AU Mission Washington, DC - Invest in Africa 2019, Vol. 1 by AMIP News

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Gender equality is more than a goal in itself. It is a precondition for meeting the challenge of reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development, and building good governance.

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Africa 2019 Vol 1

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WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS H.E. Paul Kagame President of the Republic of Rwanda and African Union Chairman H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Thomas Kwesi Quartey Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao African Union Permanent Representative to the United States H.E. Albert Muchanga Commissioner for Trade & Industry, African Union Commission H.E. Amina J. Mohammed Deputy Secretary General, United Nations

PHOTOS AMIP News AU/AU Mission (Washington, DC, and New York) Emerson College iStock by Getty Images ATIGS 2018 United Nations Press Office PAWO The Daily Show Maison Dorcas Women’s Singing Group

H.E. Fatima Kyari Mohammed African Union Permanent Observer to the United Nations Representative Karen Bass Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Africa Convener of Africa Policy Breakfast Series Frederick Nnoma-Addison President & CEO, AMIP News Commissioner on African Affairs, State of Maryland, USA H.E. Dr. Joyce Banda Former President of Malawi Florizelle “Florie” Liser President and CEO, Corporate Council on Africa Hafez Ghanem Africa Region Vice President, The World Bank Group Lawrence Freeman Political Economist for Africa / Vice Chair, International Scientific Advisory Committee to the Lake Chad Basin Commission

EDITORIAL TEAM Managing Editor Frederick Nnoma-Addison AU Editorial Consultant H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao Content Editor Beryl Nnoma-Addison AU Policy Officer Seraphine Manirambona AU Secretary Josepha Musabyemariya AU Administrative Officer Miriam Menda

Trevor Noah Host, The Daily Show Victor Adetula Head of Research, Nordic Africa Institute, Sweden Professor of International Relations and Development Studies, University of Jos, Nigeria

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I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

Invest in Africa is distributed to African Heads of State, government ministers, and dignitaries from 55 AU member countries at all AU summits. The publication is subsequently delivered throughout the African diaspora community within the United States, via African embassies in Washington, DC, to political, financial, and corporate leaders worldwide, as well as at leading continental and foreign direct investment conferences and seminars globally.

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CONTENTS FOREWORDS PRESIDENT PAUL KAGAME (RWANDA)

H.E. MOUSSA FAKI MAHAMAT

H.E. THOMAS KWESI QUARTEY

H.E. DR. ARIKANA CHIHOMBORI-QUAO

Chairperson of the African Union (Outgoing)

Chairperson of the African Union Commission

Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission

African Union Permanent Representative to the United States

The African Union The Berlin Conference (1884 –1885) and the Scramble for Africa................................................2 Colonialism: Africa’s Real Burden.......................................3 Pact for the Continuation of Colonization.........................4 The 11 Components of the French Colonial Tax Still in Force in Africa Today.........................................5 Africa’s Colonial History Affects Its Economic Development.....................................................6 Birth of the Organization of African Unity (OAU)..............7 Africa’s Women Join the Fight—Founding Mothers........8 Trevor Noah on Colonialism, Citizenship, and Identity......11 Trevor Noah Speaks: Transcript from The Daily Show..................................................................12

AU–EU Partnership, Beyond the Cotonou Agreement.......24 Directorate of Women, Gender & Development.............26

31st AU Summit, Mauritania.............................................14

African Continental Free Trade Area: Creating One African Market...........................................28

Big Win in Gender Parity..................................................16

Women: Backbone of Africa’s Economy..........................30

The Africa We Want: Agenda 2063..................................18

Assessing the African Women’s Decade (2010–2020).......32

AU and UN Strengthen Ties.............................................20

“Long Walk to Freedom”.................................................35

AU Launches New Fund for Peace and Security.............22

Africa, Taking Ownership of Her Narrative......................36

African Union Mission, Washington, DC AU Mission.........................................................................39 Deputy Chairman Quartey Visits Washington.................40 AU Mission on the Go—Select Events in 2018 (2nd Half)..............................................................................42 African Diaspora Young Leaders Summit........................44

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Contents

Invest in Africa Investing in Africa’s Girls and Women Yields Huge Dividends.................................................................49 African Diaspora Centers of Excellence..........................50 African Diaspora Investment and Savings Account Launched.............................................................53 Advancing Women Leaders in Africa...............................54 Youth—Key to Strengthening Africa’s Future..................58 Africa’s Pulse in Five Charts: Boosting Productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa...................................60 China—Friend or Foe?......................................................62 Ethiopia Sets Record with Historic Presidential Election, Moves Country in Positive Direction................66

17 Reasons Women Make Great Leaders........................76

Reformist Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Inspires Optimism..............................................................68

Intra-African Trade Fair to Drive Africa’s Development of Export Manufacturing...........................78

Africa Is on the Move........................................................72

Free Movement to Boost Trade and Investment............80

Rwanda Is Advancing Women Leadership......................74

Free Movement of People and Prosperity......................82

Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora 2019—Year of Return ........................................................84 Akátá Documentary...........................................................86 CIDO: A People-Centered Organization.........................88 Diaspora by the Numbers.................................................90 African Union Mission Hosts First-Ever Miss African Union Pageant......................................................93 Pan African Diaspora Association....................................96 Invest in Africa Managing Editor “Takes Africa” to Alma Mater.......................................................98 U.S. Government—Engaging Africa’s Young Leaders and Diaspora........................................ 100 Diaspora Mobilization: Diaspora Credit Union 2020........................................................... 102 Africans in Minnesota..................................................... 104

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Africa and U.S. Engagement Trump Administration’s New Africa Strategy............... 106 President Trump’s Non-Africa Strategy......................... 109 Trump, Kenyatta Commit to Expand U.S.–Kenya Economic Cooperation.............................. 110 Bilateral Meetings........................................................... 112 Africa & the United States Pursue Stronger Cooperation.................................................... 114 Melania Trump Visits Africa............................................ 116 African Trade Ministers Speak with One Voice on AGOA.............................................. 118 African Trade Ministers’ Recommendations................. 120 Corporate Council on Africa’s President and CEO Highlights AGOA’s Merits............................. 121 Sankofa............................................................................ 122

Representative Karen Bass Advocates for Africa......... 123 President Obama Invokes Mandela’s Values................ 124 @ U.S. Department of State, Bureau of African Affairs............................................................. 126

Washington News Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture Hosts Inaugural Film Festival................................................... 128 New African Ambassadors in Washington, DC............ 130 ATIGS 2018: Africa Trade and Investment Global Summit................................................................ 132 Farewell to Ambassador Bockarie Stevens: A Decade in Washington............................................... 135 The Kingdom of Morocco Opens New Embassy Building in Washington, DC.......................... 136 African Embassies Directory.......................................... 138

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Let us all unite and celebrate together The victories won for our liberation Let us dedicate ourselves to rise together To defend our liberty and unity

AFRICAN

UNION ANTHEM

O Sons and Daughters of Africa Flesh of the Sun and Flesh of the Sky Let us make Africa the Tree of Life Let us all unite and sing together To uphold the bonds that frame our destiny Let us dedicate ourselves to fight together For lasting peace and justice on earth O Sons and Daughters of Africa Flesh of the Sun and Flesh of the Sky Let us make Africa the Tree of Life Let us all unite and toil together To give the best we have to Africa The cradle of mankind and fount of culture Our pride and hope at break of dawn. O Sons and Daughters of Africa Flesh of the Sun and Flesh of the Sky Let us make Africa the Tree of Life

FOREWORD

PRESIDENT PAUL KAGAME (RWANDA) Chairperson of the African Union (Outgoing) Address to the 73rd UN General Assembly, New York September 25, 2018 I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

Foreword

e gather here and work together to make the United Nations more relevant to all people. The positive developments in Africa over the past year merit the United Nations’ attention.

Let me start with a paradox. In no other region is the sense of trans-national solidarity and unity so deeply felt as in Africa. The idea that our respective national identities stand in contradiction to Pan-Africanism is unheard of in our context. And yet, despite this unique civic endowment, Africa has too often stood out for division and dysfunction in practice. This left Africa unable to articulate and advance our common interests. We ceded responsibility for our future to others, not by force but by default. But times are changing rapidly, and so the management of Africa’s global position must also change. The trend on our continent is toward closer and more productive cooperation, both through the African Union and our Regional Economic Communities. The evident decline of old certainties and authorities is not bringing turbulence to Africa, as would have been the case, as of a previous era. On the contrary, the effect has been to focus Africa’s attention on the urgent need to get our house in order and fundamentally change how we do business. That is why the African Union initiated a major financial and institutional reform, more than three years ago. We are already seeing practical results. New financial discipline has produced an African Union budget that is 12 percent lower than last year. The share of funding supplied by Member States has also increased substantially. Contributions to the Peace Fund, which helps pay for African Union peace support operations, are at the highest level since its establishment in 1993. And earlier this year, the historic African Continental Free Trade Area was signed, which was the culmination of decades of effort. Once in force, Africa’s place in the global economic and trade architecture will be redefined. Economies of scale and higher levels of intra-African trade will help our continent attain the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. We will also

Times are changing rapidly, and so the management of Africa’s global position must also change. The trend on our continent is toward closer and more productive cooperation, both through the African Union and our Regional Economic Communities. In the years ahead, we look forward to deepening this important partnership between Africa and the United Nations to advance our shared agenda of peace and security, gender equality and women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and shared prosperity.

see new possibilities for public-private partnership with Africa’s growing private sector. This year also provided examples of regional security affairs and key political transitions being handled in a peaceful and forward-looking manner. More effective consultation and leadership is reducing the need for external mediation, and this is how it should be. The momentous developments in the Horn of Africa (Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and even Somalia) are the most remarkable. The region’s leaders deserve our full support, as they set aside decades of mistrust and work toward a comprehensive settlement. It is important for the United Nations Security Council to collaborate closely with the African Union to accompany this process of normalization. In Zimbabwe as well, the next stages on the country’s path of progress warrant steady encouragement from the international community. However, there are other situations in Africa, notably the Central African Republic, Libya, the Sahel, and South Sudan, where serious problems remain unresolved, despite so much potential. Africa and the world should come together and do what needs to be done to harmonize overlapping initiatives and ensure that agreements are respected. Peace and security are the foundation of economic and social well-being. Yesterday, we happily marked the centenary of Nelson Mandela’s birth with the Mandela Peace Summit. In that spirit, we are already set to embark on a new chapter in cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations

on the stable funding of African Unionmandated peace support operations. The resolution set to be introduced by Africa’s three Security Council members has the full backing of the African Union. This step will also align with the SecretaryGeneral’s new Action for Peacekeeping Initiative. This reflects, once again, that the dividend of a more focused and functional Africa benefits everyone. In this wider context of even stronger partnership between our institutions, it is important for the African Union’s diplomatic representation here at the United Nations to be accorded the status and weight enjoyed by other regional bodies. The theme for this year’s General Debate is Making the United Nations Relevant to all People. This requires a commitment to achieving real multilateralism, where it has too often been lacking. The current two‑track system of global governance is unsustainable. A few get to be the ones to define the norms by which others shall be judged. But standards that do not apply to everyone, equally, are not universal. Addressing this imbalance in the very foundation of our system is what will give shape to a revival of multilateral cooperation and renew the legitimacy of the international institutions that are so crucial to our planet’s future. In the years ahead, we look forward to deepening this important partnership between Africa and the United Nations to advance our shared agenda of peace and security, gender equality and women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and shared prosperity. I wish to end here by thanking you all for your kind attention.

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FOREWORD

H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson of the African Union Commission I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

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Foreword

s 2018 draws to a close, I would like, on behalf of the African Union (AU) Commission, to wish a happy and prosperous 2019 to all the citizens and leaders of the continent, as well as to the African diaspora around the world. The year 2018 was marked by further progress in the continental integration process. In January, in Addis Ababa, the Heads of State and Government launched the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The Extraordinary Summit held in March in Kigali saw the opening for signature of the Agreement on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. To date, 27 Member States have joined the SAATM. The Agreement on the AfCFTA has been signed by 49 Member States and has already been ratified by 14 of them, while the Free Movement Protocol, which garnered 32 signatures, has only one ratification. The Commission will intensify its efforts to ensure the early entry into force of these instruments and the accession of all Member States to the SAATM. It cannot be stressed enough how crucial integration is for the development of the continent and the fulfillment of its people’s aspiration to well-being. In this context, the Commission will continue to pay particular attention to the free movement of persons, as the persisting obstacles to our citizens’ movement within their own continent are simply unacceptable. I congratulate those Member States that have taken

measures to ease the procedures for the entry of African nationals into their territories, and urge those that have not yet done so to join this growing momentum. I am pleased to stress that, in February 2019, in Addis Ababa, at the 32nd Summit of our Union, the Commission will present, for adoption, guidelines on the design, production, and issuance of the African passport, the materialization of which will take us one step closer to the long-held dream of complete free movement across the continent.

scheme and research grants; culture; space development, with the ongoing work to operationalize the African Space Agency and the Earth Observation Program, which aims to help Member States better manage their natural resources; health and nutrition; livestock; environment; and agriculture. In February 2019, the AU, together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), will organize the first-ever international food

I would like, on behalf of the African Union (AU) Commission, to wish a happy and prosperous 2019 to all the citizens and leaders of the continent, as well as to the African diaspora around the world. The year 2018 was marked by further progress in the continental integration process.

Investment in infrastructure is an important aspect of continental integration. It is worth noting that 2018 saw the beginning of the development of the second phase of the Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA); the acceleration of the process toward the creation of the continental electricity market; and the operationalization of the African Renewable Energy Initiative. To mobilize the necessary political support for these initiatives and SAATM, I appointed a High Representative to follow up on them. The AU has continued to work in many other key areas. Thus, several activities were carried out in sectors as diverse as those of education, science, technology, and innovation, including through the Pan-African University, the academic mobility

safety conference in Addis Ababa, against the backdrop of significant progress in the implementation of the 2014 Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation in Africa. These programs are having a tangible impact on the continent's development and the livelihoods of its people. Their reinforcement and the need for better outreach to ensure they are more widely known will continue to engage the attention of the Commission. The quest for peace and security has been a major priority for our Union in 2018. It is all the more so as our leaders have solemnly pledged to do everything possible to silence the guns by 2020, by ending the wars and other acts of violence that continue to afflict different parts of our continent and cause untold suffering.

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Foreword Clearly, achieving this goal requires renewed efforts on the part of all our Member States, civil society, and other actors: peace is a global undertaking that requires the involvement of all. In the meantime, I note with satisfaction the progress made over the past months. Reconciliation between Eritrea and Ethiopia and other positive subsequent developments in the Horn of Africa have proved that peace is within reach when the required political will exists. I look forward to similar advances elsewhere on the continent, be it Burundi, as part of the region's action with the support of the AU and the larger international community; the Central African Republic, where we are endeavoring to relaunch the African Initiative for Peace and Reconciliation; Libya, with the intensification of efforts to convene, under the auspices of the AU and the United Nations, an all-inclusive national reconciliation conference; and Western Sahara, where the stalemate in the peace process has lasted for far too long. I urge the South Sudanese stakeholders to definitively close the sad chapter of the violence they inflicted on their own people and to resolutely move from the rhetoric of peace and reconciliation to its actual practice. I call for restraint and dialogue in Sudan, where the incidents that have occurred in recent days and the regrettable loss of life that has accompanied them are a source of concern. I renew the AU's willingness to accompany the Comoros to preserve the hard-won gains in the stabilization of the archipelago, in parallel with the search for a definitive solution to the issue of the

Comorian island of Mayotte on the basis of international legality and relevant AU decisions. I salute the efforts of African civilian and uniformed personnel deployed in peace support and counter-terrorism operations in different theaters. From Somalia to the Sahel through the Lake Chad Basin, their actions and the sacrifices made are admirable. More generally, the goal is to anchor peace and stability on the continent on a lasting basis. It is precisely in this perspective that efforts are being made to deepen the democratization processes, ensure respect for human rights, and combat corruption, which was the theme of the Summit for the year 2018, and, more generally, promote good governance. The Commission has, in 2018, observed fourteen presidential and legislative elections, including the recent elections in Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to assess the extent of their compliance with the relevant continental instrumentsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;some of these polls have benefited from AU technical assistance. The Commission has also continued to monitor the effective implementation of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. In February 2019, it will submit to the Summit a draft Protocol on Specific Aspects of the Right to Nationality and the Elimination of Statelessness in Africa. African solidarity, whether manifested among states or in favor of the most vulnerable, is one of the fundamental tenets of PanAfricanism. Several AU initiatives

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undertaken in 2018 have been driven by this principle, including the fight against the Ebola epidemic in the DRC, as was the case in West Africa in 2014, and against other diseases in different parts of the continent; support to Member States affected by the fall army worm disaster, which threatens the food and financial security of millions of agricultural producers; the repatriation, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration and the European Union (EU), of more than 30,000 African migrants stranded in Libya and the mobilization of the resources necessary for their reintegration into their countries of origin; and the support provided to countries emerging from conflicts and crises under the African Solidarity Initiative. In 2019, the theme of the Summit will be devoted to the plight of refugees, returnees, and displaced persons, with the aim of scaling up the continental response to this phenomenon. Whether it is to ensure development and integration, promote peace and security, or strengthen the foundations of good governance, the role of women and youth is central. It is therefore with renewed determination that efforts to promote gender equality and African youth empowerment will be pursued. The formation of parity governments in Ethiopia and Rwanda and, more generally, the progress made in gender mainstreaming are encouraging steps that need to be expanded. The appointment of an envoy and the establishment of an AU Advisory Council for the Youth are also part of this commitment to involve all segments of our people in the drive toward continental renewal.

Foreword The year 2018 was marked by repeated attacks against multilateralism and the institutions that emanate from it. Africa has con sistently expressed its concern over this situation, which is undermining the ability of the international community to meet the complex and multidimensional challenges it faces. The struggle for a more just world and greater solidarity, based on the scrupulous respect for international law, will remain a key priority for the continent. I welcome the continued deepening of the partnership between the AU and the United Nations, as demonstrated by the signing, in January 2018, of a Memorandum of Understanding on the implementation of Agendas 2063 and 2030, which complements the agreement concluded in April 2017 in the area of peace and security, as well as by the joint actions undertaken in the field by the AU Commission and the United Nations Secretariat. Likewise, I welcome the progress made in the relationship with the EU as part of the follow-up to the November 2017 Abidjan Summit, and look forward to the successful holding of the Afro-Arab Summit in 2019 in Saudi Arabia. At the same time, the AU will remain resolute in the fight against xenophobia and racism, which are manifest in migration policies in some parts of the world and whose rise is one of the facets of unilateralism. In this regard, the AU reaffirms its full support for the Global Compact on

Migration agreed to in Marrakesh, Morocco, this month. This is the overall context in which the institutional reform process of our Union is unfolding. The aim is to ensure that the Union is fit for purpose, can better meet the expectations of African countries and peoples, and ensure that Africa speaks with one voice on the world stage. Major milestones have been set in this regard, particularly in terms of financial autonomy, working methods, and coordination with the Regional Economic Communities, with the first coordination meeting planned for June 2019, in Niamey. Measures have also been taken to strengthen the representation of women and young people, with the introduction of quotas for these categories for all posts at the AU level. Similarly, the the NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) Agency has evolved into an AU Development Agency.

are still fraught with difficulties. Poverty and misery are the daily lot of hundreds of millions of people even though the continent is endowed with wealth and talent. The voice of Africa on the international stage is still insufficiently taken into account, while the continent represents more than a quarter of the membership of the United Nations. With Agenda 2063, Africa has developed a roadmap that clearly articulates the path forward for its emergence. The year 2019 offers the opportunity to move faster to break the multiple chains that hinder the actualization of Africa's rich potential. From this point of view, nothing is more decisive than the deepening of continental unity. As I have pointed out many times, with unity we are everything; without it we are nothing.

This process will continue in 2019. Particular emphasis will be placed in this regard on the streamlining of the organs of the Union, the reform of the Commission, and the development of a new scale of assessment for the AU budget.

The 19th of February 2019 will mark the centenary of the Pan-African Congress, which took place in Paris and laid the foundation stone for the creation of the Organization of African Unity. May this centenary further raise awareness and strengthen the will for a stronger mobilization in a way commensurate with today’s exigencies.

The year 2018 has certainly seen significant progress, for which the continent can take legitimate pride, but many challenges persist. Conflicts and violence remain a reality that affects the lives of large segments of the African population. The democratization processes and the promotion of good governance

In conclusion, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President Paul Kagame for the dynamism with which he chairs our Union and for his constant support to the Commission. I look forward to working with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who will chair our Union from next February.

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FOREWORD

H.E. Thomas Kwesi Quartey Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

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am extremely pleased that our Mission in Washington, DC, has dedicated this edition of Invest in Africa to “The African Woman.” In view of the African Union’s (AU) commitment to the African Women’s Decade (2010–2020), this dedication could not be more timely. I feel privileged to be able to join the call to Africa, Africa’s stakeholders, and the global community to invest in Africa’s girls and women. It can only be for the common good of the entire world. Women are truly unique. Women are nature’s only means for the continuity of the human race. Their make-up and contributions to human life and society are enormous. Any community that honors women and makes women’s needs a priority demonstrates a mature level of social understanding. Africa is to be congratulated for making women’s issues a priority. When the African Union Heads of State and Government launched The African Women’s Decade in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2010, they sought to accelerate the implementation of the Dakar, Beijing, and AU Assembly Decisions on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE), through a grassroots participation model. Today, eight years later, this goal remains unchanged. We are executing it at a faster pace. 2020 is less than a year away. Clearly, there is work to be done. Time is of the essence. Here at the Commission, we are concentrating our best efforts on a number of themes to give our mothers, our sisters, and our daughters the edge they need to advance and prosper in the twenty-first century. These themes are poverty eradication, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, agriculture, food security, health, maternal mortality, and HIV/AIDS. It also includes education, science, technology, climate change, peace, security, and violence against women. Governance, legal

I am extremely pleased that our Mission in Washington, DC, has dedicated this edition of Invest in Africa to “The African Woman.” I feel privileged to be able to join the call to Africa, Africa’s stakeholders, and the global community to invest in Africa’s girls and women. It can only be for the common good of the entire world.

protection, finance, gender-focused budgets, women in decision-making, and male and female youth mentoring remain key issues. What remains is to follow through in executing these themes. Our collective dream of becoming a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa is in sight. A notable achievement of the AU Commission is gender parity at the highest level of our organization. Today, five of our top ten officials are women. They are no less capable than their male counterparts. These women (Commissioners) drive the continental agenda for Political Affairs; Infrastructure & Energy; Human Resources, Science, & Technology; Rural Economy & Agriculture; and Social Affairs. I know them personally. We work together. They make us proud. Our goal is to encourage and replicate such inclusiveness in member states. I applaud Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Madagascar for leading the way. Gender parity spurs development. Gender matters a great deal. Africa cannot afford the cost of not embracing it. Failure to fully incorporate gender in planning neglects human capacity of more than 50 percent of our population. That would be a tragedy we can ill afford. The African Union’s push for gender equality across the continent is consistent with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To ensure that it is comprehensively woven into the fabric of the African Union Commission and member

states, our pursuit of gender parity has now been institutionalized. The Directorate for Women, Gender & Development promotes gender equality in Africa and within the AU. It designs programs and projects based on policies adopted by AU member states. It also oversees the development and harmonization of gender-related policies. It initiates gender-mainstreaming strategies within the Commission, the AU organs, and member states. It supports capacity building by providing training on gender policies. The Directorate has two divisions: Gender Policy & Development Division (GPDD) and Gender Coordination and Outreach (GC ). It is the Secretariat for the African Union Women’s Committee (AUWC). This intricate infrastructure for women and women’s affairs is evidence of the African Union Commission’s unwavering commitment to prosperity through inclusion. As we approach 2020, the year of accountability for women’s issues, I call on everyone to adhere to our guiding principles to achieve our common goal. In matters of our women and our continent, let us continue to allocate enough resources for the programs and activities. Let us safeguard the gains so far made by our women and our daughters and continue to support gender equality and women empowerment. To educate a girl, you educate a family, a nation, and a whole continent. “Africa Must Unite.” Kwame Nkrumah

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FOREWORD

H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao African Union Permanent Representative to the United States

Foreword

Welcome to Invest in Africa 2019, a magazine about Africa, by Africans. This edition is proudly dedicated to African women. As the African Women’s Decade (2010–2020) approaches its finish line, it is only fitting that we spotlight our women and refocus our conversation on them and their role not only in society but in the overall development of Africa.

elcome to Invest in Africa 2019, a magazine about Africa by Africans. This edition is proudly dedicated to African women. Greater representation of women, youth, and children is consistent with a key tenet of the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063—a prosperous and inclusive Africa. As the African Women’s Decade (2010– 2020) approaches its finish line, it is only fitting that we spotlight our women and refocus our conversation on them and their role not only in society but in the overall development of Africa. As Africans, we are inheritors of an amazing continent, endowed with everything and anything Africa and the rest of the world will ever need. We are indeed the world’s richest resource basket. No wonder all the other continents feed off our natural and human resources. Mother Africa has everything she needs to develop. The only missing ingredient is her children in the Diaspora. Together with our brothers and sisters on the continent, we can unleash Africa’s economic power of immeasurable proportions. All we have to do is UNITE!!! As the African Union Permanent Representative to the United States, one critical role I have in my overall mandate is to promote Africa in the Americas and mobilize the African Diaspora to participate in the development of Africa.

