his 27 years in prison -- guided by anti-apartheid struggle veteran Ahmed Kathrada

Arriving In Tanzania

Michelle Obama walks down the red carpet in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in the company of first lady, Salma Kikwete

Honoring Us Embassy Bombing Victims

Obama and Kikwete honour the victims of the 1998 US embassy bombing by al-Qaeda.

Leaving Tanzania

The Obamas leave Tanzania, cheered on by flag-waving spectators.

Michelle Obama Instagram Profile

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