Question

Why did the Soviet Union and the United States both get involved in proxy wars in Africa during the Cold War?

Answer 1

 were focused solely on providing humanitarian aid to the region. Both governments were concerned with the protection of personal liberties and free elections. Both governments wanted to secure their political influence in the region through support. The United Nations requested that both governments intervene to bring about peace.

...terrorist. Arafat and the PLO were both responsible for a number of brutal attacks against Israel and its allies over the years. Even when he attempted to hold out an olive branch, there was still considerable doubt that he was being true to his word.

 that both governments wanted to secure their political influence in the region through support. That often meant with money, military advisors, or supporting elements that were friendly to their political ideas.