The African Union defines the African Diaspora—the sixth region—as all people of African descent living outside Africa. This sixth region is as significant and as important as the other five regions, which are North Africa, West Africa, East Africa,

Central Africa, and Southern Africa. The AU feels very strongly that its children in the Diaspora must come back home. The rapid evolution of technology has afforded Africa the opportunity to engage more efficiently not only internally but also externally with the rest of the world. This new opportunity provides endless possibilities for effective growth through dialogue, integration, trade and investment, and cooperation, and we must seize this moment. Thanks to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment, signed in March 2018, in Kigali, Rwanda, the borders which have been imposed upon us since the Berlin Conference must be abolished. Africa must become a united continent that speaks with one voice. We must overcome the legacy of colonization, and that starts with a conversation with the image in the mirror. Recognizing the importance of its children who are recently and historically displaced, the AU has declared 2019 the Year of the Internally Displaced People. To discharge our mandate at the AU Mission in Washington, DC, we have embarked on several projects with the main one being the African Diaspora Centers of Excellence, also known as Wakanda One. There will be five such centers, one in each region. Each center of excellence will be a growth point that will spark development throughout the region. It will consist of the following:

1. A 1,000-bed teaching hospital 2. A university 3. A technical college 4. A minimum of three 5-star hotels 5. A pharmaceutical manufacturing plant 6. A power plant 7. An agricultural farm 8. Housing and infrastructure to support the development These will all be funded and managed by the African Diaspora in collaboration with their brothers and sisters on the continent. As a means of funding these developments, the African Diaspora Savings and Investment Account with Industrial Bank, with a concerted goal of raising 1 billion dollars in the next two years, was officially launched on December 20, 2018, at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor hotel in Maryland. Once our target of 1 billion dollars is reached, we will work with established Diaspora Investment Financial Advisors (DIFA) to leverage these funds for the purposes of financing the development and finalization of Wakanda One. The pathway back to Africa has therefore been paved, and the Diaspora no longer have excuses for not investing in Africa. This is how we go back home, this is how we say 400 years is too long. African women have made notable strides in several areas; however, there is still more work to be done. In this edition of Invest in Africa, I call on African leaders, institutions, and stakeholders to make investing in Africa’s women and girls a priority. This year, 2019, let’s ensure that women’s inclusion in all spheres of African life remains central to our continental agenda for growth and development. I thank Chairman H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, the 55 African Heads of State, the 1.27 billion Africans on the continent, as well as the African Diaspora around the globe for recognizing the importance of being one Africa, one continent, that speaks with one voice.

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AFRICAN WOMEN RISING

Women Ambassadors to the African Union; H.E. Dlamini Zuma, Special Envoy for Women, Peace & Security; AU Commissioners & Directors with President Sahle Work Zewde of Ethiopia (Center) November 21, 2018â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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THE BERLIN CONFERENCE (1884–1885) AND THE SCRAMBLE FOR AFRICA WHAT

COUNTRIES

CONSEQUENCES

he Berlin Conference of 1884–1885, also known as the Congo Conference or West Africa Conference, regulated European colonization and trade in Africa during the New Imperialism period and coincided with Germany’s sudden emergence as an imperial power.

The countries represented at the time included Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden-Norway (unified from 1814–1905), Turkey, and the United States of America. Although the United States participated in the conference and signed the General Act, it did not pursue ratification due to changes in domestic politics.

The primary way in which the Berlin Conference affected Africa was by chopping it up into areas that would be colonized by various European countries. Before the Berlin Conference, most of Africa was still in the hands of Africans. Europeans had only colonized coastal areas. However, this was changing. At the conference, the European countries divided up essentially all of Africa. It was one of the defining moments of African history for a number of reasons, the most important being that it changed (for the worse) the political boundaries of Africa. Colonial governments and economies were set up to help the Europeans, not the Africans.

WHY The Berlin Conference was convened between European nations to create rules on how to peacefully divide Africa for colonization. It was convened by Portugal but led by Otto von Bismarck, chancellor of the newly united Germany.

THE UNINVITED GUESTS The African people; there was no political leader, delegate, or ambassador from Africa at the Berlin Conference.

The primary way in which the Berlin Conference affected Africa was by chopping it up into areas that would be colonized by various European countries.

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The African Union

COLONIALISM: AFRICA’S REAL BURDEN Colonialism as an enduring stain on Africa’s history and economic oppression continue to exist 134 years after the Berlin Conference. Africa now demands fair treatment. By 1900, much of Africa had been colonized by seven European powers— Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

ot very many people fully understand the long-term effects colonialism has on Africa in the 21st century. A brief history of Africa’s colonization puts the continent’s current state into proper perspective, and helps one understand what the continent needs to overcome. By 1900, much of Africa had been colonized by seven European powers—Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and Italy. After the conquest of African decentralized and centralized states, the European powers set about establishing colonial state systems. Those systems remain in full force to this day, and Africa needs to confront them in order to move forward. BRITAIN

FRANCE

GERMANY

BELGIUM

SPAIN

PORTUGAL

ITALY

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PACT FOR THE CONTINUATION OF COLONIZATION The Colonial Pact Agreement (pact for the continuation of colonization) enshrined a number of special preferences for France in the political, commercial, and defense processes of France’s former colonies. It bound the economies of Africa to the control of France. France, just one of Africa’s colonizers, continues to thrive on the practice. France extracts approximately 500 billion dollars from African countries each year.

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The African Union

The 11 Components of the French Colonial Tax Still in Force in Africa Today 1. Colonial debt for the benefits of France colonization The newly “independent” countries should pay for the infrastructure built by France in the country during colonization. 2. Automatic confiscation of national reserves The African countries should deposit their national monetary reserves into France’s Central Bank. France has been holding the national reserves of fourteen African countries since 1961: Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Togo, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. The monetary policy governing such a diverse aggregation of countries is operated by the French Treasury, without reference to the central fiscal authorities of any of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) or the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) states. Under the terms of the agreement which set up these banks and the CFA, the central bank of each African country is obliged to keep at least 65 percent of its foreign exchange reserves in an “operations account” held at the French Treasury, as well as another 20 percent to cover financial liabilities. 3. Right of first refusal on any raw or natural resource discovered in the country

France has the first right to buy any natural resources found in the land of its ex-colonies. It is only after France says, “I’m not interested,” that the African countries are allowed to seek other partners. 4. Priority to French interests and companies in public procurement and public bidding

military facilities in those countries, run entirely by the French. 7. Obligation to make French the official language of the country and the language for education Oui, Monsieur. Vous devez parlez français, la langue de Molière! 8. Obligation to use France colonial money—CFA

In the award of government contracts, French companies must be considered first, and only after that could these countries look elsewhere. It doesn’t matter if the African countries can obtain better value for money elsewhere.

The CFA franc was created by France in the late 1940s to serve as a legal tender in its thenAfrican colonies and is one of the most prominent signs of France’s continued influence over its former colonies.

As a consequence, in many of the French ex-colonies, all the major economic assets of the countries are in the hands of French expatriates.

That’s the real milk cow for France. It is such an unfair system, even denounced by the European Union, but France is not ready to move from that colonial system which adds about 500 billion dollars from Africa to its treasury.

5. Exclusive right to supply military equipment and train the country’s military officers Through a sophisticated scheme of scholarships, grants, and “Defense Agreements” attached to the Colonial Pact, the Africans must send their senior military officers for training in France or French-run training facilities. 6. Right for France to pre-deploy troops and intervene militarily in the country to defend its interests Under “Defense Agreements” attached to the Colonial Pact, France has the legal right to intervene militarily in the African countries and also to station troops permanently in bases and

9. Obligation to send France an annual balance and reserve report Without the report, there is no money. 10. Renunciation to enter into military alliance with any other country unless authorized by France France forbids its former colonies from seeking other military alliances except the one it offers them. 11. Obligation to ally with France in situations of war or global crisis Over one million African soldiers fought for the defeat of Nazism and fascism during the Second World War. Source: African Heritage

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AFRICA’S COLONIAL HISTORY AFFECTS ITS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Neocolonialism, postmodern imperialism, or neo-imperialism is the practice of using capitalism, globalization and cultural imperialism to influence a developing country in lieu of direct military control (imperialism) or indirect political control (hegemony).

Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Used in the context of African countries undergoing decolonization in the 1960s.

“There is absolutely nothing wrong with a continued relationship between Africa and her former colonizers; all Africa demands is fairness.” —The African Union

he African economy was significantly changed by the Atlantic slave trade through the process of imperialism and the economic policies that accompanied colonization. Prior to the “Scramble for Africa,” or the official partition of Africa by the major European nations, African economies were advancing in every area, particularly in the area of trade. The development of colonialism and the partition of Africa by the European colonial powers arrested the natural development of the African economic system. The aim of colonialism was to exploit the physical, human, and economic resources of an area to benefit the colonizing nation. European powers pursued this goal by encouraging the development of a commodity-based trading system, a cash crop agriculture system, and by building a trade network linking the total economic output of a region to the demands of the colonizing state. The imposition of colonialism on Africa altered its history forever. African modes of thought, patterns of cultural development, and ways of life were forever impacted by the change in political structure brought about by colonialism. The establishment of colonial rule over Africa reinforced Africa’s commodity export growth. Colonial control facilitated the construction of railways, induced large inflows of European investment, and forced profound changes in the operation of labor and land markets.

The Industrial Revolution Africa’s commercial transition was inextricably connected to the rising demand for industrial inputs from the industrializing core in the North Atlantic. Revolutions in transportation (railways, steamships), a move toward liberal trade policies in Europe, and increasing rates of GDP growth enhanced demand for (new) manufactures, raw materials, and tropical cash crops. African producers responded to this demand by increasing exports of vegetable oils (palm oil, groundnuts), gum, ivory, gold, hides, and skins. Palm oil, a key export, was highly valued as a lubricant for machinery and an ingredient in food and soap. During and after the scramble, the range of commodity exports broadened to include raw materials like rubber, cotton, and copper, as well as cash crops such as cocoa, coffee, tea, and tobacco. The lion’s share of these commodities went directly to manufacturing firms and consumers in Europe.

The Way Forward While the legacy of colonialism is real and partly accounts for Africa’s condition today, Africa needs to strike the right balance between managing that legacy sixty years later and developing models of governance to develop and progress.

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The African Union

BIRTH OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AFRICAN UNITY (OAU) The Organization of African Unity was founded to undo the results of the Berlin Conference.

BIRTH OF THE AU

The African Union today continues with the unfinished business of the OAU.

n May 25, 1963, the 32 African states that had achieved independence agreed to establish the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The OAU’s main objectives, as set out in the OAU charter, were to promote the unity and solidarity of African states; coordinate and intensify their cooperation and efforts to achieve a better life for the peoples of Africa; safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states; rid the continent of colonization and apartheid; promote international cooperation within the United Nations framework; and harmonize members’ political, diplomatic, economic, educational, cultural, health, welfare, scientific, technical, and defense policies.

The African Union is: • “Decolonizing” Africa • Facilitating African Unity—One Africa, One Continent, One Voice • Promoting Continental Free Trade • Promoting Free Movement of People • Promoting a Single African Air Transport Market (One Sky) • Enforcing Gender Parity • Executing Agenda 2063 Through the 1990s, leaders debated the need to amend the OAU’s structures to reflect the challenges of a changing world. In 1999, the OAU Heads of State and Government issued the Sirte Declaration calling for the establishment of a new African Union. The vision for the Union was to build on the OAU’s work by establishing a body that could accelerate the process of integration in Africa; support the empowerment of African states in the global economy; and address the multifaceted social, economic, and political problems facing the continent. A significant number of OAU structures were carried forward into the AU. Similarly, many of the OAU’s core commitments, decisions, and strategy frameworks continue to frame AU policies.

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AFRICA’S WOMEN JOIN THE FIGHT —FOUNDING MOTHERS

he Pan-African Women’s Organization (PAWO) was founded on July 31, 1962 (a year before the founding of the Organization of African Unity, now African Union), by the first Conference of African Women in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. PAWO is Africa’s first and oldest collective women’s organization established to “unite all African women’s organizations into a single platform to share good practices, promote human rights with a view to eliminating any forms of

discrimination against women, support Africa’s liberation, and promote the full integration of African women in the economic, social, and political development of the continent.” Through PAWO, the AU established strong policy commitments such as the Parity Principle, which led to the appointment of the first female Chairperson of the AU Commission, as well as the Maputo Protocol on Women’s Rights, among others, which

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give voice and space for women to actively participate in the affairs of the Union. PAWO contributed to sustaining women’s struggle for their freedom beyond the attainment of political independence. PAWO offers a national, continental, and global opportunity to recall and affirm the significant role of African women in the evolution of a strong Pan-African identity, with shared values, objectives, and vision for the future. The

The African Union

organization is recognized and celebrated across capitals of AU member states, with national programs and different activities. On November 15, 2012, UNESCO celebrated the 50th anniversary of the oldest African women’s organization with Ms. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, as the guest of honor at the event. Transformation of PAWO into a Specialized Agency of the AU During the 28th Ordinary Session of the African Heads of State and Government held in January 2017, PAWO was conferred the status of a Specialized Agency of the AU by Assembly Decision 621 (XXVIII). The Women, Gender & Development Directorate (WGDD) is the lead entity within the AU Commission to support the operationalization of PAWO into a specialized agency and to continue the strong partnership it has built over the years, through joint programming and financial support. At its founding, the objectives of PAWO were defined as follows: • To prosecute the struggle for recognition and application of the right of African women to participate in decisionmaking in the fields of political, economic, cultural, and social life, both at national and international levels and particularly, to be able to express their opinion

PAWO Leaders Meeting in Dar es Salaam—1962

in bills envisaging the welfare of women and children being debated in parliament. • To follow up the evolution and contribute to the improvement of the situation of African women by collecting data on the economic, political, and sociocultural aspects on women and children in member countries and disseminate the results of research undertaken in these fields by PAWO or by member countries through documents and the existing media. • To support action taken at national and international levels aimed at eliminating the flagrant violation of human rights.

• To support governments in the protection of Africa in all aspects. • To promote the effective unity among African states through friendship and cooperation. • To establish continuous relations of friendship and cooperation between Africa and women all over the world. • To support the internal cooperation and participate in all actions for disarmament and reinforcement of peace worldwide. With various issues affecting women throughout the African continent, the organization aims to solve political, economic, social, and cultural problems of women in Africa.

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TREVOR NOAH ON COLONIALISM, CITIZENSHIP, AND IDENTITY A Response to the French Ambassador’s Letter

Why is that duality is only afforded to a select group of people, why can they not be African? . . . So, what they’re arguing here is, in order to be French, you have to erase everything that is African? . . . So, you cannot be French and African at the same time.

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TREVOR NOAH SPEAKS

Transcript from The Daily Show

wanted to share this little story with you.

[Audience laughing]

France is indeed . . .” Now that line right there is interesting— the rich and various backgrounds of these players is a reflection of France’s diversity. Now, I’m not trying to be an ------- [expletive], but I think it’s more a reflection of France’s colonialism.

I know - the French Government.

[audience cheering and applauding]

So what happened was, let’s start at the beginning. France won the World Cup.

Because it’s not like it’s just like random players, like they all have something in common. Like all of those players, if you trace their lineage, you’re like how did you guys become French? Like how did your family start speaking French? Oh, okay, alright.

I got into a little bit of trouble with the French Government.

[audience cheering and applauding] And so on the show, we celebrated that and I had this joke where I said Africa won the World Cup [audience cheering and applauding] Yeah, and I was shocked at how angry a lot of French people got; like genuine, a lot of French people were angry and they were like, “Oh Trevor how can you say this, why would you say these things? You know! This is horrible.” [audience laug hing to Mr. Noah’s French accent] And I was like okay, I get it. Not everyone likes every joke that I tell and I get that. But this was interesting. I got a letter from the ambassador of France and I’ll read it to you. It was about that joke. And he says—I’ll try to read it how I hope he wrote it. [audience laughing] which was . . . he says (In a French accent)—“Sir I watched with great attention your July 17th show when you spoke of the victory of the French team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Russia final which took place last Sunday. I heard your words about an African victory. Nothing could be less true.” [audience laughing] Now first of all, I think that it could have been less, I could have said that they were Scandinavian. [audience laughing] That would have been less true, that would have been less true. He says, (In a French accent)—“As many of the players have already stated themselves, their parents may have come from another country, but the great majority of them—all but 2 out of 23—were born in France. They were educated in France, they learned to play soccer in France, they are French citizens. They are proud of their country—France. The rich and various backgrounds of these players is a reflection of France’s diversity. [audience laughing]

[audience laughing] And it says here, he says (In a French accent) “France is indeed a cosmopolitan country but every citizen is part of the French identity and together they belong to the nation of France. Unlike in the United States of America, France does not refer to its citizens based on their race, religion, or origin. To us, there is no hyphenated identity. Roots are an individual reality. By calling them an African team it seems you are denying their Frenchness. This, even in jest, legitimizes the ideology which claims whiteness as the only definition of being French.” So now, here’s the thing. First things first. I understand what he’s saying ‘cause I read up on this afterwards, right? I take criticism. I’ll listen to what somebody says to me, you know. I genuinely believe you should, and what it turns out is, in France, a lot of like Nazis in that country use the fact that these players are of African descent to s*** on their Frenchness, you know. So they go “you’re not French, you’re from Africa. Go back to where you came from, you’re not French.” They use that as a line of attack. Now, my thing, my opinion is, coming from South Africa, coming from Africa and even watching the World Cup in the United States of America, black people all over the world were celebrating the Africanness of the French players— right? Not in a negative way but rather in a positive way, going, “look at these Africans who can become French.” You know what I mean; it’s a celebration of that achievement. And so this is what I find weird in these arguments is that people go “they’re not African, they’re French.” Then I’m like, why can’t they be both? [audience applauding] Right, why is it that duality only afforded to a select group of people, why can they not be African? So what they’re arguing here is, in order to be French, you have to erase everything that is African? ‘Cause what do they mean when they say that our culture, our this . . . So you cannot be French and African at the same time which I vehemently disagree with. I go, you

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The African Union

see those players, I love them—Paul Pogba, N’Goloe Kante, I’ve watched all of them. Like, I love those players and I love how African they are and how French they are. I don’t take their Frenchness away but I also don’t think you need to take their Africanness away, you know. And that is what I love about America. America is not a perfect country but what I love about this place is that people can still celebrate their identity in their Americanness. You can go to a St. Patrick’s Day parade in America celebrating that you are Irish. You can go to a Puerto Rican Day parade in America still celebrating the fact that you are Puerto Rican and American at the same time. You can celebrate Juneteenth as a black person and be like “yo, I’m African American,” which is the duality of the two worlds. But here they’re going, “No, you are only French.” [audience laughing] And here’s why it vexes me, to be honest. This is what I find interesting, is like, when I read stories from Africa and when I watch what politicians say—especially in France— about African migrants: when they are unemployed, when they may commit a crime, or when they are considered “unsavory,” it’s the African immigrant. When their children go on to provide a World Cup victory for France, we should only refer to them as France. And we even saw it with that African man who climbed the building to rescue the baby. Do you remember that? We watched him climb that building, he rescued the child, and then they gave him French citizenship. They said, you are now French. So now I’m going, so is he now no longer African? [audience laughing] Is that what you’re saying? So when he was on the ground, he was African. [audience laughing] And then he climbed up and as soon as he rescued the baby, now he’s French. [audience laughing] So if he dropped the baby, the African dropped the baby. [audience applauding and cheering] Like, I don’t believe that you need, and here’s like I would say again with respect, I understand what the ambassador is saying. I’m not joining the attack, and I know, don’t get me wrong, I know. We live in a world where like nuance is something that is in short supply. And so you will find, you know, in America for instance, the alt-right saying, “That’s what we’ve been saying, they’re not French and we’re

The Statue of LIBERTY in New York is a gift from the People of France to the People of the United States saying it, but if Trevor says it, it’s not racist, but if we say it it’s racist?” Like yeah, yeah. I will say yeah. You know why? [audience laughing] Because I believe context is everything. There are certain things that you can say to somebody that like, when I say to my friends, “what’s going on my nigga?” and if a white person came and said the same thing, yeah, there’s a big difference. [audience laughing] When I say they’re Africa, I’m not saying it as a way to exclude them from their Frenchness but I’m rather using it to include them in my Africanness. I’m saying, “I see you my French brother of African descent.” Do you know what I’m saying? That’s what I’m trying to say. When somebody else says it the other way.. You can use the same line in different ways. People are like, “so it’s different?” Yeah, yeah, it’s different. It can be different. It’s like somebody saying oh “So if you play with your naked child it’s not a problem, but if I do it I’m a pedophile?” Yeah, yeah. There’s a big difference. [audience applauding and cheering]. There’s a huge difference. [audience clapping] So I will continue to praise them for being African, because I believe that they are of Africa, their parents are from Africa, and they can be French at the same time. And If French people are saying they cannot be both, then I think that they have a problem, and not me. [audience applauding and cheering] Transcribed from the Daily Show with Trevor Noah https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COD9hcTpGWQ

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31AU SUMMIT, MAURITANIA st

ONE AFRICA, ONE CONTINENT, ONE VOICE The Agenda • • • • • • • •

“Decolonizing” Africa African Unity Gender Parity Free Trade Free Movement of People Common Passport Single Sky Agenda 2063

“ Towards a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa”

Key Decisions and Declarations AFRICAN CONTINENTAL FREE TRADE AREA (AfCFTA) 49 of the 55-member states of the African Union (AU) have now signed the agreement establishing the AfCFTA and six countries have ratified it.

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INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS The Assembly requested the finalization of the proposals and recommendations based on the initial findings of the Pan African Parliament; the Peace and Security Council; the African Court on Human and People’s Rights; the African Commission on Human

The African Union

and People’s Rights; the African Peer Review Mechanism; and the Advisory Board on Corruption. WINNING THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION In line with the 2018 theme, the Assembly encouraged member states to combat illicit financial flows, strengthen their national anticorruption agencies, and invest in the demographic dividend amongst other measures.

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE AFRICAN UNION DEVELOPMENT AGENCY The Assembly approved the establishment of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA) as the technical body of the AU, and requested the AU Commission, in consultation with the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Planning and Implementation Agency, to develop a statute for AUDA and submit it for adoption at the January 2019 summit. PEACE AND SECURITY IN AFRICA • South Sudan: The Assembly reaffirmed its support for the imposition of punitive measures

against those obstructing efforts to achieve reconciliation and peace in the country. • Ethiopia & Eritrea: The Assembly commended commitments and progress made on the implementation of the Algiers Agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea and reaffirmed its commitment to support the two countries in their efforts to normalize relations. • Somalia: The Assembly welcomed the Somalia Transition Plan as a sound basis for the country to realize durable peace. THEME FOR 2019 The year 2019 was designated as the “Year of Refugees, Returnees, and Internally Displaced Persons in Africa: Towards Durable Solutions to Forced Displacement.”

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BIG WIN IN GENDER PARITY

5 OF

THE AU’S

10 TOP

OFFICIALS ARE

WOMEN

he African Union Commission (AUC) is the Secretariat of the Union entrusted with executive functions. It is composed of 10 Officials— a Chairperson, a Deputy Chairperson, eight (8) Commissioners—and staff members. The African Union Executive Council elects the eight commissioners and the Assembly appoints them. Appointments are declared during the Assembly Summit following the Executive Council elections. Commissioners serve for 4 years, and their tenure is renewable only once (Commission Statutes, Article 10). The process leading to an AUC Commissioner appointment is extremely competitive.

H.E. Agbor Sarah Mbi Enow Anyang (Cameroon) Commissioner for Human Resources, Science, and Technology

Department of Human Resources, Science, and Technology Coordinates all AU programs on human resource development and promotes science and technology by encouraging and providing technical support to member states in the implementation of policies and programs.

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H.E. Amani Abou-Zeid (Egypt) Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy

Department of Infrastructure and Energy Ensures the development of infrastructure and energy resources at the regional and continental levels. Promotes, coordinates, implements, and monitors programs and policies on transport, energy, telecommunication, and information in collaboration with the regional economic communities (RECs) and AU specialized institutions and agencies.

The African Union

H.E. Cessouma Minata Samate (Burkina Faso) Commissioner for Political Affairs

H.E. Amira El Fadil (Sudan) Commissioner for Social Affairs

H.E Sacko Josefa Leonel Correa (Angola) Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture

Department of Political Affairs

Department of Social Affairs

Department of Rural Economy andÂ Agriculture

Provides oversight and strategies for continental and regional political matters, and implements all decisions, policies, and programs relating to political affairs.

Plays a leadership role in ensuring the overall coherence of social development programs and promotes, monitors, and evaluates associated policies and strategies.

Works with RECs to boost AU member statesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rural economic development and agricultural productivity by supporting the adoption of measures, strategies, policies, and programs on agriculture.

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THE AFRICA WE WANT

AGENDA 2063

he African Union’s Agenda 2063 is a concrete and implementable framework with a clear vision, 7 aspirations, 20 goals, and 39 priority areas. There are also targets and indicators. These aspirations, goals, and priority areas enable effective results‑based management.

The African Union

THE AFRICAN ASPIRATIONS FOR 2063 1. A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development 2. An integrated continent, politically united, based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance 3. An Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice, and the rule of law 4. A peaceful and secure Africa 5. An Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values, and ethics

6. An Africa whose development is peopledriven, relying on the potential offered by people, especially its women, youth, and caring for children 7. An Africa as a strong, united, resilient, and influential global player and partner. These seven African aspirations were derived through a consultative process with the African citizenry. They reflect Africans’ desire for shared prosperity and well-being; for unity and integration; for a continent of free citizens and expanded horizons where the full potential of women and youth, boys and girls are realized; and for freedom from fear, disease, and want.

Nairobi by night: Photo courtesy of TAP/The Mentalyst

AU AND UN STRENGTHEN TIES

UN Secretary General António Guterres and AU Commission Chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat after signing the Joint Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security UN Headquarters, New York

The African Union is the United Nations’ most important strategic partner working together toward regional peace and security, development, and human rights.

