Dateline Washington – As part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s annual legislative conference, Rep. Karen Bass (D-Culver City/Crenshaw District) welcomed attendees to the Africa Braintrust.
Ms. Bass is the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Africa and honorary co-chair of the conference.
The theme, “U.S.–Africa Policy in the Next Administration,” brought together American and African government officials as well as prominent private sector and civil society leaders to discuss possible key priorities for the next administration.
They focused on initiatives in economic development, trade and investment; health and education; and the central theme of democracy and governance on the African continent.
“The next administration must keep a laser focus on Africa,” Ms. Bass said.
“It must continue the legacy of President Obama, building on his historic trade agreements, and his historic view of the continent as a key partner in our interconnected world.”
Speakers outlined what is necessary to sustain the relationship between the U.S. and Africa. They discussed the goal of ending global extreme poverty by 2030.
The panelists lamented the need to discuss Africa not as a group of individual countries but as a continent that needs more cohesiveness.
They noted that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to solving the issues that plague the nation and its diverse countries.
Participants provided recommendations such as encouraging more U.S. investment, good governance practices and the growth of small business, using successful U.S. entrepreneurs as a model to implement in Africa.
Panelists recommended continuing those policies that have achieved real impact in the African continent, such as the Feed the Future Program started by President Obama, and Bush administration programs like the Millennium Challenge Corporation and the PEPFAR.
Experts urged the increased investment in agricultural industry – the greatest employer of people in Africa.
Mr. Robinson may be contacted at Djamesrob@gmail.com
