I think yes, often, but it depends on where you live and how you present the experience in your application. It’s up to you to communicate in your application – through essays, recommendations, interviews – how your experience as an African American living in Ethiopia could contribute to the campus community.
You should definitely apply as a US citizen, not an international, even if you have dual citizenship. The international pool is more competitive, especially if you require financial aid. Colleges like expat American citizens – especially those from underdeveloped, hotspot countries – because they can offer diverse experiences without concerns about cultural adaptability, language proficiency or visas.
Unless you intend to take a gap year, you will not have your final IB scores until after you’ve completed the American application process. Predicted scores are helpful, but usually not a major factor in admissions. Your GPA and SAT/ACT scores will be more significant.
Some IB students take AP exams as well. My son didn’t do that, but it was a common procedure at his international high school, both to have scores to list on the application and to secure AP course credit.
Colleges understand that grading systems vary in other countries. Think about how you can communicate the difference – perhaps in your counselor’s recommendation or a special notation from a teacher who is familiar with US education.
I wouldn’t fret too much over your freshman year grades. You can’t change it anyway. Just continue the upward trend. And as mentioned, make sure you have a balanced list of reach, match and safety schools.