António Guterres UN Secretary-General I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

The African Union

he African Union and the United Nations have prioritized the development of a systematic, predictable, and strategic partnership, based on mutual respect, shared values, and comparative advantage. The two organizations signed the Joint Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security in April 2017, and the Joint Framework for Implementation of Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in January 2018. The partnership has since been characterized by closer collaboration, more regular exchange of

information and consultations, and coordinated action including joint field visits and joint statements. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a collection of 17 global goals set by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The SDGs are part of Resolution 70/1 of the United Nations General Assembly: “Transforming our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” (2030 Agenda). Building on the principle of “leaving no one behind,” the new agenda emphasizes a holistic approach to achieving sustainable development for all.

AU AGENDA 2063 In Sync With UN 2030 Agenda UN Goals for 2030 include the following: 1. No poverty 2. Zero hunger 3. Good health and well-being 4. Quality education 5. Gender equality 6. Clean water and sanitation 7. Affordable and clean energy 8. Decent work and economic growth 9. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure 10. Reduced inequalities 11. Sustainable cities and communities 12. Responsible production and consumption 13. Climate action 14. Life below water 15. Life on land 16. Peace, justice, and strong institutions 17. Partnerships for the goals

A stronger partnership between the United Nations and the African Union is not a choice but a necessity in tackling today’s complex peace and security challenges in Africa.

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AU LAUNCHES NEW FUND FOR PEACE AND SECURITY This journey began in 2015, within the framework of the AU Assembly’s decision to enhance overall financial autonomy. In this regard, the AU Assembly decided to finance 25 percent of the AU’s operational peace and security activities. In 2016, the AU Assembly, translated the 25 percent commitment into a decision to establish a $400 million member state endowment. The revitalized Peace Fund is the instrument through which these funds will be managed. Since 2017, our member states have contributed $60 million to the Peace Fund. We expect to arrive at the full endowment level in 2021. The AU Policy Organs endorsed an enhanced governance and management structure to ensure the Fund is managed to the highest standards and in line with best practice.

H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat AU Commission Chairman

Background

he Peace Fund was originally established in 1993 as the principal financing instrument for the peace and security activities of the Organization for African Unity. Following the establishment of the African Union, the Peace Fund became one of the five pillars of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). The overall legal basis for the Peace Fund is set out in Article 22 of the Protocol on the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council. In July 2016, the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government decided to endow the Peace Fund with $400 million in member state contributions to be drawn from the 0.2 percent levy that has been instituted to finance the overall African Union budget. The full endowment level will be reached

in 2021. Since 2017, the Fund has received the highest levels of member state contributions (currently over $55.9 million) since the establishment of the Fund in 1993. The Peace Fund covers the following operational activities: •M ediation and preventive diplomacy • Institutional capacity • Peace support operations. This endowment will enable the AU to fully finance mediation and preventive diplomacy activities, institutional readiness and capacity, maintain a crisis reserve facility, as well as meet its commitment to finance 25 percent of its peace operations budget.

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November 17, 2018 Multipurpose Hall, AU Headquarters Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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AU-EU PARTNERSHIP, BEYOND THE COTONOU AGREEMENT By Victor Adetula Head of Research, Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), Uppsala, Sweden; Professor of International Relations and Development Studies at the University of Jos, Nigeria. Excerpts from The Future of EU-Africa Cooperation: Beyond the Cotonou Agreement, Policy Note no. 5:2018, The North Africa Institute. T here is profound concern in large circles in Africa that the Cotonou Agreement obstructs African Governments from supporting domestic production and that the EU is splitting Africa in two by striking separate deals with different African regions.

hese perceptions are important considerations for those involved in the upcoming negotiations to replace the existing agreement. The EU-Africa relationship is guided essentially by the provisions of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement (CPA), which covers trade and development cooperation, and also contains a political dimension. It comprises the 28 member states of the EU and the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) group of states, which comprises 79 countries—48 in Africa, 16 in the Caribbean, and 15 in the Pacific. The Cotonou Partnership Agreement expires in February 2020. Since the CPA was signed back in 2000, major changes have swept the world and many new roadmaps have been drawn, with important consequences for the EU-Africa relationship—the UN 2030 SDGs Agenda, the Paris Climate Change Agreement, the European Consensus on Development, and the AU Agenda 2063, to mention a few. There are several imponderables about postCotonou 2020, and there is no way of determining the outcome of the negotiations. The situation is further complicated by the multi-layered relationship between the EU and Africa: for example, the CPA supplies an institutional structure comprising a council of ministers, a committee of ambassadors, and a joint parliamentary assembly. These bodies formulate general principles and strategies to guide the relationship with the EU. At the same time though, there are continent-wide

and regional agreements, as well as bilateral agreements between individual EU member states and individual African countries. All these have consequences for EU-Africa cooperation. However, the EU seems determined to negotiate with the ACP as a single entity, as in previous negotiations. While it acknowledges Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific as separate regions, it seems reluctant to let go of the ACP concept and its most recent addition—the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs). Thus, the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) may assume more responsibility in a future EU–Africa relationship, with some components of the new agreement being implemented at the regional and sub-regional level. The promotion and protection of human rights is today an essential component of EU development cooperation policies and programs. The negotiations (and their final outcome) are likely to reflect the EU’s commitment to the rule of law, human rights, democratization, and participation by non-state actors. It is expected to invoke these general principles and values, which also underlie the Africa– EU Strategic Partnership and the Joint Africa–Europe Strategy adopted in 2007. The African negotiators, in particular, may raise concerns about the separate EU arrangements with South Africa and certain countries of North Africa (the latter are members of the AU but are not parties to the Cotonou Agreement). The AU has complained that the Cotonou Agreement splits Africa in two. It is unlikely that North Africa will be included in a new agreement, but there is the possibility that the North African countries could be encouraged to seek to affiliate with the new agreement. Future trade cooperation between the EU and Africa will follow the rules of the new EPAs. Under the CPA, preferential market access is based on reciprocity. This arrangement has been criticized in many circles in Africa for being based on an unequal partnership:

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The African Union

It supposedly works against the trade liberalization regimes in existing regional schemes, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Conclusions and Lessons Learned The EU-Africa relationship to date has been asymmetric due to the imbalance of power between Europe and Africa. This power relationship has been supported by the structures and institutions of the international political system, which generally favor the global North over the South. Many African countries exhibit a lack of initiative and a readiness to make the best of the opportunities available under the EU-ACP partnership. The apparent lack of EU interest in aid as a measure of solidarity presents a major stumbling block that is likely to remain as long as the trade and investment relationships between the EU and Africa

are organized and maintained on the basis of the free play of market forces and easy access to raw materials. Key recommendations for effective partnership between the EU and Africa within the context of a post-Cotonou Agreement are: • The logic, rationale and justification for the EPAs have to be reconsidered. The EPAs have so far not changed the dominant perception in many circles in Africa that they are seeking to open up the ACP economies to the free entry of European goods and the free operation of European investors, while undermining the ability of ACP governments to give preferential support to domestic products, producers, and investors. • The complexity of migration (in all its forms), its root causes, and its impacts must be addressed in the appropriate multilateral fora, in order to move beyond the present panic measures to tackle immigration. • Support for democracy and good governance should not be based solely on a one-sided, western interpretation of what constitutes good governance, civil society, and human rights; it should also account for Africa’s specificities. • To protect and advance their interests in the global economic system, the African countries need to work with existing initiatives within the AU and NEPAD to promote broad-based regional integration in Africa. • The EU and Africa should work together more closely to boost cooperation in the UN and other international fora, especially on such issues as trade, human rights, and climate change. • A modified form of ‘Nordic exceptionalism’— an approach to international partnership and cooperation that is based on Nordic ideas, values, and practices and that places the welfare of people above all other considerations—could be adopted to guide the negotiation of a post-Cotonou agreement. • In implementing the Africa–EU Strategic Partnership Agreement, the EU and the AU need to stop focusing solely on institutions and instead involve a wider spectrum of non-traditional actors from civil society, including women, young people, professional groups, and the African diaspora, as well as people from the private sector and academia.

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DIRECTORATE OF WOMEN, GENDER & DEVELOPMENT The African Union calls on Ministers responsible for Gender and Women’s Affairs to do more to achieve the common goal of gender equality and women’s empowerment.

he African Union Women, Gender & Development Directorate (AU WGDD) is one of the AUC Directorates located in the office of the Chairperson. This was in furtherance of Article 12 (3) of the Statutes of the AU Commission which recognizes “gender as a cross-cutting issue through all portfolios of the Commission” and provides for

the establishment of a “special unit in the Office of the Chairperson to coordinate activities and programs of the Commission related to gender issues.” The AU WGDD has the specific mandate to mainstream gender equality and spearhead the promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment within and throughout the Union, as well as within member states by translating the AU policy agreements and instruments into measurable programs and projects. It provides oversight by facilitating the development and harmonization of policy, facilitating co‐ordination, and initiating gender mainstreaming strategies.

The newly developed AU Strategy on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment will assist in translating commitments into concrete, transformational, and sustainable actions to achieve our common goal of gender equality and women’s empowerment in Africa.

H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson, African Union Commission

Addis Ababa—May 7, 2018: AU Member Country Officials Responsible for Gender and Women’s Affairs at the Third Ordinary Session of the African Union Specialized Technical Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (STC-GEWE)

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The African Union

The Directorate promotes gender equality in Africa and within the AU. It designs programs and projects based on policies adopted by AU member states. It also oversees the development and harmonization of gender-related policies; initiates gender-mainstreaming strategies within the Commission and for AU organs and member states; and supports capacity building by providing training on gender policies and instruments. The Directorate has two divisions: Gender Policy and Development Division (GPDD) and Gender Coordination and Outreach. It also acts as the Secretariat for the African Union Women’s Committee (AUWC). Mrs. Mahawa Kaba Wheeler Director, WGDD

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES Fund for African Women (FAW) The AU created the Fund for African Women (FAW) in 2010, with the intention of directly supporting and enhancing women’s participation in the economic process, as well as increasing African women’s participation in economic decision making.

The African Women’s Decade (2010–2020) The African Women’s Decade (AWD) was adopted in 2009 with the overall theme: Grassroots Approach to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE).

Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa (SDGEA) Adoption of the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa (SDGEA) by AU Heads of State in 2004 is the landmark commitment by Africa’s leaders to report on progress made in gender mainstreaming.

Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa Adoption of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa in 2003.

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BACKGROUND

he 18th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2012, adopted a decision to establish a Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) by an indicative date of 2017. The Summit also endorsed the Action Plan on Boosting Intra-Africa Trade (BIAT), which identifies seven clusters: trade policy, trade facilitation, productive capacity, trade-related infrastructure, trade finance, trade information, and factor market integration. The CFTA will bring together 55 African countries with a combined population of 1.2 billion and a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of more than US $3.4 trillion.

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OBJECTIVES OF THE CFTA • Create a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business persons and investments, and thus pave the way for accelerating the establishment of the Continental Customs Union and the African Customs Union. • Expand intra-African trade through better harmonization and coordination of trade liberalization and facilitation regimes and instruments across Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and across Africa in general. • Resolve the challenges of multiple and overlapping memberships and expedite the regional and continental integration processes. • Enhance competitiveness at the industry and enterprise level through exploiting opportunities for scale production, continental market access, and better reallocation of resources.

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WOMEN: BACKBONE OF AFRICA’S ECONOMY AfCFTA and African Women

H.E. Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade & Industry —Excerpts from Speeches

“W

ith an attractive market and a growing African middle class, we expect increased African and Foreign Direct Investment in textiles. . . . Although Africa currently accounts for less than 1 percent of global exports of manufactured goods, these efforts reflect the fact that the spirit of the African people to industrialize is alive and working. . . . The task ahead is to give the AfCFTA greater dynamism through timely and effective implementation of the commitments of the Third Industrial Development Decade for Africa. . . . We are also in the process of designing a commodities strategy to accelerate value addition. Furthermore, we are in the process of designing a small and medium enterprises strategy to mobilize the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, especially the youth and women. . . . With a large and attractive market, and a growing African middle class, we expect increased African and Foreign Direct Investment in textiles, electronic and other consumer goods and; inter-alia, manufacture or assembly of motor vehicles. I would also like to add that when implemented, the Continental Free Trade Area will increase

Africa’s share of global trade from the current level of 3 percent to 6 percent within a decade, which was the global share that Africa had in 1964. We are working with zeal to bring the AfCFTA into operation. Forty-four countries signed the Agreement in Kigali, with five additional countries signing during the AU Summit in Nouakchott, Mauritania, bringing the total number of signatures to 49 to date. In addition, we have seven ratifications, namely Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Niger, Eswatini, Chad, and Guinea. We continue to work to secure the minimum number of 22 ratifications. We are confident of obtaining that by December this year. However, our main target is to have all countries ratify so that we create a truly large and integrated market.

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The textile and clothing industry can drive Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial transformation and create millions of jobs. I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

ASSESSING THE AFRICAN WOMEN’S DECADE (2010–2020) Most countries now have gender policies or some kind of national women’s mechanism, such as a Ministry of Gender or Ministry of Women’s Affairs. There are aspects of gender equality in many constitutions and some countries have passed other laws on different aspects of women’s rights.

Rainatou Sow

eads of State and Government at the XII Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union, declared 2010–2020 the African Women’s Decade. The main goal of the Decade is to enhance the implementation of commitments related to gender equality and women’s empowerment. The vision is that the activities undertaken during the decade will result in tangible positive change for African women at all levels, as well

Executive Director, Make Every Woman Count

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as contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Goals.

Background and Introduction The idea of a Women’s Decade was hatched in 1975 by the United Nations at the First World conference on Women that was held in Mexico City. Since then, African women have been involved, and continue to participate in local and international consultations on women’s rights and gender equality.

Maison Dorcas Women’s Singing Group Democratic Republic of the Congo Through the Maison Dorcas music therapy program, this acapella group provides psychological support and community for vulnerable and abused women.

Aim of the African Women’s Decade

Objective of African Women’s Decade

The aim of the African Women’s Decade is to advance gender equality by accelerating implementation of Dakar, Beijing, and AU Assembly Decisions on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE), through dual top-down and bottom-up approaches, which is inclusive of grassroots participation.

The objective of the African Women’s Decade is to re-invigorate commitments to accelerated implementation of agreed global and regional commitments of GEWE. Special focus will be on these ten themes: • Fighting poverty and promoting economic empowerment of women and entrepreneurship

• Agriculture and food security •W omen’s health, maternal mortality, and HIV & AIDS • Education, science, and technology • Environment and climate change • Peace and security and violence against women • Governance and legal protection • Finance and gender budgets • Women in decision-making positions • Mentoring youth (men and women) to be champions of GEWE

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H.E. Amina J. Mohammed

The African Union

“ LONG WALK TO FREEDOM ” UNFINISHED FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS Deputy UN Secretary-General says in Mandela lecture

eflecting on the legacy of Nelson Mandela, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called for investment in women and girls, decrying gender inequality as perhaps the most pervasive disparity around the world. “Sadly, the long walk to freedom for women and adolescent girls globally remains unfinished,” Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed told the 15th Nelson Mandela annual lecture in Cape Town, South Africa, referring to the title of Mr. Mandela’s autobiography. Speaking on November 25, 2017, which is marked annually as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Deputy Secretary-General issued a call to action for the international community “to invest in the missing 50 percent of our human asset base, the potential of our women, and unleash their power for good. “Just as the world came together to support the end of subjugation on the basis of race in this great country, we need today to birth a new movement that calls for true equality everywhere,” she urged. Ms. Mohammed noted that violence against women in homes and war zones is “a global pandemic.” Additionally, fewer than one-third of

senior management positions in the private sector are held by women, and less than 25 percent of all parliamentarians are women. She said the new narrative must address the current context and constituency of young people left behind. She discussed an unplanned meeting between Ekhlas Bajoo, a Yazidi woman who had been captured and held by the Islamic State (ISIL or Daesh) and Hauwa Mohammed, victimized by Boko Haram, who embraced and exchanged messages of hope. “I left that day knowing that there is nothing more important than giving girls like this a platform to reach the world for those left behind without an authentic voice,” Ms. Mohammed said. “Nelson Mandela had a very long walk to freedom,” Ms. Mohammed said. “Most of us could not even fathom this journey. At the end, he said he “discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds there are many more hills to climb.” Leadership at all levels is the key.” She also paid tribute to other South African leaders, including the head of UN Women, Phumzile MlamboNgcuka, and Navi Pillay, former High Commissioner for Human Rights. Ms. Mohammed, who as Deputy to

Secretary-General António Guterres is the highest-ranking woman at the UN, said that Mr. Mandela’s profound legacy contains the inspiration needed to address gender equality, which is putting people at the center to reduce inequality through inclusion and sustainability. In a speech peppered with personal anecdotes of growing up biracial in Nigeria at a time of apartheid in South Africa, Ms. Mohammed noted that she had never met Mr. Mandela, or Madiba as he is affectionately known, and so represents generations of people who take inspiration from his life without a personal encounter. Before the speech, Ms. Mohammed toured the office and archives at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, reading Madiba’s own writing, and had a personal tour of Robben Island, where he had been imprisoned. Earlier, at a press briefing in Johannesburg, Ms. Mohammed said that tackling gender-based violence begins in the home and in communities. “While progress has been made, a lot more needs to be done,” she told the journalists. President Obama delivered the 16th Annual Nelson Mandela lecture in Johannesburg in July 17, 2018. Courtesy of Nelson Mandela Foundation

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AFRICA, TAKING OWNERSHIP OF HER NARRATIVE

t is often said that “perception is reality.” This is unfortunately true for Africa when you consider the negative international media portrayal given to 55 sovereign, most richly endowed nations on the planet, and their 1.27 billion people.

As long as the international community perceives Africa through mainstream media’s lenses, as a place of gross dysfunction and everything ugly—wars, coup d’états, hunger and famine, abject poverty, ignorance and illiteracy, corruption, etc.—investors will invest their resources in other regions of the world instead of in Africa, even though statistics prove that there is no better investment destination outside Africa. The stereotype is so entrenched that even some people of African descent living in the western hemisphere have little or no interest in associating or identifying with the continent of Africa. As a media and communications professional with almost two decades of experience in the U.S. media industries, from Washington, DC (East coast) to Hollywood (West coast), I never cease to be amazed by western media outlets’ propensity to bypass the positive, beautiful, and newsworthy success stories staring straight at their cameras, for the ugliest stories and images in some of the remotest parts of the continent. I ask myself, “what is this about, or what is the point of this news item?” Whether this “ancient practice” is by default, design, or convenience, the skewed coverage and reportage on Africa is unfair to both Africans and the international community. The practice misinforms and disinforms the international community, and no one really wins at the end of the day. Jare Ijalana is an adorable Nigerian girl who lives in Lagos with her family. Lifestyle, portrait, and wedding photographer Bisola Mofeoluwa “Mofe” Bamuyiwa of BMB Studios discovered her and took this picture when Jare was 5 years old. Her beauty is stunning and almost unbelievable. Invest in Africa magazine recognizes her as the “prettiest girl in the world.” For the rest of the world, that might be an irony because of the stereotypical images western media networks often share from the continent. Jare’s photograph has made the rounds on many social media platforms, but it still has not gone as viral as the ugly images of Africans do in western media. It is not surprising to me at all that she was discovered by an African. This is not the kind of image that western media producers typically seek out in Africa; it’s too nice, and in their opinion, it doesn’t represent Africa well enough.

To put things in proper perspective, Kevin Carter, a white South African photojournalist was awarded a Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography, for his photograph depicting the 1993 famine in Sudan. He is credited with taking a widely circulated photograph of the vulture and the little girl showing a frail famine-stricken boy, initially believed to be a girl, who had collapsed in the foreground, with a vulture eyeing him from nearby. The photograph was a “really big deal,” and he received a Pulitzer Prize for it. Kevin committed suicide the following year, at age 33. Portions of his suicide note read: “I am haunted by the vivid memories of killings and corpses and anger and pain . . . of starving or wounded children.” Being a journalist myself, I definitely appreciate the use of this photograph to highlight human crisis of any kind. When such images however become the norm, the preferred, or most celebrated by the west, then Africa’s prosperity is being jeopardized. In contrast, Jare’s picture is dignifying, beautiful, and inviting. It does not evoke emotions of pity and sorrow. It communicates promise and hope, for her, and millions of African girls, and it compels me to want to learn more about her. I will like to learn about her dreams and aspirations as a young Nigerian girl, and contribute to her education and well-being where possible. I will want to meet her and take her out for lunch, to the park or the movies etc. If she were of working age, I would want to help her find gainful and fulfilling employment or do business with her. Everything in me wants her to be successful. But, I have never even met Jare, and it doesn’t matter at all! That’s the power of an image—BEAUTIFUL ATTRACTS and UGLY DOESN’T. As the African Union Commission and its partners work to uplift the continent, one of its major challenges is to improve the “face of Africa” and rewrite the narrative of the continent and her estimated 1.27 billion people as a progressive, forward-thinking, and entrepreneurial one, which is exactly what Africa is. The social, geopolitical, and economic significance of this single photograph of Jare really got me thinking; Africa has lost trillions of dollars in revenue and opportunities through western media’s mischaracterization of the continent. No wonder my wife Beryl and I established the Africa MEDIAIMAGE Project (AMIP News) in 2004 to Re-Present Africa. We’ve got work to do Africa! Frederick Nnoma-Addison

THE “PRETTIEST GIRL IN THE WORLD” Jare Ijalana Hails from Africa

The African Union

Lagos, Nigeria

Mofe Bamuyiwa Professional photographer Photos courtesy of BMB Studios

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AU MISSION

he African Union Representational Mission to the United States is the first bilateral diplomatic mission of the African Union. Officially launched on July 11, 2007, in Washington, DC, its mandate is to undertake, develop, and maintain constructive and productive institutional relationships between the African Union and the executive and legislative branches of the U.S. government, the African Diplomatic Corps, Africans in the Diaspora, and the Bretton Woods Institutions. The Mission was established by the decision CM/ DEC. 367 (LXVII) taken during the 67th Ordinary Session in February 1998, authorizing the secretary general to open anÂ office in Washington, DC. Africa House, the permanent home of the mission, was officially inaugurated on August 3, 2014, by H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, then chairperson of the African UnionÂ Commission.

KEY MANDATES AU African Diaspora Centers of Excellence Grand Africa Tour Improving AGOA Utilization Radio and TV Station Diaspora Mobilization

Africa House, 1640 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20007

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DEPUTY CHAIRMAN QUARTEY VISITS WASHINGTON Talks Africa’s history, intra-Africa trade, and the Free Trade Agreement at the Brookings Institute.

Ambassador Kwesi Quartey was in Washington (July 9–13) to attend AGOA summits at the World Bank and State Department. He also met with members of the Diaspora at a townhall meeting held at Africa House.

“Conceptually, walls were built between the various colonies. In Ghana, for instance, where I come from, we are surrounded by Francophone countries, and we have very little to do with them.” . . . I want to talk about CFTA, I want to talk about integration—the need to integrate, the need to trade among ourselves, which for me, seems to be the most logical thing. One must begin to wonder, why has it not always been like that? And, for the answer to this, you have to go to the history of Africa. Africa has been termed various things. It has been termed the eternal question mark, the great conundrum. . . . A continent so well endowed, for some reason, manages to be poor and destitute. And, it’s almost inconceivable. You have seen Africans outside of the continent performing very well. And, you wonder how come? Because we never manage to get our act together. And the reason, I dare to suggest, lies in the history. And I want to say that if we say that we need to integrate, that in itself, is an admission that we are somewhat less than integral. And, logically, we need to seek to locate the source of that loss of integration. And perhaps, we can begin to find answers to our problems. . . . I believe in looking at phenomena in history, the roots, the evolution, the development. So, I want to suggest that the lack of integration, the lack of—the absence of Africans trading with each other lies in the colonial history. The Berlin Conference that divided it up—I read something supposedly by the French Minister for Commerce in 17th century somewhere. And, he was talking about—he was defining what the colony was. And, the point

Excerpts from remarks given at the Brookings Institute

that we’re a colony, is for the colony to concentrate on producing one primary product to feed the metropole, and for the metropole, in turn, to provide everything that is needed in the colony. And, beyond that to prevent this colony from any interaction whatsoever with his immediate neighbors. . . . So conceptually, walls were built between the various colonies. In Ghana, for instance, where I come from, we are surrounded by Francophone countries, and we have very little to do with them. . . . This has been replicated all across the continent. So, trade and the current relations have been from the colony to the metropole and vice versa. And, it is only at a point of independence that nations began—leaders began to meet each other—to find where they had common interests, and there was a need for them to trade together. . . . I’m saying that the absence of trade between African countries has historical origins. And, it is only now that we are seeking to unravel those walls that have been built, preventing us from interacting with each other. Physically, some of those walls are gone, but the greater walls exist in the minds of the people. So, the CFTA gives us background. Seeking to enlarge the commerce space by moving those tariff barriers. Because tariff and other the barriers are examples of state policy. . . . So, the history has built corrupt practices, which are intended to

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prevent any interaction between us. So, for 44 countries to be able to sign a free trade agreement, with an aim of removing those barriers, and for them to be able to trade among themselves is a major step. Specifically, it will ensure that we’re trading primary production to the metropole. . . . In the short term, it can only be seen through an increase in trade among our people, and as a concerted effort to remove barriers, both tariff and nontariff, which hinder trade between two countries. You notice, in our relationship with Europe, the convention allows you to export primary commodities free of any extra duties to Europe. The moment you start to process and add value, the taxes come. So, Europe itself helps to consolidate and prevent Africa from trading within itself. So, this process is now beginning—at least the law is passed. . . . I believe that trading within Africa increases specializations and gives us comparative advantages. And, it will be more interesting for capital exporting countries to now cite industries within the African countries. I am beginning to imagine a situation where, for instance, creatively we can have—between Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, the two countries together produce about 70 percent of world cocoa production. . . . Photo and transcript courtesy of the Africa Growth Initiative of the Brookings Institute, Washington, DC.

ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS WITH U.S. LAWMAKERS

Representative Karen Bass (37thÂ District of California)

Representative Erik Paulsen (3rd District of Minnesota)

Representative Terri A. Sewell (7th District of Alabama)

Representative Ed Royce (39th District of California)

Representative George Holding (2nd District of North Carolina)

AU MISSION ON THE GO—SELECT EVENTS IN 2018 (2ND HALF) MAY 27

Harvard, Global Health Summit

JUL 31

Maryland,

SEP 7

Virginia,

NOV 15

16th AfricaBiz Conference

AFRIFEST

Africa House, Trade/ Investment Summit

JUL 9–10

World Bank, AGOA Summit

AUG 3

DC, Diaspora Young

SEPT 10

DC, Black Blockchain

DEC 7

Leaders Summit

Summit

DC, Miss AU Pageant

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JUL 10

AUG 18

SEP 10

DEC 20

AU Mission, Washington, DC

Africa House, Deputy Chair Townhall

NY, Pan African Unity Dialogue

DC, PADYA General Meeting

DC, African Diaspora Retreat

JUL 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12

State Department,

SEPT 6

Boston University,

SEP 15

DE / PA / NJ,

AGOA Forum

Policy Leaders Forum

Tristate Outreach

JUL 13

Brookings Institute,

SEPT 7

Africa House,

OCT 18

DC, PADWA

Deputy Chair Townhall

PADWA General Meeting

Business Summit

THE MANDATE The mandate of the African Union Representational Mission to the United States is to maintain constructive and productive institutional relationships between the African Union and the executive and legislative branches of the U.S. government, the African Diplomatic Corps, Africans in the Diaspora, and the Bretton Woods Institutions.

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ore than 300 young African leaders drawn from the 2018 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders met their counterparts in the diaspora at a one-day African Diaspora Youth Leaders (ADYL) Summit held in Washington, DC (August 3, 2018) under the theme Connecting Leaders Across Africa and the Diaspora. Panel discussions by prominent Africanists from various industries, keynote addresses, and engaging question and answer sessions, addressed important issues, such as western media stereotyping of Africa, business leadership, relations between Africans on the continent and those in the Diaspora, and the role that sports and technology can play in driving growth, peace, and unity. AU Permanent Representative to the United States Ambassador Chihombori-Quao gave a brief account of Africa’s colonial history and attributed some of the current challenges Africa faces to it. She also stressed the importance of unity across the Atlantic.

“Let us pay a lot of attention to how we Africans perceive and relate to each other. The geographical divide between Africans and those in the Diaspora should not draw us further apart. Let us strengthen our ties,” she told the Fellows at the Intercontinental Hotel where the event took place. The climax of the Summit was a networking dinner attended by African Ambassadors to the United States and the new U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Ambassador Tibor Nagy. Ambassador Nagy praised the partnerships that made the Summit a success and recognized it as “an important milestone to strengthen people-to-people relationships between Africans and Americans.” He continued to advise the young men and women to embrace the vast knowledge they had gained from the Summit. “I urge you to take what you learned today back to your home communities. Tell your family and friends about the people you met and the insights you shared. Draw from each other’s experience and expertise,” said Ambassador Nagy.

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Connecting Young Leaders Across Africa and the Diaspora The African Diaspora Young Leaders Summit created a platform for dialogue and collaboration between young Africans and their counterparts in the Diaspora. It was organized by the African Union Mission, the U.S. State Department, the African Development Foundation, and the Constituency for Africa. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is a U.S. Department of State-sponsored initiative for the continuation of Nelson Mandelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy of peace and service through leadership.

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GRAND AFRICA TOUR:

CAPE TO

The “Grand Africa Tour” makes Africa the preferred destination for tourism. Tourism has the potential to accelerate Africa’s economic growth and create jobs. This sector also has the capacity to contribute significantly to the agenda for social inclusion, as cultural endowments and natural assets can be leveraged to create opportunities for local communities. One of the focuses of the African Union’s transformative Agenda 2063 is the promotion of tourism as an instrument for economic growth. This will consequently create jobs, particularly for the youth; connect the different sub regions; and showcase Africa’s natural wonders, exotic wildlife and plants, ancient cultures, historic relics, and rich cuisine.

202.342.1100

Representative Ilhan Omar Dâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;MN

Ilhan Omar (Former Somali Refugee) Wins Seat in U.S. Congress . . . Her mother died when she was a child. She was thereafter raised by her father and grandfather. After the start of the civil war in 1991, she and her family fled the country and spent 4 years in a refugee camp in Kenya. . . . Her father and grandfather emphasized the importance of democracy during her upbringing, and she accompanied her grandfather to caucus meetings at age 14, serving as his interpreter.

Invest in Africa magazin e congratulates Ilhan Omar on her historic wi n

INVESTING IN AFRICA’S GIRLS AND WOMEN YIELDS HUGE DIVIDENDS

n November 6, 2018, Ilhan Omar became the first Somali American elected to the U.S. Congress, representing Minnesota’s 5th congressional district and the first woman of color to serve as a U.S. Representative from Minnesota. Omar was born on October 4, 1981, in Mogadishu, Somalia. She is the youngest of seven siblings. Omar’s father, Nur Omar Mohamed, is a Somali and worked as a teacher trainer. Her mother was a Benadiri and died when Omar was a child. She was thereafter raised by her father and grandfather. Omar’s grandfather, Abukar, was the director of Somalia’s National Marine Transport. Her uncles and aunts were civil servants and educators. After the start of the civil war in 1991, she and her family fled the country and spent 4 years in a refugee camp in Kenya.

In 1995, they immigrated to the United States, initially settling in Arlington, Virginia. Later that same year, they moved to Minneapolis, where she learned English in only 3 months. Her father and grandfather emphasized the importance of democracy during her upbringing, and she accompanied her grandfather to caucus meetings at age 14, serving as his interpreter. Omar became a U.S. citizen in 2000. In 2016, she was elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives as a member of the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party, making her the first Somali American legislator elected to office in the United States.

AFRICAN DIASPORA CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE

ccording to the World Bank, remittances to subSaharan Africa by African immigrants were estimated at more than $35 billion in 2015. Also, African immigrant populations to the United States reportedly have the highest education attainment level in the United States per the U.S. Bureau of Census. About 48.9 percent of all African immigrants hold a college degree. Together, the African Diaspora, in partnership with Africans residing on the continent, constitute a significant economic and human capital that can support the development and transformation of Africa. If organized, the African Diaspora can be an important engine for positive transformation of Africa. The African Union (AU) recognizes that true sustainable change in Africa must include significant participation of its Diaspora. The AU has long recognized the importance and active role the African Diaspora can play to address major issues around growth of the continent and is moving even more swiftly to strengthen and solidify this relationship.

A key mandate of the African Union Mission to the United States is the establishment of five Healthcare Centers of Excellence in the five Regions of Africa under the auspices of the AU’s African Diaspora Health Initiative (AU-ADHI). It is with this conviction that the African Union Mission to the United States is developing, in cooperation with its Diaspora, five African Diaspora villages in the five African regions. The directive will include the engagement of the African Diaspora on multiple levels and across a variety of professional backgrounds

to harness their expertise in key areas pertinent to the development and sustainability of the Healthcare Centers of Excellence.

Rationale The project will be aligned with efforts made by the African Union, the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and member states to domesticate the AU’s Agenda 2063, and to implement the thirteen flagship projects of the First Ten-Year Implementation Plan 2014–2023. This includes the following: 1. Continental Financial and Monetary Institutions 2. Silencing the Guns by 2020 3. African Commodity Strategy 4. Annual African Economic Dialogue Platform/African Economic Platform 5. Great Inga Dam 6. Pan African Integrated HighSpeed Train Network 7. Single African Aviation Market 8. African Outer Space Strategy 9. Pan African E-Network on TeleEducation and Telemedicine (PAeN) 10. Establishment of the Virtual University 11. Free Movement of Persons and the African Passport 12. Continental Free Trade Area 13. Great Museum of Africa

Scope of the Project The project aims to address the following key issues: lack of capacity, brain drain, fake/expired drugs, overseas/foreign medical treatment, food insecurity, lack of infrastructure (including housing and energy), and lack of job opportunities.

Each Diaspora Village will include the following: A tertiary care center of a first-class, 1,000-bed hospital, a cardiac care center, and an ambulance service with a helicopter and training to address capacity building; this will provide first-class healthcare services for Africans so they can be treated on the continent; Three five-star hotels to promote health tourism in Africa A pharmaceutical plant to address the issue of fake and expired drugs Business services such as banks, information communication technology (ICT), housing units for staff, real-estate projects, and other infrastructure designed to support the village A large farm to respond to food security A renewable energy power plant, using solar plants that will generate 500 megawatts in support of all other sectors in the village The African Diaspora should and must stand up and be counted. “A $10 per month campaign” will be launched to mobilize funds among the African Diaspora for the establishment of the first Diaspora Village. This will represent a pivotal point in the contribution of the African Diaspora toward Africa’s prosperous future. The Government of Zambia has given to the Diaspora 132 acres of land in Livingston, on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. The Africa Union Mission’s Office in the United States is working with the Diaspora to campaign for $2 billion for this first Diaspora Village.

From African Union Representational Mission to the USA, Mandate and Core Functions; African Union Agenda 2063; First Ten-Year Implementation Plan 2014–2023 of the African Union Agenda 2063.

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DIASPORA CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE “WAKANDA ONE”

Invest in Africa

Communities Powered by Renewable Energy

Healthcare Center and Pharmaceutical M anufacturing Plant

Luxurious Five-star Hotels, Game Lodges & Chalets

Culture and Entertainment Center

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AFRICAN DIASPORA INVESTMENT AND SAVINGS ACCOUNT LAUNCHED

Invest in Africa

o fund the African Diaspora Centers of Excellence, the African Diaspora Savings and Investment Account with Industrial Bank, with a concerted goal of raising one billion dollars in the next two years, was officially launched on December 20, 2018, at the Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor hotel, in Maryland.

How to Open Your Statement Savings Account 1. Visit www.industrial-bank.com 2. Go to “OPEN A NEW ACCOUNT” button and page 3. When asked “How did you hear about us?” Select African Diaspora Initiative (ADI) on the drop-down box 4. Follow prompts and select “STATEMENT SAVINGS” under product options 5. Minimum deposit required—$200

Launch attendees—Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor hotel

ADVANCING WOMEN LEADERS IN AFRICA

Her Excellency Dr. Joyce Banda Why We Must Promote Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership A Policy Toolkit from Her Excellency Dr. Joyce Banda, Former President of Malawi Originally published by The Woodrow Wilson Center

he global community is beginning to realize how critical it is to set the framework to allow women to participate in leadership positions. Even if women possess natural leadership traits, if they face social challenges, are not economically

empowered, or there is no inclusive political system, they will not be able to develop and succeed as leaders. To show his commitment to womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau created a cabinet with equal

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representation of men and women in 2015, and prioritized gender equality, putting it at the top of the agenda for the G7 Summit in 2018. French President Emmanuel Macron followed suit, introducing a 22-person cabinet, 11 of whom are women.

Invest in Africa The United Nations has also cited “ensuring women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life” as a target of Sustainable Development Goal Number 5. In the same light, the African Union has declared 2010–2020 as the African Women’s Decade, “in order to accelerate the implementation of all commitments on gender equality and women’s empowerment from the local, national, regional, and continental levels.” The global community knows that when women are in leadership, society as a whole benefits. Women political leaders tend to focus on social issues such as health, education, and food security to name a few examples. Women leaders have been seen to be risk takers and propose innovative solutions to societal challenges. They are advocates of peace and are crucial participants in mediating conflicts around the world. Their leadership approach is inclusive and takes into account the community’s needs. Moreover, promoting women’s leadership will have extraordinary effects on the global economy. According to a report by McKinsey, women make up over half the world’s population, but only 37 percent of the workforce. This is because women’s traditional roles often include cooking, cleaning, childcare, or other informal work. If women reach their full potential, meaning they participate equally economically as men, global GDP can increase by 26 percent, or $28 trillion. In sub-Saharan Africa specifically, GDP can increase by 27 percent, or $0.7 trillion, when the gap is closed.

RECOMMENDATIONS: ACTIONS AND IMPLEMENTATIONS Enhance Political Will to Empower Girls and Appoint Qualified Women to Leadership Positions The global community, heads of state, and their governments must create opportunities to foster a conducive environment for women and girls to succeed and become leaders. While governments ultimately make laws surrounding women’s empowerment, other stakeholders can put political pressure to enhance the will to implement their programs. Mobilize Rural Leadership, Families, and Communities to Promote the Change of Mindsets and Behavior around Women and Girls Empower and engage traditional leaders to acquire skills enabling them to change mind-sets surrounding women’s leadership. Bilaterals, multilaterals, and international NGOs must involve traditional leaders in their efforts. Strengthen Networks Between Current and Emerging Leaders In the absence of a critical mass of women leaders across Africa, it is imperative to build networks to encourage female solidarity, knowledge sharing, and support systems. These networks must include all stakeholders, including girls and young women, and encourage cross-generational relationships. Allocate Resources Toward Data Collection and Analysis, and Research Around Women and Leadership In order to address the lack of research on the status of women’s leadership and argue the impact it can have on society, more attention must be paid to collecting,

analyzing, and disseminating data about women and leadership. Prioritizing data is crucial to know where we are and how far we have to go to achieve gender parity in leadership. Create the Legal Environment to Advance Women in Positions of Leadership Holding institutions accountable, writing and repealing legislation to empower women, encouraging civil society to engage with the law, and promoting access to justice will pave the way for women to become leaders. In many African countries, associations of women jurists are active in writing laws and increasing inclusion, but governments must provide necessary support to ensure their success. H.E. Dr. Joyce Banda is an entrepreneur, activist, politician, and philanthropist. She served as the President of the Republic of Malawi from 2012–2014. She was Malawi’s first female president and Africa’s second. Prior to assuming office, President Banda served as a Member of Parliament, Minister of Gender and Child Welfare, Foreign Minister, and Vice President of the Republic of Malawi. While serving as Minister of Gender and Child Welfare, she championed the enactment of The Prevention of Domestic Violence Bill (2006), which provided the legal framework to support the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. THE WOMEN IN PUBLIC SERVICE PROJECT The Women in Public Service Project is a program of the Global Women’s Leadership Initiative at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

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INVESTMENT

SECTORS

YOUTH—KEY TO STRENGTHENING AFRICA’S FUTURE

Photo: The World Bank

the auspices of Partnership for skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology (PASET), ensuring that as the African economies grow, so too does the earning potential of Africa’s youth in sciences and technology.

Hafez Ghanem, World Bank Vice President for Africa —Originally published by China Daily

hina has devoted billions of dollars to development in almost all African countries, making it one of the continent’s largest investors. Much of this investment has been in education both in sub-Saharan Africa and at home.

In fact, China has become an important destination for African students studying overseas. It comes as no surprise then, that education and skills development took center stage during last September’s Investing in Africa Forum in Changsha, Hunan province. The reason is simple: Nowhere is the focus on strengthening people’s knowledge and skills more critical than in sub-Saharan Africa, home to the world’s youngest population. The youth are the future workforce of the region, with about 11 million young people expected to enter the labor market each year for the next decade. While there has been growth in formal wage jobs in some countries, most of these young people are likely to work in informal jobs, such as household enterprises or on family-run farms, often for very low wages. But technology is rapidly changing the employment landscape, generating jobs that demand a range of digital skills. If young Africans are to compete

for high-tech, higher-paying jobs— and take advantage of increasing opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship—digital skills training must be at the core of continued education and training. To that end, the World Bank Group recently launched several initiatives designed to increase technology skills and connect young Africans to the global digital economy. XL Africa, the World Bank’s business acceleration program, was launched in 2017 and has already provided startup capital to 20 of Africa’s top digital entrepreneurs. The World Bank is working on a regional digital economy initiative which will help countries to build the foundation needed to realize the immense potential for digital impact in Africa. Since 2015, China has been an investor in the Partnership for Skills in Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology and is poised to do more. During last year’s Investing in Africa Forum, China’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Finance, together with the World Bank, committed to collaborate on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), to expand vocational training opportunities. This year, they plan to take the partnership forward, by collaborating on TVET and higher education under

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Consider this: Currently, less than 10 percent of African students are enrolled in higher education, and of those that pursue post- basic education, less than 30 percent major in science, medical care, information and communications technology, and engineering. China’s experience—and that of other Asian countries—of building scientific capacity and improving global rankings of universities, offers important examples that can be applied throughout sub-Saharan Africa. When considering a digital future, we cannot ignore technology’s potential in agriculture, which is a key driver of jobs and central to African countries’ inclusive and sustainable growth. Farming alone currently accounts for about 60 percent of total employment in the region, and significantly more when jobs across the entire food value chain are considered. In Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, for example, the food system is projected to add even more jobs between 2010 and 2025 than the rest of the economy, and technology can increase the number of jobs in agriculture even more. The continent is full of promise, and as we start our discussions, we do so knowing that Africa’s young people are its most valuable asset. It is a region of entrepreneurs and engineers, students and scholars, farmers and future leaders eager to help transform Africa. For the China-Africa partnership to progress in a way that is most beneficial to the region’s young people, it is imperative for both China and African countries to redouble their efforts. African leaders must provide a strong digital infrastructure, and remove legal, regulatory, procedural, and institutional barriers to business and foreign direct investment. Conjointly, the youth must be at the center of further Chinese investment, by creating more jobs for young people while preparing them for the future of work.

AFRICA’S PULSE IN FIVE CHARTS:

BOOSTING PRODUCTIVITY IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA A World Bank Report—October 2018 Africa’s Pulse is a bi-annual publication of the Office of the Chief Economist in the World Bank Africa Region. It analyzes the short-term economic prospects for the continent and current development challenges, as well as a special development topic. This issue of Africa’s Pulse suggests that the economic recovery of subSaharan Africa continues but at a slower pace than expected. To accelerate and sustain an inclusive growth momentum, policy makers must continue to focus on investments that foster human capital, reduce resource misallocation, and boost productivity. Finally, policies to manage the new risks arising from changes in the composition of capital flows and debt should be at the top of the macroeconomic policy agenda. Below are the top five highlights from the October 2018 issue.

Growth in sub-Saharan Africa has picked up in 2018 but at a slower pace.

Average growth in the region is estimated to have risen from 2.3 percent in 2017 to 2.7 percent in 2018, barely keeping up with population growth. Incoming data points to a bumpy ride on the road to recovery. The slower pace of the recovery in sub-Saharan Africa is explained by the sluggish expansion in the region’s three largest economies. Lower oil production in Angola and Nigeria offset higher oil prices, and in South Africa, weak household consumption growth was compounded by a contraction in agriculture. Growth in the rest of the region was steady. Several oil exporters in Central Africa were helped by higher oil prices and an increase in oil production. Economic activity remained solid in the fast-growing non-resource-rich countries, supported by

agricultural production and services on the production side, and household consumption and public investment on the demand side.

Public debt vulnerabilities remain high amid a stronger U.S. dollar and tightening global financing conditions for emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs).

Public debt remained high and continued to rise in some countries, reflecting the recent surge in Eurobond issuances. The vulnerability to weaker currencies and rising interest rates associated with the increased reliance on foreign-currency debt may put the region’s public debt sustainability further at risk. As countries have gained access to international capital markets and nonresident participation in domestic debt markets has expanded, nonconcessional debt has increased. The share of foreign currency-denominated public debt rose to 60 percent total debt in 2017, an increase of about two‑fifths from 2010–2013.

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Invest in Africa

Economic recovery in the region is set to continue but at a more gradual pace.

Growth in the region is projected to increase from 2.7 percent in 2018 to 3.3 percent in 2019, rising to 3.6 percent in 2020, slightly below April forecasts. The recovery is set to continue amid a more challenging external environment, including moderating economic growth among the region’s main trading partners, a stronger U.S. dollar, heightened trade policy uncertainty, and tightening global financial conditions. Against this backdrop, growth may be supported by a modest uptick in oil prices, the easing of drought conditions that had depressed agricultural output, and a rise in domestic demand as policy uncertainty of the past year recedes and investment rises.

Large global shocks have reshaped the composition of capital flows into sub-Saharan Africa.

Although foreign direct investment and foreign aid remain the major components of capital inflows, portfolio investment (through international bond issuances) has experienced an uptick since 2013. The change in the composition of capital flows has a higher risk content, as captured by greater vulnerability to commodity prices, global interest rates, and currency movements. Policies and reforms that build resilience to these risks and use foreign capital to raise medium-term potential growth are needed.

The region’s low productivity is attributed to inefficiencies in the allocation of resources across farms and firms, and these inefficiencies are linked to human capital misallocation.

Labor productivity differences between sub-Saharan Africa and more advanced economies have remained large. More recently, the story of misallocation (inefficiencies in the use of technologies) has become relatively more important than undercapitalization (low capital stock) in driving these productivity differences. These inefficiencies in resource allocation across agricultural farms and manufacturing firms in sub-Saharan Africa are linked to human capital misallocation. Policies and institutions distort the allocation of talent by delivering inefficient occupational choices (which either leads to more informality of a slower structural transformation process) and affecting producers’ decisions to invest in new technologies or methods of production, as well as their decisions to enter or exit the industry.

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CHINA—FRIEND OR FOE? President Xi Jinping Keynote Speech (Excerpts) The Great Hall of the People in Beijing

China, Africa Embark on Path of Win-Win Cooperation BEIJING, Sept. 3 (Xinhua)—President Xi said, “China and Africa have embarked on a distinctive path of win-win cooperation. Africa’s development has great potential and the continent is full of hope. The China-Africa friendship and cooperation have broad vistas, and China and Africa can forge an even stronger comprehensive, strategic, and cooperative partnership. China values sincerity, friendship, and equality in pursuing cooperation. Over 1.3 billion Chinese people have partnered with over 1.2 billion African people in pursuing a shared future, he said. The country follows a “five-no” approach in its relations with Africa, Xi said. 1. No interference in African countries’ pursuit of development paths that fit their national conditions. 2. No interference in African countries’ internal affairs. 3. No imposition of China’s will on African countries. 4. No attachment of political strings to assistance to Africa. 5. No seeking of selfish political gains in investment and financing cooperation with Africa. “No one can undermine the great unity between the Chinese and African people,” Xi said. China pursues common interests and puts friendship first in cooperation. China believes the sure way to boost China-Africa cooperation is for both sides to leverage their respective strengths and for China to complement Africa’s development through its own growth, and for both sides to pursue win-win cooperation and common development. Xi said, “No one can hold back the Chinese or African people as we march toward rejuvenation.” China takes a people-oriented approach in pursuing practical cooperation with efficiency. With top priority given to the interests of the Chinese and African peoples, China advances its cooperation with Africa to improve the well-being of Chinese and African peoples and deliver more benefits to them. “We will fully honor the promises we have made to our African brothers,” Xi said. “No one could, out of imagination or assumption, deny the remarkable achievements made in China-Africa cooperation.”

President Xi Jinping

China takes an open and inclusive approach to cooperation and stands ready to work with other international partners to support Africa in pursuing peace and development, Xi said. “No one can stand in the way or obstruct international efforts to support Africa’s development.”

H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Opening Ceremony The Great Hall of the People in Beijing

2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) BEIJING, Sept. 3 (Xinhua)—Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat has praised China’s support for Africa and urged the two sides to further align their development endeavors. “China is a strong supporter of Africa in such areas as infrastructure and trade, as well as peace and security,” he said. Citing Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speech at the opening session, Faki said the eight initiatives and US$60 billion of assistance Xi announced “are concrete proofs of China’s support to Africa.” “We need to further create synergy between the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the Belt and Road Initiative. The AU welcomes the Belt and Road Initiative,” said Faki. Noting that the representative mission of the AU in China was officially inaugurated a day prior, he said it exemplifies the fact that China and Africa have a closer relationship. The chairperson also said the AU is actively committed to a multilateralism that is characterized by mutual assistance and generosity.

H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat

CHINA, FRIEND OR FOE? YOU DECIDE Support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative

China or Western Nations and Institutions?

. . . The Belt and Road Initiative was in the interests of the African nations. China-Africa cooperation is in the interests of the African nations—in the values that it promotes, in the manner that it operates, and in the impact that it has on African countries.

It is more than ironic that the West is complaining about Africa’s debt to China. Since the 1960s, western nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Paris Club, etc. have “looted” Africa of hundreds of billions of dollars in bloated debt payments and through the manipulation of currencies and terms of trade. Of course, the West has participated for over a century in massive stealing of Africa’s resources, and before that, the forced exportation of millions of slaves. Let the truth be heard.

. . . FOCAC refutes the view that a new colonialism is taking hold in Africa, as our detractors would have us believe. . . . It is premised on the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a vision that has been crafted in Africa, by Africans. It is a vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena. . . . We support the Belt and Road Initiative because we are confident that this initiative, which effectively complements the work of FOCAC, will reduce the costs and increase the volume of trade between Africa and China. It will encourage the development of Africa’s infrastructure, a critical requirement for meaningful regional and continental integration. President Cyril Ramaphosa South Africa Africa wishes to be a full and integral part of the Belt and Road Initiative. The gains will be enjoyed by everyone. I applaud the personal commitment of President Xi to this initiative. He has visited every region of our continent, including my country Rwanda. China has proven to be a win-win partner and dear friend. President Paul Kagame Rwanda Outgoing Chairperson of the African Union UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres gave support to the message expressed by the African leaders at the FOCAC summit. He said, “it is vital that current and future development cooperation contributes to peace, security, and to building a ‘community of shared future for mankind,’” reiterating a concept that lies at the basis of President Xi’s conception of a new form of international relations. Guterres also expressed support for the importance of the strengthening South-South cooperation.

