Michelle Obama to visit South Africa, Botswana

US first lady Michelle Obama will visit South Africa and Botswana later this month on an official visit to promote issues such as education, health, and wellness, the White House said on Friday.

"This visit ... will underscore that the United States has an important stake in the success of Africa''s many nations and underscore the historic connections between the American people and those who live on the African continent," the White House said in a statement.

Mrs Obama will also promote the issues of democracy, development and "economic opportunity" in Africa supported by her husband, President Barack Obama, it said.

Obama will be joined by her mother and two daughters, Malia and Sasha, on the trip.