What Is the Belt and Road Initiative? The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), also known as the One Belt One Road (OBOR) or the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st century Maritime Silk Road is a development strategy adopted by the Chinese government involving infrastructure development and investments in countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. “Belt” refers to the overland routes, or the Silk Road Economic Belt; whereas “road” refers to the sea routes, or the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. The Chinese government calls the initiative “a bid to enhance regional connectivity and embrace a brighter future.” Observers, however, see it as a push for Chinese dominance in global affairs with a China-centered trading network.

Global Times

The West Is Africa’s Largest Debt Holder “Data shows that western countries and west-led organizations are the largest owners of African debt, not China,” Shen Shiwei, a research fellow at the Charhar Institute and former government relations and business consultant for Chinese enterprises in Africa, said in an article published on CGTN’s website. Research from SAIS and the China Africa Research Initiative at Johns Hopkins University shows that China has provided loans worth $114.4 billion to Africa from 2000–2016, which accounts for 1.8 percent of Africa’s total external debt. “The IMF and World Bank own 36 percent of African debt. These multilateral financial institutions and other giant investors in Europe and the [United States] have far stronger leverage [than China],” Shen noted in his article. “For historical reasons, the West has many interests in Africa. Those that are reasonable should be respected when we cooperate with Africa. But for those that are unreasonable, should China and African countries continue to respect them? Before accusing China, the West should think about this carefully.”

China’s Loans to Africa Leave Their Sovereignty Unscathed China’s investment and loans in African countries are designed to help them improve basic infrastructure, increase productivity, and achieve self-reliance, which analysts say differs from years of strings-attached aid from the West. Some western media and politicians have recently created the phrase “debtbook diplomacy” to accuse China of “miring nations in debt” and “undercutting their sovereignty.” According to CNN, a new report presented to the U.S. State Department claims the “Chinese government is leveraging billions of dollars in debt to gain political leverage with developing countries.” “This phrase ‘debtbook diplomacy’ shows the West is nervous of China-Africa cooperation. ‘Debtbook diplomacy’ is what they did to Africa for decades, but now China is actually helping African nations rid themselves of ‘the debt trap’ set by the West,” said Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China in Beijing.

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Invest in Africa “The West left African countries with a heavy debt on projects and failed to support their sustainable development, or to increase productivity and help them realize self-reliance,” Wang noted. “Western countries wanted Africa to become their raw materials supplier while maintaining their postcolonial influence over the continent. This prevented African countries from realizing their own industrialization,” Wang said. “China, on the other hand, is helping the nations move toward self-reliance and industrialization. China has a ‘crucial principle,’ which is to respect African countries’ will and conditions. China has never forced African countries to accept loans on large infrastructure projects beyond their ability to pay,” Wang said. Yang Sheng Global Times

China: Friend or Foe for Africa? The Short Answer The short answer is, China is a friend and contributor to Africa’s progress. Ignore all the propaganda, ignorance, and outright lies claiming that China is the new colonizer of Africa. There is absolutely no truth in the contorted comparison between China’s involvement in Africa today, and 500 years of slavery and colonialism by Western nations. Following the successful September 3–4 Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing, we have witnessed an escalated disinformation campaign alleging that China is attempting to snare African nations in a new “debt-trap.” New viscous rumors have emerged that China is taking over ownership of key infrastructure projects in Africa. Every African Head of State who has spoken out, has refuted these allegations and praised their cooperative relationship with China. According to a report by the British-based Jubilee Debt Campaign, “Africa’s growing debt crisis: Who is the debt owed to?” China is owed a minority of external debt. Their figures compiled from the World Bank and the China Africa Research Institute show that 20% of African government external debt is owed to China in contrast 32% to private lenders, and 35% to multilateral institutions such as the World Bank. Out of 14 countries examined, 12 owe less than 18% of their debt to China (Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Gambia, Ghana, Mauritania, Mozambique, Sao Tome and Principe, South Sudan, Sudan and Zimbabwe); and three owe more than 24% -Djibouti (68%), Zambia (30%) and Cameroon (29%). The proponents of the “debt-trap” accusation conspicuously and egregiously omit from their chronicle the history of the financial imprisonment of the then newly independent African nations by the IMF, World Bank, Paris Club, and their kith and kin in the City of London and Wall Street. Through manipulation of terms of trade, controlling prices, and forcing currency deviations, African nations found themselves shackled in several hundred billion dollars of new debt to the West shortly after African nations achieved liberation from imperialist colonial masters. Western debt replaced

slavery and colonialism as the new method of looting Africa of its wealth, reinforced by the ill-fated Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs), otherwise known as the “Washington Consensus.” So, who is kidding whom about a “debt-trap?” Lawrence Freeman Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, and Vice Chairman of the International Scientific Advisory Committee to the Lake Chad Basin Commission

China to Invest $60 Billion in Africa over the Next Three Years Beijing, September 3—Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China would be investing $60 billion in Africa over the next three years, which would include $15 billion of interestfree and concessional loans, $20 billion of credit lines, a $10 billion special fund for development financing, a $5 billion special fund for financing imports from Africa, and encouraging investment by Chinese companies to the tune of $10 billion in Africa. President Xi laid out the nine major initiatives that China would implement in collaboration with Africa in the coming three years: 1. In industrial promotion, China will set up a China-Africa trade expo in China in order to encourage Chinese investment in Africa. 2. It will also carry out 50 agricultural assistance programs, provide $147 million in food aid to African countries affected by natural disasters, and send 500 agricultural experts to Africa. 3 With regard to infrastructure, China, together with the African Union, will formulate a China-Africa infrastructure cooperation program. 4. With regard to trade, China will increase its imports from Africa, in particular non-resource products. 5. On green development, China will undertake 50 projects focusing on climate change, ocean, desertification prevention and control, and wildlife protection. 6. On capacity building, China will set up 10 workshops in Africa to offer vocational training for young Africans. It will also train 1,000 high-caliber Africans in innovation sectors; provide Africa with 50,000 government scholarships; and sponsor seminar and workshop opportunities for 50,000 Africans and invite 2,000 African students to visit China for exchanges. 7. In health care, China will upgrade 50 medical and health aid programs for Africa. 8. On people-to-people exchanges, China will set up an institute of African studies and enhance exchanges with Africa on civilization. 9. And on peace and security, China will set up a ChinaAfrica peace and security fund, continue providing free military aid to the African Union, and will support countries in the Sahel region, and those bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Guinea, in upholding security and combating terrorism in their regions. FOCAC

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ETHIOPIA SETS RECORD WITH HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, MOVES COUNTRY IN POSITIVE DIRECTION

This election is a landmark in many respects. It is the first time in Ethiopia’s long and proud history that a woman is assuming this elected high office. Coming after the formation of a gender parity cabinet, it marks a new milestone in Ethiopia’s trajectory toward women’s empowerment and effective participation in political decisionmaking. The confidence bestowed upon Madam Zewde is a source of pride not only for Ethiopia, but also for the continent as a whole.” H.E. Moussa Faki Chairman, African Union Commission

The absence of peace victimizes firstly women, so during my tenure I will emphasize women’s roles in ensuring peace and the dividends of peace for women. President Sahle-Work Zewde October 25, 2018 Inaugural Address

n her inaugural speech as Ethiopia’s new president, Sahle-Work Zewde highlighted the importance of peace, unity, and empowering women as pillars of development. Zewde, who is a vocal advocate for women empowerment, used the historic occasion to highlight the need to “build a society that rejects the oppression of women . . . If the current change in Ethiopia is headed equally by both men and women, it can sustain its momentum and realize a prosperous Ethiopia free of religious, ethnic, and gender discrimination.”

The 68-year-old president is a veteran diplomat who has served her country with distinction, including as Ethiopia’s ambassador to France, Djibouti, Senegal, and the regional bloc—the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). She resigned her job as the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General to the African Union to take up her new role.

REFORMIST PRIME MINISTER ABIY AHMED INSPIRES OPTIMISM

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signs a peace accord with Eritrea in Saudi Arabia—October 17, 2018

Recent Developments Ethiopia’s New Cabinet 50 Percent Women, Including Defense

Ethiopia to Undertake Huge Privatization Venture

Ethiopia to Start Issuing all Africans with Visas on Arrival

Ethiopia’s new approved cabinet is now a record 50 percent female, including a woman defense minister. Reformist Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed says, “Our women ministers will disprove the old adage that women can’t lead.” Aisha Mohammed Musa will lead Ethiopia’s Defense Ministry, and former House Speaker Muferiat Kamil will lead the new Ministry of Peace. The Ministry of Peace will oversee the powerful National Intelligence and Security Service, the Information Network Security Agency, the Federal Police Commission, and the Finance Security and Information Center. Ethiopia has faced sweeping political and economic reforms since the 42-year-old prime minister took office in April. The Horn of Africa power joins a handful of countries, mostly European, where women make up 50 percent or more of ministerial positions.

Ethiopia’s ruling coalition, Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), announced that it is poised to partially and fully privatize certain state-owned factories and service sector enterprises. The list includes the railway service, sugar plants, industry parks, hotels, maritime transport, and other enterprises.

Ethiopia has announced that effective from November 9, 2018, nationals of all African countries will get visas upon arrival without prior application, as part of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s vision of a closer and full regional integration in Africa.

Ethiopian Airlines, one of the leading and most successful airlines in Africa, will be partially privatized. Other companies are Ethio Telecom—another giant state-owned service-providing enterprise—and Hydro plants. According to the EPRDF, these economic policy measures “are necessary to reinforce the fast economic growth.” Ethiopians received the announcement with mixed feelings.

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The policy will open up the east African country to African visitors, and it will undoubtedly ease the free movement of African nationals and boost tourism. The announcement is indeed laudable and demonstrates that African countries are beginning to act on the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 for “a continent with seamless borders” to help facilitate the free movement of African citizens.

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It is only when all black groups join hands and speak with one voice that we shall be a bargaining force which will decide its own destiny.

Winnie Madikizela Mandela (1936â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2018) South African anti-apartheid activist and politician

IN MEMORIAM I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

AFRICA IS ON THE MOVE Key Indicators Pointing to Favorable Investment Climate 1. Gains in Democracy The wheels of democracy turned in the following 9 countries in 2018. All the elections were not 100 percent perfect, but they are commendable. No one country’s elections is 100 percent perfect anyway. 1. Sierra Leone—March 7 2. Egypt—March 26–28 3. Mali—July 29, August 12 (runoff) 4. Zimbabwe—July 30 5. Rwanda (Parliamentary)—September 2 6. Cameroon—October 7 7. Ethiopia—October 25 8. Madagascar—November 7, December 19 (runoff) 9. Libya—December 10 (rescheduled for 2019) 10. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)—December 30

Freedom Day, South Africa (1994) First post-apartheid election

2. Winning the Fight Against Corruption How Nigeria’s President Buhari Is Faring In 2015, Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari vowed to eliminate corruption in the country. While experts have praised the government’s initial measures, many Nigerians feel that little progress has been made in the last three years.

President Buhari speaks at global anti-corruption summit

President Buhari’s campaign is in line with the African Union’s theme for 2018 “Winning the Fight Against Corruption: A Sustainable Path to Africa’s Transformation.” Keep up the good work, Mr. President! Battle well fought.

3. A Growing, Dynamic, and Youthful Labor Force

Africa’s vibrant youthful population holds the keys to the continent’s destiny. By 2050, the African continent will have the greatest number of young people in the world, nearly twice the young population of South Asia and Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

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Invest in Africa 4. Economic Growth The six fastest-growing economies in the world are in Africa. Real output growth was estimated to have increased 3.6 percent in 2017 and to accelerate to 4.1 percent in 2018 and 2019. Overall, the recovery of growth has been faster than envisaged, especially among non-resource– intensive economies. Source: African Economic Outlook. African Development Bank

5. Breakthroughs in Peace and Conflict Resolution

South Sudan signs peace agreement.

The South Sudanese celebrated a peace deal signed by President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar on August 5, 2018 (left). The powersharing deal is aimed at ending a brutal five‑year civil war. It will see rebel leader Riek Machar return to government as one of five vice-presidents. He and President Salva Kiir signed an agreement in neighboring Sudan.

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and officials from the two countries, attended the 2018 Eritrea–Ethiopia Peace Summit in Asmara, Eritrea (July 8–9). The two leaders signed a joint declaration on July 9, formally ending the border conflict between both countries, restoring full diplomatic relations, and agreeing to open their borders to each other for persons, goods, and services. A joint statement was also considered to close all chapters regarding the Eritrean– Ethiopian War (1998–2000) and of the following Eritrean–Ethiopian border conflict (2000–2018) with sporadic clashes. This agreement follows two decades of animosity between the two countries.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki signing peace agreement

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RWANDA IS ADVANCING WOMEN LEADERSHIP

Women now make up 67.5 percent of the Rwandan Parliament

his is a new world record for women representation in parliament. Out of 80 parliamentary seats in Rwanda, women occupy 54 seats. The new record was set after the National Electoral Commission announced the September 3 parliamentary elections results, which saw President Kagame’s party—Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF)—sweeping 74 percent of the total vote and taking 40 seats.

About 15 years ago, Rwanda was ranked 37th globally for the number of seats held by women in parliament. Today, at over 60 percent, Rwanda has the highest percentage of women in parliament in the world. Rwanda’s new cabinet is also a skillful blend of age, gender, and technocrats. President Paul Kagame unveiled a gender-balanced cabinet in accordance with an earlier pledge, with 11 out of 20 posts taken

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Invest in Africa

Photo: Newly sworn in Rwandan Parliament By Cyril Ndegeya/Xinhua/Alamy Live News

by women. The President and his new Prime Minister, DrÂ Edouard Ngirente named a mix of former ministers and new figures in their line-up that also saw new dockets created. There is a lot of talk about the low number of young leaders in Africa and yet the median age on the continent is less than 20 years old, creating a disconnect with the leadership in many places. In addition, there are too few women in leadership positions, yet their roles in the socio-economic growth

of any country is critical. This probably explains why transformational leaders are increasingly building teams with more women and younger members. For Rwanda, this journey did not start with the recent appointment of the new cabinet. It has been ongoing for more than a decade. The youngest minister is currently 31 years old. With the entry and re-appointment of other youthful men and women, the average age of the new cabinet has fallen to 47.5Â years.

Athan Tashobya of the Rwandan Times contributed to this page

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17 REASONS WOMEN MAKE GREAT LEADERS By Replicon: The Intelligence Company Original source: Business News Daily

Women value work-life balance.

They’re motivated by challenges.

They have high emotional intelligence.

They are empathetic.

They’re strong communicators.

They’re flexible.

They make great listeners.

They dream big.

They lead by example.

They are nurturing.

They handle crisis situations well.

They make their jobs look effortless.

They focus on teamwork.

They can wear many hats.

They defy the odds.

They’re good at multitasking.

They check their egos.

ender shouldn’t be a factor in whether or not a person can be a great leader—a person’s leadership abilities should depend on their individual strengths and personality traits. However, in many cases, women aren’t encouraged to take on leadership roles as often as their male counterparts, contributing to an imbalance of who is in power. In 2017, only 6.4 percent (32 Fortune 500 Companies) were led by women. But women are just as qualified as men are to lead, so why is there such a huge disparity between them? A 2015 study by talent management system Saba Software, conducted by the Harris Poll, found that 60 percent of male employees

expect their companies to play an active role in their individual career options, versus 49 percent of female employees who expect this. Emily He, former chief marketing officer at Saba (now the CMO at DoubleDutch), said that this supports findings from other studies that women are more hesitant to speak up about their career ambitions. But Saba also discovered that women are driven more by intrinsic motivations about work, rather than what their jobs or employers demand from them. “In contrast to men, who tend to be careercentric and want to maximize their financial return from work, women view work more holistically, as a component of their overall

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life plan,” He told Business News Daily. “Therefore, they’re more likely to approach their careers in a self-reflective way and value factors such as meaning, purpose, connection with co-workers, and work-life integration.” Women’s inclination toward a holistic, self-reflective approach could explain why female employees define leadership differently than some men do. Sixty-five percent of women (versus 56 percent of men) said they view leaders as those who share their knowledge and connect with their colleagues to help the team and the

business. “When women bring this attitude into managerial roles, it may actually make them stronger, more effective leaders,” He said. However, despite their advantages, Saba’s survey found that only 60 percent of women said they feel that they are leaders based on their participation in their business. Women may not always realize how poised for success they are in leadership roles, but their potential and abilities are undeniable. Business News Daily asked female leaders to share their thoughts on women in power. The reasons are listed on page 76.

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INTRA-AFRICAN TRADE FAIR TO DRIVE AFRICA’S DEVELOPMENT OF EXPORT MANUFACTURING

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he African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the Government of Egypt, hosted the first Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2018) from December 11–17, 2018, in Cairo, Egypt. The fair provided participants a platform to share trade, investment, and market information. It also enabled buyers, sellers, investors, and countries to meet, discuss, conduct, and conclude business deals. It was a resounding success and will now be held biennially. Rwanda will host the next fair in 2020. • Over 1,000 businesses participated • 30 countries were invited, over 42 countries participated • $25 billion in deals was targeted, $31 billion signed deals were recorded

“I congratulate Afreximbank and the Government and people of Egypt for collaborating with the African Union Commission to organize the inaugural IntraAfrican Trade Fair. Such an event helps bring about economic transformation on the continent. . . . If we are to create one African market, all African Union Member States must sign and ratify the agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area. I am glad that the African Union Ministers responsible for trade are here. I am sure they will do the needful and take us closer to realizing the vision of the African Union and Agenda 2063, which is an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens, representing a dynamic force in the global arena.” H.E. Albert M. Muchanga AU Commissioner for Trade & Industry

African Union Commissioner for Trade & Industry, H.E. Albert M. Muchanga, used the occasion to call on all Member States to ratify the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and make the vision of a single African market of over 1 billion people a reality. Giving his address during the opening ceremony, former Nigerian President and IATF Advisory Council Chairman H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo said “the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and events such as this Intra-African Trade Fair enthuse me about the prospects for Africa, and the opportunities to raise Africa’s bar to global competitiveness, which will be kick-started by intra-African free trade. It is our duty to create the environment where the entrepreneurial spirit of Africans can succeed.” Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said that the signing of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement has sent a strong message to the world that Africa is ready to chart a new path—a path to economic independence and a willingness to look inward for industrial growth. H.E. Mustafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, voiced the Egyptian government’s pleasure at hosting the IATF. He added that the free trade zone is a great achievement in African integration and pointed to the number of participants in IATF 2018 as “an indication of the necessity of this type of intervention.”

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FREE MOVEMENT TO BOOST TRADE AND INVESTMENT

he African Union (AU) has adopted a Free Movement Protocol and a draft plan of action to go with it. The idea was first set out in the Abuja Treaty, which was endorsed in 1991 at the establishment of the African Economic Community. The AU’s Protocol defines free movement as the right to enter and exit member states and move freely within them, subject to the states’ laws and procedures. It regards the freedom to travel or move goods across the continent as likely to boost the economic integration of Africa. The free movement of persons, capital, and goods and services will promote integration; PanAfricanism; enhance science, technology, education and research; foster tourism; facilitate intraAfrica trade and investment; increase remittances within Africa; promote mobility of labor, create

employment; improve the standards of living of the people of Africa; and facilitate the mobilization and utilization of the human and material resources of Africa in order to achieve self-reliance and development. The Protocol is aimed at facilitating the free movement of persons in Africa, as well as the right of African citizens to the right of establishment and right of residence anywhere on the continent. The right of entry includes that African citizens can travel without visas across the continent. There are several reasons why the Protocol is an important development. • First, it will directly affect ordinary people. Until now, the effects of most of the AU’s treaties and protocols have filtered down to people’s lives from a distance, if at all. This

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Protocol applies directly to citizens’ movement. • Second, it moves the AU closer to the progress that sub- regional groupings have made on migration. For example, the East African Community (EAC) launched its passport in 1999 and has recently started a process to issue an EAC e-passport. • Lastly, free movement of people in other regions has been beneficial. For example, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reports that the average unemployment rate has been lowered by 6 percent in Europe due to free movement within the European Union (EU). And according to the International Monetary Fund, free movement has resulted in better institutions and better economic management in Eastern Europe.

The African Passport

Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Chadian President Idriss Déby, flanked by then-African Union Commission Chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, show off their new pan-African passports at the AU summit in Kigali in July 2016.

Advantages of Free Movement There’s a great deal of evidence that migration boosts the economies of receiving countries. Free movement in Africa can be expected to enhance business and investment as the EU example has shown. According to an African Development Bank report, tourism in the Seychelles increased by 7 percent annually between 2009 and 2014 when the country abolished visas for African nationals. By 2015, thanks to increased revenues, it had become a high-income country with thriving real estate, aviation, and service industries. The same report also states that African travel to Rwanda has increased by 22 percent since it eased its visa requirements in 2013. Since then, Rwanda’s cross-border trade with Kenya and Uganda has increased by 50 percent. This is evidence that free movement of labor and capital boosts economic activity.

During the July 2016 AU Summit in Kigali, the Assembly officially launched the common, electronic, biometric African passport, that would facilitate free movement of persons across Africa. In July 2018, Chiefs of Immigration from African Union Member States met in Nairobi, Kenya, to review the draft guidelines for the design, production, and issuance of the African passport.

The African Union’s Agenda 2063 identifies free movement of persons as a key ingredient for achieving other development aspirations. Free movement of persons in Africa is expected to deliver several key benefits including:

BENEFITS Boosting intra-Africa trade, commerce, and tourism Facilitating labor mobility, intra-Africa knowledge, and skills transfer Promoting pan-African identity, social integration, and tourism Improving trans-border infrastructure and shared development Fostering a comprehensive approach to border management Promoting rule of law, human rights, and public health

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FREE MOVEMENT OF PEOPLE AND PROSPERITY Mobility of people, goods, and services are the core for Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regional integration, and they are mandatory elements for our success. Thus, migration and mobility of people should not be viewed as a threat, but rather as an enabler of integration and development. H.E. Fatima K, Mohammed AU Permanent Observer to the United Nations

igration, both voluntary and forced, have contributed to the demographic landscape of the African continent. The natural movement across political borders has always been part of the continentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. On one hand, mass migration and human displacement are direct products of war, violence, hunger, and poverty, but on the other hand, migration and mobility of people also have been part of livelihood strategies. Moving to a new place that offers better prospects is an important and common human act to diversify income and minimize risk, especially for rural households. Decisions to migrate are taken not only because of socioeconomic insecurity, food insecurity, and conflict, but also because of individual aspirations and prospects. Root causes of migration are complex and multiple; however

there has always been a strong relationship between food security, economic security, and migration. The link between migration and development is necessary to determine the root causes for migration. The enormous development challenges facing the African continent and the need to ensure inclusive growth across the economic, social, and environmental pillars of development is key to tackle motives to migration including poverty, conflicts, terrorism, political instability, and absence of decent employment opportunities. Mobility of people, goods, and services are the core for Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regional integration, and they are mandatory

elements for our success. Thus, migration and mobility of people should not be viewed as a threat, but rather as an enabler for integration and development. Inspired by the vision to build a continent that is prosperous, integrated, and peaceful, the African Union adopted Agenda 2063. There are two key goals at the top of Agenda 2063. The first is to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture, and the second is to modernize agriculture for increased productivity and production.

We need also to address migration, agriculture, and rural development together.

The youth population in Africa is a great opportunity that needs to be seized, above all. We need to unleash the creativity, initiative, and energy of Africa’s young population by scaling investment in health, education, science and technology, etc. In 2001, the then OAU called for the development of a Migration Policy Framework toward addressing some of the challenges of migration and creating a conducive environment for voluntary migration. This was adopted in 2006. The Protocols for the Free Movement of People under the African Union now provides a new vista through which Africans can move freely on the continent. The free movement agenda is also supported actively by the adoption of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These two important legal frameworks complement each other, and if coordinated effectively at the national, regional, and continental level, would ensure that Africa is able to fulfill the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the year 2030.

H.E. Fatima Kyari Mohammed

Poverty will remain the main cause of migration. Sustainable and inclusive spatial development, coupled with job creation in countries of origin, would reduce the need for young people especially to migrate.

Excerpt from an International Dialogue on Migration delivered at the United Nations Headquarters—March 2018

UN General Assembly, New York

2019

YEAR OF

RETURN

ONE 84

400 YEARS SINCE START OF SLAVERY (1619–2019) 1619—The first African “bondsmen” arrived in the English colony of Jamestown, Virginia.

AFRICA CONTINENT VOICE

Ghana’s President AkufoAddo proclaims 2019 as the Year of Return by Diaspora

hana has declared 2019 as a year of return by inviting the global African family to a birthright journey home to the country. At a colorful launch event held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, President Akufo-Addo said the time has come for people of African descent to make the journey back home. He said Ghana has opened its arms wide to welcome its brothers and sisters, encouraging all to come back home and invest.

Never again should Africans allow themselves to be enslaved. —President Akufo-Addo

According to the President, Ghana’s Pan-African leadership and legacy status were earned not by coincidence but by a conscious effort by the country to validate the struggles and strengths of people of African descent, and their links to Ghana. He noted the galaxy of African American intellectuals, leaders, and creative professionals like Martin Luther King Jr., W.E.B. DuBois, Maya Angelou, and Stevie Wonder, who have honored Ghana by their presence and have, in turn, been inspired by Ghana. President Akufo-Addo said never again should Africans allow themselves to be enslaved.

He paid tribute to the late Jacob “Jake” Obetsebi Lamptey who more than a decade ago launched a “Joseph project” to reach out to the African Diaspora. The Year of Return is the only centrally organized public-private partnership by an African nation to commemorate the quatercentenary of the arrival of Africans to the United States. The Ghana Tourism Authority, under the auspices of the Tourism Ministry, is coordinating the year-long calendar of activities in partnership with the Office of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, the Panafest Foundation, and the Adinkra Group. The Tourism Minister, Catherine Afeku, said the launch marks the beginning of an entire year celebrating the resilience of the African spirit. Madam Afeku said her Ministry is working with other public sector agencies to make the return journey easy and seamless. She said the recent passage of an Act by the U.S. Congress, H.R. 1242—400 years of African-American Experience Act, is a historically s ignificant milestone and presents a unique opportunity for Ghana. Source: myjoyonline.com

Cape Coast Castle, Ghana One of about forty “slave castles” or large commercial forts built on the Gold Coast of West Africa by European traders. It was originally built by the Swedes for trade in timber and gold, but later used in the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

AKÁTÁ I DOCUMENTARY An African American Woman’s Journey back to Africa By Victoria Gregg

n mid-2015, I purchased two DNA kits for my parents. After we received the results, my film cameras began to roll. I decided to call it Akátá Documentary. Akátá is a word believed to be derived from the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria in West Africa. The term is used among Nigerians and other West Africans in the United States to refer to African Americans. Unfortunately, it has a negative connotation that I want my African-born brothers and sisters to rethink. My father had predicted earlier that his ancestors would be from Sudan. His results revealed that 50 percent of his ancestors came from Cameroon, Congo, and the southern Bantu peoples, and he is 93 percent African. My mother, on the other hand, was convinced that she was from the Zulu tribe. Her DNA test results, however, showed that 64 percent of her ancestors also came from Cameroon, Congo, and the southern Bantu peoples, and that she is 100 percent African. Consequently, my roots are from Cameroon, Congo, and the southern Bantu peoples. The results made my family extremely happy and increased our pride in our African heritage. Prior to this, I had lived most of my life without any significant interest in my cultural identity. I am American, and I happen to be black, what else was there to know? However, people often assume I am African born, perhaps due to my features. I am an American, and my parents are from South Carolina. On days when I wasn’t patient, I would try to disassociate myself from the continent. I was ignorant and lost. After the excitement of the results wore off, I started researching my family tree. I discovered the slave

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owner who enslaved my ancestors, his name was Joseph Gregg, born in the 1700s (let me remind you that my last name is Gregg). I found out that part of his plantation was still preserved in Mars Bluff, South Carolina. My film crew and I traveled down south to follow my ancestors’ footsteps. Not only did I get to see the historical sites that they built, such as the slave cabins, churches, and schools, I also had the chance to meet a white distant cousin, and the 90-year old granddaughter of Joseph Gregg, my ancestors’ slave owner. You’ll have to wait for the movie to see that encounter.

Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora

It was now time to get acquainted with the continent that holds my birthright. For an entire year, I studied and embraced African culture. In 2016, I started attending a branch of the Redeemed Christian Church, a predominantly Nigerian church. Following that, I met several west African ambassadors and visited African embassies with the sole purpose of learning more about their countries. My African friends would invite me over to dinner and I would ask them questions about their culture. I had African garments made, even got blessed with a traditional Ivorian name, and took African drumming lessons. I listened to nothing but Afro Beats and African Gospel music that year. None of these experiences however, prepared me for what happened next. I had the opportunity to travel to Côte d’Ivoire as a guest of the government in the summer of 2017. I was so amazed at what I saw. I saw black people. I saw black people who looked like me. I saw black people who looked like me on billboards, doing business with one another, in loving families, and living life joyfully. To the people who are reading this article, this may not seem like a big deal. But in many parts of America, black people will never have the pleasure of seeing this with their own two eyes. I was in heaven! The Ivorian government and people treated me and the rest of the American delegation like kings and queens. We were there at the invitation of the government who wanted to take responsibility for the role Ivorians played during the slave trade, and to call the African Diaspora back home. Of course, the “Akátá Cameras” were rolling. Africa changed my life! My film has three primary objectives: 1. Teach African Americans how to reconnect with Africa through genealogy and adventure. 2. Attempt to heal the racial divide between white and black Americans. 3. Foster Pan-African unity through dialogue with Africans on the continent, African-born brothers and sisters in the Diaspora, and African Americans.

Photo Credit: Nkemjika Iris Odor

Victoria Gregg is the executive producer and the main lead of her independent film, Akátá Documentary, projected to be released in Fall 2019. She was a digital media manager for a well-known Native American Law Firm, managing social media brands for government agencies. Victoria holds advance degrees and certificates from Trinity Washington University, Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea, and Hawaii Pacific University.

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A People-Centered Organization

he African Union’s Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO) is designed to serve as a catalyst to facilitate the involvement of African peoples in Africa and around the world in the affairs of the African Union (AU). Its main stated goal is “to maintain Diaspora participation in the African Union agenda across departments, partnership frameworks, and the wide range of policy activity including the flagship Agenda 2063.” Its constitutive act also declares that it shall “invite and encourage the full participation of the African Diaspora as an important part of our continent, in the building of the African Union.” The African Diaspora refers to the communities throughout the world that are descended from the historic movement of peoples from Africa, predominantly from the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East, among other areas around the globe.

Thus the Diaspora Division serves as the focal point and hub for implementing the African Union’s decision to invite and encourage the African Diaspora to participate in the building and development of the African continent. Therefore, its main task is to serve as a catalyst for rebuilding the global African family in the service of the development and integration agenda of the continent. CIDO held its 2nd Diaspora Focal Points Workshop in Khartoum, Sudan, from 27–29 November 2018. The forum brought together participants from African Union Member States, Diaspora organizations from Australia, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Austria, United Kingdom, China, Regional Economic CIDO Director Communities, and Ahmed El-Basheer A. El Madani AU regional offices.

Diaspora engagement is a strategic priority of the African Union

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Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora

Citizens and Diaspora Directorate  Strengthening the

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The term Diaspora originates from the ancient Greek word diasporá, meaning “a dispersion or scattering,” found in Greek translations of the Hebrew Bible. The word first entered English in the late nineteenth century to describe the scattering of Jews after their captivity in Babylonia in the fifth century BCE.

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DIASPORA BY THE NUMBERS KEY FACTS ABOUT BLACK IMMIGRANTS IN THE UNITED STATES

mmigrants are making up a growing number of the overall U.S. population, but the black immigrant population is growing twice as fast. There were 4.2 million black immigrants living in the United States in 2016, up from 816,000 in 1980, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of census data. Since 2000, the number of black immigrants in the United States has risen 71 percent.

Much of the recent growth in the black immigrant population has been fueled by African migration. Africans made up 39 percent of the overall black immigrant population in 2016, up from 24 percent in 2000. Still, about half (49 percent) of all foreign-born blacks living in the United States in 2016 were from the Caribbean.

January 24, 2018 Pew Research Center

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The black immigrant population has increased fivefold since 1980.

Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora

A greater share of foreign-born blacks are proficient in English than the overall U.S. immigrant population, according to the Pew Research analysis of the 2013 American Community Survey. Nearly three-quarters (74 percent) of black immigrants ages 5 years and over are proficient English speakers. Some 43 percent speak only English at home, while an additional 31 percent say they speak a language other than English at home but report that they speak English “very well.” By contrast, among all immigrants ages 5 years and up, only 50 percent say they either speak only English at home (16 percent) or speak a language other than English at home but also speak English “very well” (34 percent). And among the two largest groups of immigrants, the shares that are English proficient are lower than among blacks.

Some 55 percent of Asian immigrants ages 5 years and older say they speak only English at home (13 percent) or speak English “very well” (42 percent). And about one-third (34 percent) of Hispanic immigrants ages 5 years and older say only English is spoken in their home (5 percent) or indicate they speak English “very well” but speak Spanish at home (29 percent). Given that half of black immigrants are from the Caribbean, where English is widely spoken, Englishlanguage proficiency rates are high among those from the region. Black immigrants ages 5 and older from the Caribbean (76 percent) and South America (82 percent) are the most likely to be Englishlanguage proficient, compared with 72 percent of Africans and 60 percent of black immigrants from Central America. Among black immigrants ages 5 and older, other languages spoken include French/ Haitian Creole (14 percent), Spanish (11 percent), Kru (7 percent), and French (6 percent).

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One Africa One Continent

One Voice

WWW.AFRICANUNIONPAGEANT.ORG

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Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora

AFRICAN UNION MISSION HOSTS FIRST-EVER MISS AFRICAN UNION PAGEANT Washington, DC

he African Union Mission to the United States held its first-ever African Union Pageant on Friday, December 7, 2018, and made Africa proud by spotlighting young talented African models from the Diaspora and the continent, clad in a variety of gorgeous traditional fabric. Lukwesa Morin, the reigning Miss Zambia Diaspora, won the prestigious title to become the new queen. She will represent the African Union as a Goodwill Ambassador throughout 2019, carrying the continental body’s key messages to various global audiences. She will also take part in activities to showcase the work of the African Union. The first runner-up was Natasha Mupenzi from Uganda, with Rama Dioum from Guinea in third place. The event, held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, showcased and celebrated African culture through fashion, music, dance, art, and beauty. Seventeen young women of African descent living in the Diaspora competed for the title. The aim was to raise awareness about important African issues; promote Africa through fashion, music, art, and culture; promote tourism in Africa; and rebrand the continent. Contestants were quizzed on their knowledge of the Berlin Conference of 1884–1885, the Pact for the Continuation of Colonization, the AU’s transformational agenda, and the recently signed African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). Several members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, movie and sports celebrities, Africans in the Diaspora, and the media attended

the event. The Ghetto Kids of Kampala (a troop of young Ugandan dancers), the Zulu Boys (drummers from South Africa), Rwandan dancers, and other performers entertained the guests at the gala. African Union Permanent Representative to the United States Ambassador Arikana Chihombori-Quao said that invited guests and other audiences certainly benefited from what was on show at the pageant, as it gave them an insight into the strength, intellect, and beauty of African women. “This event was not just about displaying elegant African women in beautiful clothes. It was also about telling the positive narrative about African people, which is often not understood or is misrepresented in the West as a continent of the poor, sick, and dying. With the pageant, which will be an annual feature, we also aim to bridge the gap between Africans in the Diaspora and those in the continent,” she said. Countries represented in the pageant included Nigeria, Benin, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Ghana, Zambia, South Sudan, Cameroon, Uganda, Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia, Guinea, Jamaica, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Chargé d’affaires at Zambia’s Embassy to the United States, Mr. James Chisenga, whose country’s contestant won, said the event made many Africans proud because it portrayed a true picture of modern Africa. “We commend the African Union for putting up such a fabulous show. It is easy to lose touch with one’s African identity when living away from one’s country. The African food was also great,” said Mr. Chisenga.

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MISS AFRICAN UNION PAGEANTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2018 www.missafricanunionpageant.org

PAN AFRICAN DIASPORA ASSOCIATION

here is strength in numbers, and Africa requires the active involvement of its sixth region to reach its full potential. The Pan African Diaspora Association (PADA) was constituted for this purpose. At its fundamental level, each Diaspora chapter will consist of the following groups:

PADWA Goals and Objectives

1. Pan African Diaspora Women’s Association (PADWA) 2. Pan African Diaspora Men’s Association (PADMA) 3. Pan African Diaspora Youth Association (PADYA) Each of these three groups will, however, have the same agenda: 1. Recruit other members of the diaspora to achieve a critical mass whose voice can be heard, recognized, and be a force in the African Union and African affairs. 2. Create a financial entity where each individual’s contribution coupled with others’ contributions will create the financial pool that can be leveraged to aid in Africa’s development without resorting to donor loans. 3. Undertake capacity building projects, such as Wakanda. In addition to the above listed, PADMA, PADWA, and PADYA can pursue projects that the natural character of each chapter and members will propel the group. Each constituent group will have the same options.

Create and maintain strategic partnerships that encourage exchange between Africa and the Diaspora Promote the health and well-being of the African Diaspora community Link African women entrepreneurs in the Diaspora with women entrepreneurs on the continent Create and maintain an online store to promote Africa and Diasporamade products and services Create and maintain a Diaspora registry Launch and maintain a $10 per month campaign: “Give us $10, your name, and we will make magic” Minimize the cultural barriers that hinder African Diaspora personal development and progress

PADWA FOCUS AREAS Agriculture

Communications and Public Relations

Faith

Education and Human Capital Development

Culture and Entertainment

Energy

Health

Infrastructure

Tourism

Legal, Policy, Ethics, and Governance

Monetary and Financial Affairs

Social Affairs

National Resources and Environment

Science and Technology

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PADWA

INVEST IN AFRICA MANAGING EDITOR “TAKES AFRICA” TO ALMA MATER —Boston, Massachusetts

rederick Nnoma-Addison, Ghanaian-born managing editor of the Africa Union’s Invest in Africa magazine, put the spotlight on Africa during the 2018 Alumni Awards Ceremony at Emerson College on June 2. Dressed in his regal African “Wakanda-like” apparel, he walked up to the podium on the Robert J. Orchard Stage at the Paramount Center and received the Distinguished Alumni Award for his work in the media and communications industries and his public service as a Commissioner on the Maryland Governor’s Commission on African Affairs since 2013.

Emerson College President Dr. Lee Pelton described Nnoma-Addison’s work in Washington, DC, as “important.” Nnoma-Addison and his wife Beryl, an electrical engineer, established AMIP News (Africa Media-Image Project, Inc.) in 2004 after his graduation from Emerson College and relocation to the Washington, DC, area. AMIP News works to counter the skewed international media coverage of Africa by providing more balanced and holistic news and information about Africans and the African continent, with the Invest in Africa magazine being just one of its channels.

Delivering his acceptance speech, NnomaAddison shared his journey from Ghana to the United States, the path that led to establishing a news organization—AMIP News—and some of his accomplishments in his efforts to bridge the information gap between the United States and African countries.

Nnoma-Addison and Emerson College make a good team. Both use communication and information to promote global dialogue and understanding. Global Engagement is one of the five core strategies of Emerson’s strategic plan. The Office of Internationalization & Global Engagement (IGE) is charged with fulfilling that goal by utilizing Emerson’s collective talent, energy, and human and financial resources to support compelling transformation and change in international education across disciplines and around the world.

. . . 15 years ago, I graduated with my degree, and like everyone else stepped into the unknown. I had an idea of what I wanted to pursue, but I couldn’t have ever predicted exactly how things would play out. . . . Today, I look back and I am really proud. Proud that I had the opportunity to film a State Visit documentary from the South Lawn of the White House in 2008; proud that I had the privilege of documenting U.S. relations with two

Founded in 1880 by Charles Wesley Emerson as a “School of Oratory,” Emerson College is now internationally recognized as the nation’s premier institution of higher learning devoted to communication and the arts. Many of the college’s 37,000-plus alumni can be found working in virtually every major media, entertainment, or arts enterprise across the country. The Emerson community was proud to welcome Nnoma-Addison and his family to campus, and learn about the African Union Mission in Washington, DC, and the Invest in Africa magazine.

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African countries in 2010—The United States and Ghana; The United States and Nigeria; proud that in 2017, I compiled and published an important book on U.S.-Africa engagement under President Barack Obama—United States and Africa Relations: The Obama Presidency; proud that I now lead a large team to publish the African Union’s Invest in Africa magazine three times a year, out of Washington, DC. But these are only the highlights; the sweet spots. The real story is the struggle and the battle that made each one of these possible. I will never have enough words to describe them, but they are worth it.

Frederickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effort in the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital to educate Americans about Africa is important work.

Dr. Lee Pelton President, Emerson College

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U.S. GOVERNMENT— ENGAGING AFRICA’S YOUNG LEADERS AND DIASPORA

Young African Leaders Initiative The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is a signature initiative of the U.S. Department of State to invest in the next generation of African leaders. Launched by President Barack Obama in 2010, YALI aims at educating and networking young African leaders with activities, including a fellowship to study in the United States for 6 weeks, follow-up resources, and student exchange programs. In 2014, the program was expanded to include four regional “leadership centers” in Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa.

Mandela Washington Fellowship The Mandela Washington Fellowship is YALI’s flagship program, bringing young

African civic, business, and community leaders for academic coursework, leadership training, and networking at U.S. colleges and universities.

Regional Leadership Centers The four YALI Regional Leadership Centers provide in-person and online training throughout the year in business and entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and public management. They also offer extensive opportunities for professional development and networking.

YALI Network Through the YALI Network, young Africans can connect with other leaders in their community, and access free online courses in topics ranging from entrepreneurship to human rights and civic participation.

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DIASPORA MOBILIZATION Diaspora Credit Union 2020

he idea for mobilizing resources in the diaspora is not new. Many small groups have explored the process, and some have had different financial resource mobilization processes. Africans in Boston (AiB) is mobilizing all African diaspora interested in pooling resources toward creating the first Diaspora Credit Union. AiB is conducting proper and thorough research with interested parties about the requirements and guidelines to open an official Diaspora Credit Union, including a structure that will support and sustain this initiative. Africans in Boston invite all Diaspora members to invest a minimum of $100 toward the creation of the Diaspora Credit Union. The payment process is through PayPal, www.paypal.me/africansinboston We can make this happen! Together we stand!

H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao visited Africans in Boston in September of 2018 and called for closer collaboration between the countries on the African continent and the growing African Diaspora communities in the Americas. In Boston, she led a conversation with over 50 African Diaspora members about the need to actively participate in creating an umbrella financial institution to support development initiatives that will be managed by the Diaspora. The ambassador encouraged the Diaspora to develop a credit union that could amass $1 billion or more in assets as an instrument to leverage investment in business and economic opportunities in Africa. According to H.E. Dr. Arikana ChihomboriQuao, “an engaged diaspora is the catalyst for the future development and empowerment of Africans abroad and on the continent.”

Courtesy: Africans in Boston representing the Diaspora in New England. www.africansinboston.org

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Agenda 2063 and the Diaspora

AiB President, Voury Ignegongba, highlights key milestones achieved by the Diaspora in New England, September 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7, 2018.

AU Ambassador Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao with members of the diaspora at Boston University.

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AFRICANS IN

MINNESOTA

to Africa. BFA announced new partnerships with the African Union and The BetterWorld Trust, which will lead to tens of thousands of books being shipped to students in need. It has donated 22,000 books to the African Union headquarters library in Addis, Ababa.

ENDING THE BOOK FAMINE IN AFRICA

ooks For Africa (BFA) collects, sorts, ships, and distributes books to students of all ages in Africa. The organization celebrated its 30th Anniversary Gala event on September 28, 2018, with over 500 BFA supporters and VIPs from around the world in attendance. The fundraising efforts at the gala were a resounding success, with over $220,000 raised to send more high-quality books

Books For Africa remains the largest shipper of donated text and library books to the African continent, shipping over 41 million books to all 55 countries on the African continent since 1988. In fiscal year 2018 alone, Books For Africa shipped 2.3 million books, and 123 computers and e-readers containing 283,000 digital books to 29 African countries. More than $2.2 million was raised last year to ship these books to the students of Africa.

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Books For Africa Celebrates 30 Years with AU Ambassador to the U.S. and Friends of Africa

Nicollet Island Pavilion, Minneapolis

H.E. Dr. Chihombori-Quao —AU

Tom Warth —Founder, Books For Africa

Jote Tadasse —Board President, Books For Africa

Ambassador Carlos dos Santos —Mozambique

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TRUMP

ADMINISTRATION’S

NEW AFRICA STRATEGY Delivered by Ambassador John R. Bolton

National Security Advisor December 13, 2018 The Heritage Foundation, Washington, DC. —Excerpts from speech

his strategy is the result of an intensive interagency process and reflects the core tenets of President Trump’s foreign policy doctrine. Importantly, the strategy remains true to his central campaign promise to put the interests of the American people first, both at home and abroad. We have prioritized developing this document because we understand that lasting stability, prosperity, independence, and security on the African continent are in the national security interest of the United States. Under our new approach, every decision we make, every policy

we pursue, and every dollar of aid we spend will further U.S. priorities in the region. In particular, the strategy addresses three core U.S. interests on the continent: First, advancing U.S. trade and commercial ties with nations across the region to the benefit of both the United States and Africa. We want our economic partners in the region to thrive, prosper, and control their own destinies. In America’s economic dealings, we ask only for reciprocity, never for subservience.

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Second, countering the threat from Radical Islamic Terrorism and violent conflict. ISIS, al-Qaida, and their affiliates all operate and recruit on the African continent, plotting attacks against American citizens and targets. Any sound U.S. strategy toward Africa must address this serious threat in a comprehensive way. Third, we will ensure that U.S. taxpayer dollars for aid are used efficiently and effectively. The United States will no longer provide indiscriminate assistance across the entire continent, without focus or prioritization. And, we will no longer support unproductive,

unsuccessful, and unaccountable UN peacekeeping missions. Under our new Africa strategy, we will target U.S. funding toward key countries and particular strategic objectives. All U.S. aid on the continent will advance U.S. interests, and help African nations move toward self-reliance. Our first priority, enhancing U.S. economic ties with the region, is not only essential to improving opportunities for American workers and businesses; it is also vital to safeguarding the economic independence of African states and protecting U.S. national security interests.

A Direct Counter to Chinese and Russian “Invasion” of Africa Great power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa. They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States. From 2016 to 2017, China’s foreign direct investment toward Africa totaled $6.4 billion. And, over the past several years, China has devoted considerable state-directed and statesupported financing to projects in the region. China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing’s wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption and do not meet the same environmental or ethical standards as U.S. developmental programs. Such predatory actions are sub-components of broader Chinese strategic initiatives, including “One Belt, One Road”—a plan to develop a series of trade routes leading to and from China with the ultimate goal of advancing Chinese global dominance. In Africa, we are already seeing the disturbing effects of China’s quest to obtain more political, economic, and military power. The nation of

Zambia, for example, is currently in debt to China to the tune of $6 to $10 billion. China is now poised to take over Zambia’s national power and utility company in order to collect on Zambia’s financial obligations. Similarly, from 2014 to 2016, Djibouti’s external public debt-to-GDP ratio ballooned from 50 percent to 85 percent, with most of that debt owed to China. In 2017, China established a military base in Djibouti that is only miles from our U.S. base, Camp Lemonnier, which supports critical U.S. operations to counter violent terrorist organizations in East Africa. And soon, Djibouti may hand over control of the Doraleh Container Terminal, a strategically-located shipping port on the Red Sea, to Chinese state-owned enterprises. Russia, for its part, is also seeking to increase its influence in the region through corrupt economic dealings. Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance. Russia also continues to extract natural resources from the region for its own benefit. In short, the predatory practices pursued by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa, threaten the financial independence of African nations, inhibit opportunities for U.S. investment, interfere with U.S. military operations, and pose a significant threat to U.S. national security interests.

The American Alternative Here are some of the specific, bold actions we will take under our new strategy to address the three priority areas I have just highlighted. To expand our economic relationships in the region, we are developing a new initiative called “Prosper Africa,” which will support U.S. investment across the continent, grow Africa’s middle class, and improve the overall business climate in the region.

 We will encourage African leaders to choose high-quality, transparent, inclusive, and sustainable foreign investment projects, including those from the United States.  We will leverage our expanded and modernized development tools to support access to financing and provide strong alternatives to external state-directed initiatives.  We also intend to pursue modern, comprehensive trade agreements on the continent that ensure fair and reciprocal exchange between the United States and the nations of Africa. We will begin these negotiations on a bilateral basis and focus on creating mutually beneficial partnerships. Our new economic initiatives in Africa will help support American jobs and expand market access for U.S. exports, while promoting sustainable growth in African countries.  We will focus our economic efforts on African governments that act with us as strategic partners and which are striving toward improved governance and transparent business practices. e will also take several additional  W steps to help our African friends fight terrorism and strengthen the rule of law.  We will assist key African governments in building the capacity of partner forces and security institutions to provide effective and sustainable security and law enforcement services to their citizens.  We will expand economic ties on the basis of mutual respect. We will help African nations take control of their own economic destinies and their own security needs. I am honored to have had the opportunity to highlight the details of our plans here at Heritage today, and I look forward to taking your questions. Thank you very much.

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PRESIDENT TRUMP’S NON-AFRICA STRATEGY By Lawrence Freeman Washington, DC–based Political-Economic Analyst for Africa

who do not support the U.S. position on China and Russia. Blinded by their geo-political world view, the Trump administration displays disdain for the fruitful collaboration of China (primarily) with Africa nations in building vitally needed infrastructure across the African continent. In many cases constructing new railroads for the first time since the days of imperialist-colonial domination. The Trump/Bolton policy has already failed from the start. It is too late to stop Africa’s momentum for economic development with its allies. However, if the Trump administration were more thoughtful, it would formulate a strategy to assist African nations in reducing their massive deficits in crucial categories of infrastructure.

Return to a Real American Strategy for Africa

Lawrence Freeman is a Political-Economic Analyst for Africa, and Vice Chairman of the International Scientific Advisory Committee to the Lake Chad Basin Commission

fter waiting almost two years for President Trump to articulate his policy for Africa, last month he unveiled his U.S.-Africa Strategy, through the mouth of National Security Adviser John Bolton. It should be called the Non-Africa Strategy because it has little if anything to do with the continent of Africa itself. Rather, it is essentially a geo-political tactic aimed primarily at China and to a lesser extent Russia. President Trump has put his stamp of approval on the age-old British inspired geo-political ideology that views foreign policy as a “global zero-sum game”—a world with only winners and losers among the super-powers. All other (lesser) nations are treated simply as movable pieces in their fantasy game. In other words, in this administration’s policy, Africa is a pawn on their geo-political chess board. Sadly, this so-called African stratagem shows no concern for well-being of the African people, doing nothing to improve the conditions of life on the continent, nor does it enhance U.S. security. Bolton explicitly attacks China’s new paradigm in foreign policy— the Belt and Road Initiative—while threatening African nations

The promotion of human life should (must) be the most important goal of all foreign policy. Human beings uniquely possess the cognitive-creative mental capacity to transform the physical universe. Only through new scientific discoveries by a sovereign human mind, can we ensure the continued material-biological propagation of our human race. Thus, the promotion of physical (not financial) economic growth, which sustains human progress, is the core of any competent “good neighbor” foreign policy.

Africa’s Future Africa’s population is projected to expand to 2.5 billion people in 2050—a generation and a half from now. The continent is well situated to become the center of world commerce, with its expanding population, vast tracts of arable land, and its abundance of natural resources. To secure this future, Africa needs trillions of dollars invested in infrastructure. There is no “zero sum” competition. Africa’s friends should cooperate in promoting the limitless number of infrastructure projects that Africa desperately needs. If Africa and its allies fail to fully develop its enormous potential, and African nations are unable to productively employ and instill hope for a better future to the continent’s projected 2050 population of a billion young people, then we should anticipate perilously new levels of instability and insecurity. It should be obvious to all, including President Trump and his advisers that there will be no security without economic development. It would be best for both the United States and Africa, for President Trump to jettison this terribly flawed policy and advance a real American vision for the continent. This should include collaboration with China on building transformative infrastructure such as the Transaqua inter-basin water transfer project to refurbish the shrinking Lake Chad.

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TRUMP, KENYATTA COMMIT TO EXPAND U.S.-KENYA ECONOMIC COOPERATION The White House, August 27, 2018

resident Donald J. Trump welcomed President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya to the White House today. In marking 55 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Kenya, and in recognition of the growing scope and depth of the engagements between the two countries, the leaders resolved to elevate the relationship to a Strategic Partnership, affirming it as a cornerstone of peace, stability, and good governance in Africa and the Indian Ocean region. This United States–Kenya Strategic Partnership will include an annual dialogue to advance mutual prosperity. President Trump commended the Kenya Defense Forces for their service and sacrifice in combatting al-Shabaab and ISIS in Somalia. President Trump also lauded Kenya for taking a leading role in the East African fight against terrorism and

for its sustained dedication to this effort. The leaders reaffirmed and strengthened their commitment to continued counterterrorism cooperation against violent extremists who seek to take innocent lives and deny fundamental human rights. To further enhance this counterterrorism collaboration, President Trump welcomed Kenya’s decision to join the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. President Trump also thanked President Kenyatta for his diplomatic efforts to bring peace to South Sudan and to the region more widely. The leaders pledged to deepen defense and security cooperation, building on the recent acquisition of military equipment made in the United States and committed to further enhance Kenya Defense Forces capabilities. Further, the United States pledged to strengthen

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Kenya’s national disaster and crisis response capacity. President Kenyatta thanked President Trump for the United States’ continued support of the Kenyatta administration’s efforts toward greater accountability, transparency, and institution building. As democracies committed to a rulesbased international order, the United States and Kenya share a common vision for free and open societies. This includes global freedom of navigation, particularly in the IndoPacific region. The leaders committed to expand their economic cooperation aimed at making their nations stronger and their citizens more prosperous. In this regard, President Trump thanked President Kenyatta for hosting the U.S. delegation of the Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa.

Africa and U.S. Engagement

Photos: The White House To further enhance the economic partnership, the two leaders agreed to establish a U.S.–Kenya Trade and Investment Working Group to explore ways to deepen ties between the two countries. Further, the Presidents are pleased to announce that their governments established direct flights between Nairobi and New York City, a move that will expand the economic and cultural ties between the two great countries.

Mrs. Trump and Mrs. Kenyatta enjoyed an afternoon together with an open dialogue focused on their common goals and their respective initiatives on behalf of children. Mrs. Trump’s Be Best campaign and Mrs. Kenyatta’s Beyond Zero Initiative are united under the goal of improving and protecting the well-being of children.

Recognizing the importance of high-quality infrastructure, President Trump and President Kenyatta welcomed the proposal by U.S. engineering and construction firm Bechtel Corporation to build a modern superhighway from Nairobi to Mombasa. Both sides agreed to undertake further consultations to conclude the terms of the financing agreement.

Mrs. Trump plans to visit Africa in October, further reinforcing the deep and long-standing partnerships between the United States and many African countries.

This and nearly $900 million in other commercial deals and engagements announced during the visit are expected to create thousands of American and Kenyan jobs, further enhancing the prosperity and economic competitiveness of both nations.

“The determination with which Kenya strives to create better lives for its children is a shared compassion with the United States,” said First Lady Melania Trump. “I am very much looking forward to visiting Africa. Thank you to First Lady Margaret Kenyatta for coming to the White House today. I look forward to future opportunities for us to collaborate.”

Office of the Press Secretary

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BILATERAL MEETINGS

Egypt and the United States

Official White House Photo

PRESIDENT TRUMP: It’s a great honor to be with President Al-Sisi, a friend—a great friend—of Egypt. And we have very special things happening. Our relationship has never been stronger. And we’re working with Egypt on many different fronts, including military and trade. PRESIDENT AL-SISI: (As interpreted.) Mr. President, it’s a great pleasure to be here, and the honor is all mine. Being here and having this meeting really speaks volumes of the magnitude of the relationship between Egypt and the United States. We have a long-standing relationship for 40 years now. And during your term, Mr. President, our relationship has led us to even more support. Thank you. September 24, 2018 New York, United Nations Headquarters

Honored to meet with Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia today at the @WhiteHouse. I applaud his historic reform efforts, including improving respect for human rights, reforming the business environment, and making peace with Eritrea.

Ethiopia and the United States

4:58 PM —July 27, 2018

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Official White House Photo

Vice President Mike Pence @VP

Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met with Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Nasser Bourita. They discussed opportunities to expand our strong economic and security cooperation, including shared efforts to end Iranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support for terrorism and counter its malign influence in the region. Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Bourita agreed to hold the next session of the U.S.-Morocco Strategic Dialogue in Washington next year. They also discussed other regional and international issues. September 17, 2018 Washington, DC U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Heather Nauert

Sudan and the United States Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan met with Sudanese Foreign Minister Dirdeiry Mohamed Ahmed, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The two discussed the strengthening of U.S.-Sudan relations, expanding counterterrorism cooperation, addressing human rights, including religious freedom and humanitarian access, and bringing peace to

Photo: State Department

Morocco and the United States

Photo: State Department

Africa and U.S. Engagement

neighboring South Sudan. The United States will remain focused on achieving an end to conflict, supporting an inclusive national political process, and creating an environment for political reform and economic development in Sudan. September 24, 2018, New York U.S. Department of State, Office of the Spokesperson

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AFRICA & THE UNITED STATES PURSUE STRONGER COOPERATION

DDIS ABABA, Ethiopia— U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs H.E. Minata Samate met and discussed a range of topics of mutual concern on the continent, including the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), and unrest in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mali.

Ambassador Haley expressed the United States’ appreciation for the African Union’s partnership in UN peacekeeping operations, and both Ambassador Haley and Commissioner Samate stressed the need to increase the role of women in peacekeeping operations. Speaking at a joint press briefing at the AU headquarters, the U.S. ambassador expressed her

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country’s interest to continue to work together with the AU and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to defeat Al-Shabab and bring a lasting solution to Somalia. Ambassador Haley reaffirmed the indispensable partnership between the African Union and both the United States and the United Nations and underscored the leading role the African

Africa and U.S. Engagement

Union can play in stabilizing the region and in advancing peace, security, and human rights across the continent. Ambassador Haley was in Ethiopia as part of her visit to three African countries, including South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. She encouraged South Sudan’s two warring factions to take steps toward peace and security.

“The United States remains Africa’s preferred trade partner” H.E. Dr. Chihombori-Quao Meanwhile in Washington, DC, AU Permanent Representative to the United States H.E. Dr. Chihombori-Quao described the United States as a “Preferred Partner.” According to her,

America is still Africa’s preferred partner, despite talk about Chinese investment in Africa. “We were able to deal with apartheid because of support from America. There is much good will in Africa for America, but now we want America as equal partners. There are significant misunderstandings on both sides that are yet to be resolved, and I will continue to facilitate dialogue.”

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MELANIA TRUMP VISITS AFRICA

rs. Melania Trump took her first major solo international trip during the first week of October 2018. She traveled to Ghana, Malawi, Kenya, and Egypt. Since launching her Be Best campaign in May 2018, Mrs. Trump has had the opportunity to meet with children all over the world, promoting successful organizations and programs that share her goal of supporting and helping children.

Since becoming First Lady, I have had the privilege of speaking with many of the spouses of world leaders. Our discussions are always united by the universal desire to provide children with the support and tools necessary to grow up happy, healthy, and responsible adults. I am thrilled to be working with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on what IÂ know will be a meaningful trip.

First Stopâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Ghana

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Second Stop—Malawi

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Third Stop—Kenya

Fourth Stop—Egypt

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AFRICAN TRADE MINISTERS SPEAK WITH ONE VOICE AT 17th AGOA FORUM African Trade Ministers’ Consultative Meeting July 9–12, 2018, Washington, DC

“Forging New Strategies for U.S.-Africa Trade and Investment”

From July 11–12, the Trade Ministers made recommendations to the U.S. Administration. They pertain to improving

he AGOA Forum Ministerial Consultative Group meeting, held on Tuesday July 10, 2018, brought together Trade Ministers of AGOA eligible member states and Regional Economic Communities (RECs). The Meeting was convened at the World Bank under the theme “Forging New

Strategies for U.S.-Africa Trade and Investment,” prior to the State Department meeting (below) with U.S. government officials. It identified the urgent challenges that need to be expeditiously addressed to seize the opportunities AGOA provides during the remaining period of the legislation.

utilization of AGOA preferences, post-AGOA processes, and recent development to global trade.

State Department Photo

One Africa

AFRICAN TRADE MINISTERS’ RECOMMENDATIONS

One Continent

One Voice

WWW.AFRICANUNIONPAGEANT.ORG

Concerning Improving AGOA Utilization  Assist AGOA eligible countries in putting in place an effective and efficient mechanism for capacity building at the national and regional levels to maximize AGOA utilization.  Strengthen existing Trade & Investment Hubs and ensure they work in close synergy with the Regional Economic Communities. Furthermore, establish a Trade & Investment Hub in Central Africa.  Facilitate the organization of workshops on capacity building initiatives following the adoption of the AGOA and MCA Modernization Act.  In partnership with the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities, support AGOAeligible countries in developing a regional integration strategy to promote regional value chains. Open discussions on nontariff  barriers affecting AGOA exports, such as the lengthy registration process for consignments, cost of delays associated with the container security initiative, the U.S. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) and Cotton Fee, and the strict compliance to importation and distribution of alcoholic products.  Support the efforts of African Union Member States in the application of nondiscriminatory measures aimed at protecting human, plant, and animal life.  Ensure that any out-of-cycle review processes undertaken under AGOA are not disruptive of Africa’s regional integration

process and should take into account the level of integration of REC trade regimes.  Exempt sub-Saharan Africa exports from Section 232 measures.  Provide additional capacity to least developed countries (LDCs) and small and vulnerable economies (SVEs) in order to adhere to standards with a view to benefitting from AGOA.  Partner with AGOA-eligible countries to set up empowerment and training facilities for women and youth.  Share best practices with AGOAeligible countries regarding innovation, competitiveness, and standards, which could result in a higher rate of AGOA utilization.  Put in place the relevant incentive measures in order to attract and increase U.S. private investment in Africa with a view to accelerate the industrialization and diversification of African economies and exports.  Convene the first AGOA consultative meeting in Washington, DC, in line with the recommendations made at the 2017 AGOA Forum held in Togo.  Support the efforts of the African Union, in collaboration with the private sector, African Women Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP) and the Diaspora, in the organization of periodic trade fairs, which will rotate amongst U.S. states, in order to promote African products and enhance their visibility.

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Concerning Discussions on Post-AGOA Processes  Note the strategic importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area to African countries and the need to preserve policy space in order to promote the industrialization and infrastructural development to boost intra-African trade.  Provide clarifications on U.S. trade policy toward Africa, including how its policies and programs will support the continental integration agenda.  Start reflecting, together with the African Union Member States, through the proposed Consultative Committee, on the trade impact of post-AGOA 2025 on AGOA-eligible countries.  Consider, with the U.S. Congress, a post-2025 trade preferential program that would address the current inherent challenges, such as limited productive capacity and inadequate infrastructure.

Concerning Recent Developments on Global Trade Note the concern expressed by the African Union Member States that the current developments on global trade could have an adverse effect on the continental trade and integration agenda. Therefore, AU Member States call on all parties to avoid trade wars which could have significant implications for the economies of developing countries, especially in Africa.

Corporate Council on Africa’s President & CEO Highlights AGOA’s Merits Invest in Africa: How do you assess AGOA’s performance?

Florie: While still small with tremendous potential for growth, AGOA has contributed to the diversification of African exports away from natural resources and primary commodities to light manufactures in a number of African countries and, in the process, helped to create hundreds of thousands of jobs on the continent. I take some pride in the small role I have played in this positive story, and am privileged to be able, as President and CEO of the Corporate Council on Africa, to continue working with all stakeholders—U.S. and African government officials, as well as the American and African private sectors—to continue growing and diversifying the U.S.-Africa trade and investment relationship.

As a former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Africa for more than a decade, Florizelle (Florie) Liser traveled to many African nations, visited numerous factories, and promoted the kinds of U.S. and African policies and trade capacity building assistance to African businesses—particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—to become more competitive in supplying African products to the U.S. market under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). In a recent interview, Florie assesses AGOA’s worth and potential.

Invest in Africa: Is AGOA really benefiting Africa or is it hyped up?

Florie: We obviously celebrate the fact that the U.S. Congress recently extended AGOA until 2025. That allows sub-Saharan Africa nations to export more than 6,000 products to the U.S. duty-free. Since AGOA became law in 2000, total U.S.–sub-Saharan Africa two-way trade has risen to $39 billion in 2017. Now, that is significant. Of total U.S. imports from sub-Saharan Africa countries of $24.9 billion, AGOA imports totaled $10.8 billion, and AGOA non-oil imports have more than tripled from $1.4 billion in 2001 to $4.3 billion in 2017. This is mainly due to increased value-added and nontraditional imports from African nations, including automotive and automotive parts, apparel, fruits and nuts, cocoa and cocoa products, prepared vegetables, footwear, and cut flowers. AGOA has real positive results to show; but it can be so much better, and that’s why we are here.

Invest in Africa: Thank you very much for your time.

Florie: Thank you

Florizelle (Florie) Liser is the third President and CEO of the Corporate Council on Africa and the first female to occupy the position since its founding in 1993. The Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) in Washington, DC, is a notable U.S. business association focused on U.S.-Africa trade and investment.

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Sankofa “Go back and Get it”

“It is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.” Twi (tch-wee) language of Ghana

Sankofa also refers to the Asante Adinkra symbol represented either by a bird with its head turned backwards while its feet face forward carrying a precious egg in its mouth, or with a stylized heart shape.

Courtesy of Ayiba Magazine

Chairman Faki invites the African Diaspora to “Visit” home

Martha Martha and and Niki Niki

hairman Faki Mahamat has renewed his call to the Diaspora to “visit home,” especially in view of the significance of the year 2019—The Year of Return.

Black Caucus (CBC), and before addressing the representatives of the African Diaspora and African American community in the Washington, DC, area.

He first made this call in November 2017, during a meeting with Representative Karen Bass and other members of the Congressional

The discussions during both meetings focused on the need to strengthen the partnership between Africa and America, in particular narrowing

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the gap and bringing the African Americans/Diaspora closer to Africa to better contribute to the development of the continent in their capacity as Africa’s sixth region. The AU considers the Diaspora to be the sixth region of the continent with the current five regions being southern, eastern, western, central, and northern Africa.

REPRESENTATIVE KAREN BASS ADVOCATES FOR AFRICA The African Union Mission thanks Representative Bass and all other members of the Diaspora who work tirelessly to uplift the continent of Africa. H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao

Representative Bass (center) with U.S. Ambassadors Donald Booth (left) and Michael Battle (right) at the AU Headquarters, Addis Ababa

The African continent has long captured international attention, for its cultural and societal diversity, its awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife, as well for the social and political challenges. Over the last fifty years, the continent has emerged more peaceful and stable than at any other time in contemporary history. And for over a decade now, several African nations

have experienced double-digit or near double-digit economic growth. One of my goals is to transform how we think and engage African nations and to promote the many opportunities to promote trade and economic growth between the United States and African nations. My top priority is the African Growth and Opportunities Act or AGOA, our country’s trade preference program

with eligible African nations. While conflict and global health challenges remain a concern and must be addressed, African nations are eager to engage the United States—in particular, Congress—on trade versus aid opportunities. Representative Karen Bass Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Africa Convener, The Africa Policy Breakfast Series

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PRESIDENT OBAMA INVOKES MANDELA’S VALUES AT CENTENARY CELEBRATION IN SOUTH AFRICA Tuesday, July 17, 2018—President Obama delivered the 16th Nelson Mandela Annual Lecture in Johannesburg. He talked about how we can create the conditions to bridge divides, make change across ideological lines, and work together to resist oppression and inequality. The following day, July 18th, marked Mandela Day—the 100th anniversary of the South African leader’s birth—and people around the world honored him by making a commitment to help make the world a better place.

One hundred years ago, Nelson Mandela was born in the South African village of Mvezo. On Wednesday [July 18], I had the honor of celebrating his remarkable life by sharing a few lessons I’ve taken from him with the people of South Africa. I’d like to share what I believe to be the most important of those lessons today. And I’d like to ask you to make a commitment, right here, right now, to honor the life of one of history’s great giants. Tell me what you’re doing, no matter how large or small, to make the world a better place.

believe that the most important thing that we can take away from Madiba’s life today is that the persistent struggle for hope, for justice and equality—for the long walk to freedom—requires a belief in youth. As strong as Madiba’s spirit may have been, he would not have sustained his hope had he been alone in his struggle. Part of what buoyed him up was that he knew that, each year, the ranks of young leaders were replenishing. He knew that young men and women—black and Indian and white, from across the

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countryside, across the continent, around the world—would, in those most difficult days, keep working on behalf of his vision. Today, more than ever, I believe in Nelson Mandela’s vision: that every generation has the opportunity to remake the world. Here, in South Africa, my Foundation convened 200 young people from across this continent who are doing the hard work of making change in their communities; men and women who reflect Madiba’s values; the youth who are poised to lead the way.

Photo by David Katz

Africa and U.S. Engagement

Then-Senator Barack Obama meeting Mr. Nelson Mandela, May 17, 2005. People like Abaas Mpindi, a journalist from Uganda, who founded the Media Challenge Initiative to help other young people get the training they need to tell the stories that the world needs to know. People like Caren Wakoli, an entrepreneur from Kenya, who founded the Emerging Leaders Foundation to get young people involved in the work of fighting poverty and promoting human dignity. People like Enock Nkulanga, who directs the African Children’s Mission, which helps children in Uganda and Kenya get the education they need.

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to join these young leaders in an act of service at the Far North Secondary School in Johannesburg to commemorate the anniversary of Mandela’s birth. Though the work we did was simple—cleaning windows, building benches, painting murals— it left me with a profound sense of hope. By working together to build a better life for the children of the school, this new generation of leaders was honoring Mandela’s life and legacy. And they reminded me of one of my favorite quotes of his: ‘There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time

and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return.’ None of us can rest on the accomplishments of the past, even those as momentous as Mandela’s. But if we live our values and empower our young people, then they can pick up the work of the last 100 years and lead us into the future. Honor Madiba’s life, and the way he changed the world by making a commitment to make a difference today. Even if it’s small. Especially if it’s small. Thank you. —Barack

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@ U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, BUREAU OF AFRICAN AFFAIRS

Ambassador Tibor P. Nagy being sworn-in as the new U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs (September 2018), leads U.S. engagement with Africa at the Department of State. The African Union mission congratulates Ambassador Nagy on his appointment and looks forward to working with him for the common good of Africa and the United States . . . We are blessed to have an amazing Africa Bureau which, in my opinion, is the best bureau in the U.S. State Department. The staff are responsive, attentive, and extremely supportive. We thank Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Ambassador Tibor Nagy for his leadership. Africa Bureau Rocks! H.E. Dr. Chihombori-Quao

mbassador Tibor P. Nagy, Jr. is a retired career Foreign Service Officer who spent 32 years in government service, including over 20 years in assignments across Africa. He served as the United States Ambassador to Ethiopia (1999–2002), Guinea (1996–1999) as well as the Deputy Chief of Mission in Nigeria (1993–1995), Cameroon (1990–1993), and Togo (1987–1990). Other previous assignments include Zambia, the Seychelles, Ethiopia, and Washington, DC. The African Union Mission in Washington, DC, is proud to partner with Ambassador Nagy and the Bureau of African Affairs, for the common good of Africa and America.

AMBASSADOR NAGY— Today is the sixth annual U.S.-African Union High Level Dialogue, and December marks the 12th anniversary of the U.S. Mission to the African Union. On this occasion, I am honored to address friends who believe as I do that Africa is a vibrant continent with all the home grown talent capable of transforming itself into a global economic powerhouse. For too long our predecessors have focused almost entirely on containing security and humanitarian crises to the detriment of establishing well-formed plans for spurring economic progress and solidifying democratic gains. While we still face significant security issues, and must remain vigilant to keep both Africans and Americans safe, today we must also plan for a more prosperous continent where young Africans will have jobs that keep them at home and will contribute to the development of a continent that will be the envy of the world.

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COLLABORATION U.S.-AU collaboration has been laying the groundwork for a stronger Africa for many years and has done so through a collaborative spirit and clear priorities. Our mutual interests are enshrined in four pillars, which are: Promoting economic growth, trade, and investment Advancing peace and security across the continent Promoting strong democratic institutions and good governance Promoting opportunity and development

Senior AU and U.S. officials.

U.S.-AU HIGH LEVEL DIALOGUE

An old African proverb says, “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” We plan to go far together with our African partners.

“There is a lot of goodwill for Africa in the United States of America. Misunderstandings between both Africa and the United States must be addressed, and I will continue to facilitate dialogue”.

Ambassador Tibor Nagy

H.E. Arikana Chihombori-Quao

U.S.-AU High Level Dialogue, African Union Headquarters, Addis Ababa—Thursday, November 29, 2018

TRADE

EXTREMISM

The U.S. and Africa have made progress in expanding trade. In the first half of 2017, U.S. trade with Africa surpassed $18 billion, up 15.6 percent from the previous year. While trade is growing, continued economic growth will depend on integrated markets and policies that facilitate trade and investment.

The U.S. and AU recently concluded our second annual Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Week. CVE Week brought nearly sixty African CVE practitioners together from over twenty countries to collaborate, share best practices, and build powerful partnerships. CVE Week itself built upon an innovative exchange program designed by US-AU which sent nineteen CVE experts from across Africa—including five from the AU and regional bodies— to the United States for a 10-day program in July 2018.

One clear sign of this Administration’s commitment to supporting Africa’s economic potential is the BUILD Act, which President Trump signed into law in October. This will initiate the International Development Finance Corporation (IDFC), which will double U.S. investment capacity to $60 billion. With more capital to invest, we hope to unlock Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit. Also, progress made on the African Continental Free Trade Agreement [CFTA] is a game changer in how Africa’s trade partners now view the continent. We support the CFTA, and look forward to discussing how existing bilateral and regional trade relationships can advance this effort. I personally would like to see the U.S. establish a Free Trade Agreement with an African nation, which will complement the CFTA.

WOMEN The United States is committed to promoting gender equality and advancing the status of women and girls around the world. From President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to Power Africa, AGOA to Feed the Future, to the Young African Leaders Initiative, the U.S. has stood with African nations to improve livelihoods, increase life expectancy, open our markets to African exports, promote democracy and human rights, and elevate Africa’s place in the world.

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SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE HOSTS INAUGURAL FILM FESTIVAL

4 DAYS 80+ FILMS October 24–27

MILFORD GRAVES FULL MANTIS (2018)

SANKOFA (1993)

ROCK RUBBER 45S (2018)

KILLER OF SHEEP (1978)

TONSLER PARK (2017)

THE FIGHT (1974)

DIASPORADICAL TRILOGÌA (2016)

I AM SOMEBODY (1970)

FOUR WOMEN (1978)

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Washington News

Washington, DC, October 24–27, 2018

he festival was a multi-day cinematic experience celebrating African American visual culture and film. Attendees experienced historic films alongside contemporary works by some of the brightest emerging and veteran filmmakers including Barry Jenkins, Julie Dash, Adepero Oduye, Haile Gerima, Cauleen Smith, Kevin Jerome Everson, Bobitto Garcia, Bradford Young, and more. Attendees also had the opportunity to network with filmmakers and talent of more than 80 films. Events included screenings of some of the most iconic African American films from history and today, postscreening conversations with filmmakers and actors, master classes with industry experts, exchanges with the opportunity to share ideas about film production and the archive of the moving image. The 2018 inaugural film festival was organized thematically around the museum’s collection and inaugural exhibitions in the following categories: Making a Way Out of No Way Taking its inspiration from a popular African American expression, Making a Way Out of No Way explores themes of agency,

creativity, and resilience through personal stories of African Americans who challenged racial oppression and discrimination and created ways forward in times when there appeared to be “no way.” This collection of films will showcase the many ways African Americans crafted possibilities in a world that denied them opportunities. Power of Place A sense of place has deeply shaped African American history and culture. A multifaceted range of African American communities and identities have formed and changed in all corners of the country and, in turn, influenced the regions around them. This collection of films will explore communities in Detroit, New York City, and Washington, DC, among others. Cultural Expressions Cultural Expressions is a circular, experiential, introductory space to African American and African diaspora culture. These films include representations of Style: Image and Identity; Foodways: Culture and Cuisine; Artistry: Craftsmanship and Creativity; Language: The Power of the Word; and Movement: Gesture and Social Dance. Source: NMAAHC

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NEW AFRICAN AMBASSADORS IN WASHINGTON, DC Ambassador Martial Ndoubou of the Central African Republic presented his Letters of Credence to President Donald J. Trump on September 17, 2018. Prior to this appointment, he was the deputy chief of mission in Paris.

His Excellency Martial Ndoubou (Central African Republic)

Ambassador Ngote Gali Koutou presented his Letters of Credence to President Trump on June 22, 2018. Ambassador Koutou’s background is public law and he has held several high offices in the government of Chad. He was the president’s Chief of Staff before coming to Washington, DC, and has also served as the Director General of Chad’s national petroleum company. Ambassador Koutou is an army reserve officer and an officer of the National Order of Chad.

His Excellency Ngote Gali Koutou (Republic of Chad)

His Excellency Sankatana Gabriel Maja (Kingdom of Lesotho)

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On June 22, 2018, Ambassador Sankatana Gabriel Maja presented his credentials to President Trump and became the 17th Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho to the United States of America. Ambassador Maja’s background is in Finance and Administration. He worked for CARE (Cooperative for American Relief Everywhere), USAID’s Lesotho office, and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in Lesotho.

Washington News

Ambassador Mahamadou Nimaga of the Republic of Mali presented his Letters of Credence to President Trump on June 22, 2018. Prior to this appointment, he was the Foreign Policy Adviser to the Malian president and before that was Mali’s representative to the African Union. His Excellency Mahamadou Nimaga (Republic of Mali)

His Excellency Momar Diop (Republic of Senegal)

Ambassador Philip Jada Natana presented his Letters of Credence to President Trump on September 17, 2018. His background is journalism and communications. He has served as Ambassador of the Republic of South Sudan to the Republic of South Africa (concurrently covering Botswana, Angola, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, and Madagascar). He has also served as Sudan’s Ambassador to Eritrea and Seychelles.

Ambassador Momar Diop presented his Letters of Credence to President Trump on June 22, 2018. He is a senior career diplomat and a historian. He was the ambassador to the Netherlands and concurrently the vice president of the Assembly of States Parties, the management oversight legislative body of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague. He also served as Senegal’s Permanent Delegate Ambassador to UNESCO.

His Excellency Philip Jada Natana (Republic of South Sudan)

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ATIGS 2018

AFRICA TRADE AND INVESTMENT GLOBAL SUMMIT World Trade Center—Ronald Reagan Building June 24–26, 2018

TIGS 2018 gathered an astounding 2,345 delegates in three days. Attendees included key economic players from more than 70 countries, government delegations, African leaders, project developers, and international investors. The Summit had three primary objectives: 1. Promoting international trade in Africa. 2. Facilitating foreign direct investment in Africa. Providing a platform for businesses 3. to expand into Africa markets.

The Summit achieved the following: 1. It shed light on the challenges and key opportunities associated with doing business in Africa, through a variety of exceptional and carefully conceived conference sessions. 2. Provided investment, trade, and business opportunities in Africa. 3. Discussed mega projects in Africa. ATIGS 2018 exceeded expectations. The Summit’s theme “Driving Trade, Unleashing Investment, and Enhancing Economic Development: the Gateway to African Markets,” provided a unique platform mix for companies to expand and establish business operations in Africa and acquire strategic knowledge needed to establish and sustain market presence and success.

ATIGS 2018 Fact Sheet  2,345 Delegates Attended  Occupied 48,600 sq. ft.  Delegates from 92 Countries  2 Exhibition Halls  14 Conference Session Rooms  87 Exhibitors, 10 Pavilions  162 Featured Speakers  320 Panelists and Moderators  186 Accredited Investor Groups  27 Conference Tracks  7 Bilateral Tracks  24 Country Presentations  31 Delegation Groups  262 High Level Government Dignitaries  3 Venues  11 Mega Sponsors  75 Supporting Partners  62 Featured Media Partners  54 Partners  150+ National Trade & Investment Agencies/Organizations (TPOs, IPAs, EDOs, and IDOs)  One-on-One meetings with Vice Presidents, Ministers, Governors, and Ambassadors  8 Networking Programs  6 Sectors of Focus  13 Sector Briefings  Red Carpet Awards Ceremony  Arts, Culture, and Entertainment  Book Signings  Press Conference  MOU Signing Ceremony  VIP Lounge Side Events ATIGS Group, Inc. (Africa Trade & Investment Global Services) is a trade promotion, project facilitation, and development company that provides business development services to companies looking to expand or establish their business operations in Africa.

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Washington News

Bako Ambianda Chairman & CEO of Labacorp Group of Companies and ATIGS Group, Inc. Bako, 28 years old, came to the United States in August 2011 at age 21. He published his first book and launched his first company at 22 years of age.

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ATIGS 2018

FAREWELL TO AMBASSADOR BOCKARIE STEVENS A DECADE IN WASHINGTON

mbassador Steven’s decade-long tenure as Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States ended during the summer of 2018. H.E. Bockarie Kortu Stevens became ambassador of Sierra Leone to the United States on March 28, 2008. During his last year in Washington, he was the West African Regional Dean for the African Diplomatic Corps. Prior to his appointment to Washington, he served as Sierra Leone’s ambassador to Guinea from 1986 to 1992, under then Sierra Leone's President Joseph Saidu Momoh.

The African Union Mission, Washington, DC, colleague ambassadors, and the Invest in Africa magazine wish Ambassador Stevens and his family the best in their future endeavors.

Mel Foote (President and CEO of Constituency for Africa—left) and Rev. Dr. Jonathan Weaver (Pan African Collective/Greater Mount Nebo AME Church—right) present gifts to Ambassador Stevens on his departure—July 10, 2018 I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

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THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO OPENS NEW EMBASSY BUILDING IN WASHINGTON, DC

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EMBASSY OF MOROCCO

he new Chancery for the Kingdom of Morocco is located in the Van Ness neighborhood of Washington, DC, on International Drive NW. The four-story cast-in-place concrete structure prominently showcases Moroccan architecture with its ornate stone façade, entry, and driveway. Interior spaces have a number of high-end finishes imported from Morocco including custom millwork and trim.

Photos courtesy of Capital Engineering Group and Forrester Construction

The 50,000 square foot embassy building has office spaces, a multipurpose hall, public areas, ambassador’s quarters, and an underground parking garage. Morrison Architects designed the new embassy chancery and Forrester Construction built it.

Morocco and IMF Representatives Honor Women on Eve of International Women’s Day March 7, Washington, DC Morocco’s ambassador to the United States, H.H. Princess Lalla Joumala Alaoui (left), and Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde (right), co-chaired a ceremony celebrating the Kingdom of Morocco, its culture, traditions, and history. The event was held on the eve of International Women’s Day, and the two used the occasion to pay tribute to women around the world and called for tolerance and inclusion. Ambassador Joumala Alaoui said she was “delighted to be with Christine Lagarde, a world icon for women’s empowerment.” International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 every year. It is a focal point in the movement for women's rights. After the Socialist Party of America organized a Women's Day on February 28, 1909, in New York, the 1910 International Socialist Woman's Conference suggested a Women's Day be held annually The Moroccan embassy in Washington, DC, and the Diversity Reference Group at the IMF organized the event with support from Banque Populaire and Morocco's flag carrier Royal Air Maroc (RAM). Morocco rejoined the African Union in January 2017, after a 33-year absence, despite resistance from member states over the status of Western Sahara.

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AFRICAN EMBASSIES DIRECTORY ALGERIA 2118 Kalorama Rd NW Washington, DC 20008 202-265-2800 Ambassador Madjid Bouguerra

CHAD 2401 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-652-1312 Ambassador Ngote Gali Koutou

ANGOLA 2100 16th St NW Washington, DC 20009 202-785-1156 Ambassador Agostinho Tavares da Silva Neto

COMOROS 866 United Nations Plaza New York, NY 10017 212-750-1637 Ambassador Soilih Mohamed Soilih

BENIN 2124 Kalorama Rd NW Washington, DC 20008 202-232-6656 Ambassador Hector Posset

CONGO 1720 16th St NW Washington, DC 20009 202-726-5500 Ambassador Serge Mombouli

BOTSWANA 1531 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20036 202-244-4990 Ambassador David John Newman BURKINA FASO 2340 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-332-5577 Ambassador Seydou Kabore BURUNDI 2233 Wisconsin Ave NW #408 Washington, DC 20007 202-342-2574 Chargé d’affaires Mr. Benjamin Manirakiza CAMEROON 3007 Tilden St NW Washington, DC 20008 202-265-8790 Ambassador Étoundi Essomba CAPE VERDE 3415 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 202-965-6820 Ambassador Carlos Wahnon Veiga CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC 2704 Ontario Rd NW Washington, DC 20009 202-483-7800 Ambassador Martial Ndoubou

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO 1100 Connecticut Ave NW #725 Washington, DC 20036 202-234-7690 Ambassador François Nkuna Balumuene DJIBOUTI 1156 15th St NW #515 Washington, DC 20005 202-331-0270 Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh EGYPT 3521 International Ct NW Washington, DC 20008 202-895-5400 Ambassador Yasser Reda EQUATORIAL GUINEA 2020 16th St NW Washington, DC 20009 202-518-5700 Ambassador Miguel Ntutumu Evuna Andeme ERITREA 1708 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 202-319-1991 Chargé d’affaires Berhane Solomon

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ETHIOPIA 3506 International Dr NW Washington, DC 20008 202-364-1200 Ambassador Kassa Tekleberhan Gebrehiwot GABON 034 20th St NW Washington, DC 20009 202-797-1000 Ambassador Michael Moussa-Adamo GAMBIA 5630 16th St NW Washington, DC 20011 202-785-1379 Ambassador Dawda D. Fadera GHANA 3512 International Dr NW Washington, DC 20008 202-686-4520 Ambassador Dr. Barfour Adjei-Barwuah GUINEA 2112 Leroy Pl NW Washington, DC 20008 202-986-4300 Ambassador Kerfalla Yansane IVORY COAST 2424 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-797-0300 Ambassador Haïdara Mamadou KENYA 2249 R St NW Washington, DC 20008 202-387-6101 Ambassador Robinson Njeru Githae LESOTHO 2511 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-797-5533 Ambassador Sanaatana Gabriel Maja LIBERIA 5201 16th St NW Washington, DC 20011 202-723-0437 Ambassador Lois Cheche Brutus

LIBYA 1460 Dahlia St NW Washington, DC 20012 202-944-9601 Ambassador Wafa Bughaighis MADAGASCAR 2374 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-265-5525 Ambassador Eric Andriamihajamananirina Robson MALAWI 2408 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-721-0270 Ambassador Edward Yakobe Sawerengera MALI 2130 R St NW Washington, DC 20008 202-332-2249 Ambassador Mahamadou Nimaga MAURITANIA 2129 Leroy Pl NW Washington, DC 20008 202-232-5700 Ambassador Mohamedoun Daddah MAURITIUS 1709 N St NW Washington, DC 20036 202-244-1491 Ambassador Sooroojdev Phokeer MOROCCO 3508 International Drive NW Washington, DC 20008 202-462-7979 Ambassador Her Highness Princess Lalla Joumala

NIGER 2204 R St NW Washington, DC 20008 202-483-4224 Ambassador Professor Hassana Alidou NIGERIA 3519 International Ct NW Washington, DC 20008 202-516-4277 Ambassador Sylvanus Adiewere Nsofor RWANDA 1875 Connecticut Ave NW #540 Washington, DC 20009 202-232-2882 Ambassador Professor Mathilde Mukantabana SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807 New York, NY 10017 646-623-6606 SENEGAL 2215 M St NW Washington, DC 20037 202-234-0540 Ambassador Dr. Momar Diop SEYCHELLES 685 3rd Avenue, Ste 1107 New York, NY 10017 212-972-1785 Ambassador Ronald Jumeau SIERRA LEONE 1701 19th St NW Washington, DC 20009 202-939-9261 Chargé d’affaires Sheku Mesali

MOZAMBIQUE 1525 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20036 202-293-7146 Ambassador Carlos Dos Santos

SOMALIA 1705 Desales St NW Washington, DC 20036 202-296-0570 Chargé d’affaires Run Korshel

NAMIBIA 1605 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 202-986-0540 Chargé d’affaires Helena Gray

SOUTH AFRICA 3051 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-232-4400 Ambassador Mninwa Mahlangu

SOUTH SUDAN 1015 31st St NW #300 Washington, DC 20007 202-293-7940 Ambassador Phillip Jada Natana SUDAN 2210 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-338-8565 Chargé d’affaires Mohamed A. Abbas SWAZILAND (ESWATINI) 1712 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 202-234-5002 Ambassador Njabuliso Gwebu TANZANIA 1232 22nd St NW Washington, DC 20037 202-939-6125 Ambassador Wilson Masilingi TOGO 2208 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 202-234-4212 Ambassador Frédéric Hegbe TUNISIA 1515 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20005 202-862-1850 Ambassador Fayçal Gouiaa UGANDA 5911 16th St NW Washington, DC 20011 202-726-7100 Ambassador Mull Sebujja Katende ZAMBIA 2200 R St NW Washington, DC 20008 202-234-4111 Ambassador Dr. Ngosa Simbyakula ZIMBABWE 1608 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 202-332-7100 Ambassador Ammon. M. Mutembwa

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NATIONAL INVESTMENT ORGANIZATIONS: OFFICIAL INVESTMENT AND EVELOPMENT AGENCIES OF AFRICAN UNION MEMBER STATES

People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria ANDI, Route Nationale No 5 Cinq Maisons Mohammadia Algiers, Algeria T: +213 (0)21 52 20 15 E: sg@andi.dz www.andi.dz/en

Republic of Angola

Agencia Nacional para o Investimento Privado T: 001 202 962 0380 E: hcosta@anip-us.org www.anip-angola-us.org

Republic of Benin

Centre de Promotion des Investissements du Benin Cotonou 01 BP 2022 T: +229 21 30 30 62 E: cpibenin@yahoo.fr

Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry 01 BP 31 Cotonou, Republique du Bénin T: (229) 21 31 43 86 E: info.ccib@ccibenin.org www.ccibenin.org

UK Office Consulate of Benin Millennium Business Centre Humber Road London, NW2 6DW United Kingdom T: +44 (0)20 8830 8612 E: beninconsulate@hotmail.co.uk www.beninconsulate.co.uk

US Office 2124 Kalorama Road NW Washington, DC, 20008 United States T: 202 232 6656 E: info@beninembassy.us www.beninembassy.us

Republic of Botswana

Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority (BEDIA) Plot 28 Matsitama Road PO Box 3122 Gaborone, Botswana T: +267 318 1931 E: bedia@bedia.bw

South Africa office RSA 88 Stella Street 3rd Floor Building 2 Sandown Me ws PO Box 781371 Sandton, South Africa T: +2711 884 8959 E: mogaral@bedia.co.za

UK office Montle Phuthego 6 Stratford Place London, W1C 1AY United Kingdom T: +44 (0)20 7499 0031 E: montle@bedia.co.uk

India office No 43 Maker Chamber VI Nariman Point Mumbai 400 021 India T: +91 2243 602100 E: monangeno@bedia.co.in www.bedia.co.bw

Burkina Faso

Office National de Commerce Extérieur Direction de la Normalisation et de la Promotion de la Qualité Immeuble APEX – Burkina (ex ONAC) 30 Avenue de l’UEMOA BP 389 BF-Ouagadougou 01 T: (+226) 50 31 13 00 E: secretariat.onac@gmail.com www.iso.org

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Republic of Burundi

API – Agence Burundaise de Promotion des Investissements 3 Salah, Salem Road Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt T: (+202) 2405 5428 E: info@comesaria.org www.comesaria.org

Republic of Cape Verde

Palácio das Comunidades Palace of Communities Achada Santo António Beach CP 237 Cape Verde T: +2607911 E: info.ic@ic.gov.cv www.ie.ic.cv

Central African Republic

Ministère de l’Economie, du Plan et de la Coopération Internationale Rue Luther King, Bangui, Central African Republic BP 696 T: +236 21 61 78 11 / +236 75 57 E: info@minplan-rca.org

Republic of Chad

Ministère du Commerce et de l’Artisanat Palais du Gouvernement PO Box 4546 N’Djaména, Chad T: +235 52 21 99 Division de l’Industrie T: +235 52 21 79 / +235 52 27 33 Direction du Commerce T: +235 52 30 49 E: chad@wto.refcen.org www.primature-tchad.org

Republic of Cameroon

Cellule de Gestion du Code des Investissements (CGCI) BP 15304 Douala, Cameroon T: (+237) 342 5946 E: cgci2000@yahoo.com

Union of the Comoros

Comoros National Investment Promotion Agency T: +269 77 38 570 E: investcomoros@comorostelecom.km www.comesaria.org

Republic of the Congo

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Government of the Republic of Congo BP 2070 Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo T: 00242 814160 / 00242 814161 / 00242 814162

Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

Centre de Promotion des Investissements en Côte d’Ivoire 5ème Étage Immeuble CCIA Boîte Postale 152 Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire T: +225 20 21 40 70 E: info@cepici.go.ci www.cepici.gouv.ci

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Agence Nationale pour la Promotion des Investissements Avenue Colonel Ebeya, No 54 2nd Floor Immeuble de la Reconstruction (ex-Sozabanque) Kinshasa / Gombe Democratic Republic of the Congo T: +243 99 99 25 026 E: anapirdc@anapi.org www.anapi.org

Republic of Djibouti Invest in Djibouti

Rue de Marseille 1884 Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti T: +253 31 21 02 E: anpi@intnet.dj www.djiboutinvest.dj

Arab Republic of Egypt

General Authority for Investment in Egypt (GAFI) T: +202 2405 5452 E: investorcare@gafinet.org www.gafinet.org

State of Eritrea

Department of Foreign Trade Ministry of Trade and Industry PO Box 1844 Asmara, Eritrea T: +291 12 66 94

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Ethiopian Investment Agency

PO Box 2313 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia T: +251 11 5510033 E: ethiopian.invest@ethioinvest.org www.ethioinvest.org

Gabonese Republic

Finatra – La Financière Transafricaine Bord de Mer BP 8645 Libreville, Gabonese Republic T: +241 77 40 82 E: finatra@bgfi.com www.bgfi.com

Fodex – Fonds de Dévelopment et d’Expansion des Pme-Pmi

APIP – Agence de Promotion des Investissements Privés Boulevard du Bord de Mer BP 13740 Libreville, Gabonese Republic T: +241 76 87 65 www.gabon.golden-trade.com/cnt/gt

Republic of the Gambia The Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency GEIPA House 48a Kairaba Avenue Serrekunda, KMC PO Box 757 Banjul, The Gambia T: +220 4377377 E: info@giepa.gm www.gipfza.gm

Republic of Ghana

Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Public Services Commission Building Ministries Accra, Ghana T: +233 302 665 125 E: info@gipcghana.com www.gipcghana.com

Republic of Guinea

Guinea Private Investment Promotion Office – OPIP T: +224 41 49 85

Republic of Guinea-Bissau Ministry of Economy and Finance

Private Investment Promotion Office Rua Justino Lopes 74a Bissau CP 67 T: +245 20 36 70 / +245 25 48 07

Route de l’Aéroport BP 3896 Libreville, Gabonese Republic T: +241 44 42 30

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Republic of Kenya

Kenya Investment Authority Kenya Railways Headquarters Block D, 4th Floor Workshop Road PO Box 55704-00200 City Square Nairobi, Kenya T: +254 (20) 2221 4014 E: info@investmentkenya.com www.investmentkenya.com

Kingdom of Lesotho

Lesotho National Development Corporation LNDC Headquarters Block A, Development House Kingsway Street Maseru, Lesotho, 100 T: +266 22312012 / +266 52000214 E: info@lndc.org.ls / ce@lndc.org.ls www.lndc.org.ls

Republic of Liberia

National Investment Commission Airfield, New Road Chesseman Avenue Sinkor, Monrovia Liberia T: +231 77 333 222 / 78 73001 E: info@nic.gov.lr www.nic.gov.lr

Libya

Republic of Malawi

Malawi Investment Promotion Agency Aquarius House 1st Floor Private bag 302 Capital City, Lilongwe 3 Malawi T: +265 1 770 800 / 771 315 E: mipa@mipamw.org www.malawi-invest.net

Mali

Agence Pour la Promotion des Investissements au Mali Quartier du Fleuve BP 1980 Bamako République du Mali T: +223 20 22 95 25 E: contact@apimali.gov.ml www.apimail.gov.ml/api/en

Republic of Mauritania

http://www.economie.gov/mr

Republic of Mauritius Board of Investment 10th Floor

One Cathedral Square Building 16 Jules Koenig Street Port Louis, Republic of Mauritius T: +230 203 3800 E: contact@investmauritius.com

LIDC Tripoli Tower 9th Floor Office No 99 Tripoli, Libya T: 00 2 1821 335 1034 www.libyainvestment.com

Republic of Madagascar

Economic Development Board of Madagascar Immeuble EDBM Avenue Gal Gabriel Ramanantsoa Antaninarenina Antananarivo, Madagascar T: +261 20 22 670 40 / 681 21 E: edbm@edbm.gov.mg www.edbm.gov/mg

Republic of Mozambique Rua da Imprensa 332 R/C Maputo, Mozambique T: +258 21313310 www.moznusiness.gov.mz

Republic of Namibia

Namibia Investment Centre Ministry of Trade and Industry Block B, Brendan Simbwaye Square Goethe Street Private Bag 13340 Windhoek, Namibia T: +264 61 283 7335 E: nic@mti.gov.na www.mti.gov.na

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Republic of Niger

La Commission des Affaires Étrangères de la Coopération Place de la Concertation BP 12234 Niamey, Niger T: +227 20 72 27 38 E: an@assemblee.ne www.assemblee.ne

Federal Republic of Nigeria

Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission Plot 1181 Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama District PMB 381 Garki Abuja, Nigeria T: +234 290 4882 E: osicinfodesk@nipc.gov/ng

Republic of Rwanda

Rwanda Development Board Boulevard de l’Umuganda Gishushu, Nyarutarama Road PO Box 6239 Kigali, Rwanda T: +250 252 580 388 E: info@rdb.rw www.rdb.rw

Republic of Senegal

52-54 Rue Mohamed V BP 430 CP 18524 Dakar RP, Senegal T: +221 33 849 05 55 E: contact@apix.sn www.investinsenegal.com

Republic of Seychelles

Seychelles Investment Bureau Caravelle House 2nd Floor Manglier Street PO Box 1167 Victoria, Mahe Republic of Seychelles T: +248 295500 / 295502 E: sib@seychelles.sc www.investinseychelles.sc

Republic of Sierra Leone Sierra Leone Investment and Export Promotion Agency O.A.U. Drive Tower Hill Freetown, Sierra Leone T: +232 22 220788 E: infor@sliepa.org www.investsierraleone.biz

Somali Republic

Somali Business and Investment Council Cinwaanka Golaha Djibouti City PO Box 2693 Republic of Djibouti T: +253 35 46 48 E: info@somaliinvestment.com www.somaliinvestment.com

Republic of South Africa

Department of Trade and Industry 77 Meintjies Street Sunnyside, Pretoria Gauteng 0002 South Africa T: +27 (12) 394 9500 E: contactus@thedti.gov.za www.thedti.gov.za

Republic of Sudan

Ministry of Investment Khartoum – West Hilton T: +249 787193 E: investment@sudanmail.net www.sudaninvest.org

Kingdom of Swaziland (Eswatini) Swaziland Investment Promotions Authority

1st Floor Nkhotfotjeni Buliding Cnr Msakato & Dezeliwe Street Mbabane, Swaziland T: +268 2404 0470/2/3/4 www.sipa.org.sz

United Republic of Tanzania Tanzania Investment Centre TIC House Shabaan Rober Street PO Box 938 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania www.tic.co.tz

Zanzibar Investment Promotion Authority PO Box 2286 Zanzibar T: +255 (0) 24 223 3026 E: zipa@zanzinet.com www.zanzibarinvest.org

Togolese Republic

Sociéte d’Administration des Zones Franches 2564 Avenue de la Chance BP 3250 Lome, Togo T: +228 253 53 69 E: n.potcho@zonefranchetogo.tg

Tunisian Republic

Foreign Investment Promotion Agency Rue Slaheddine El Ammami Centre Urbain Nord 1004 Tunis, Tunisia T: +216 71 752 540 E: boc.fipa@mdci.gov.tn www.investintunisia.tn

Republic of Uganda

Uganda Investment Authority The Investment Centre Plot 22B Lumumba Avenue TWED Plaza PO Box 7418 Kampala, Uganda T: +256 414 301000 E: info@ugandainvest.go.ug www.ugandainvest.go.ug

Republic of Zambia

Zambia Development Agency Privatization House Nasser Road PO Box 30819 Lusaka, Zambia T: +260 211 222 858 E: info@zda.org.zm www.zda.org.zm

Republic of Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Investment Authority Investment House 109 Rotten Row PO Box 5950 Harare, Zimbabwe T: +263 4757 E: info@zia.co.zw www.zia.co.zw

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS African Union Mission, Washington, DC Staff

H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao

Permanent Representative to the United States

Tarek Ben Youssef Senior Political Officer

Josepha Musabyemariya Secretary

Adewale Ogunsuyi Administrative and Finance Officer

Gilles Makon IT Assistant

Seraphine Manirambona Policy Officer

Collins Rusingiza Procurement Officer

Miriam Menda Administrative Officer

Golmame Tefera Security/Protocol

Frederick Nnoma-Addison Managing Editor, Invest in Africa President & CEO, AMIP News

Beryl Nnoma-Addison Content Editor, Invest in Africa Vice President, AMIP News

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I N V E S T I N A F R I C A 2 019 : A F R I C A N WO M E N R I S I N G

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ANNUAL

IAGC CONFERENCE FEBRUARY 20, 2019 Accelerating Exploration, Expanding Energy Possibilities

Featuring the IAGC’s first-ever Africa Panel Participation SE Aziz Rabbah Minister of Energy, Mines and Sustainable Development, Morocco

H.E. Mustafa Sanalla Chairman of the National Oil Corporation, Libya

H.E. Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima

Wednesday, February 20, 2019 7:00 am–6:30 pm EST

Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons, Equatorial Guinea

Hilton Westchase 9999 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77042

Deputy Minister of Energy-Petroleum Sector, Ministry of Energy, Ghana

H.E. Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam H.E. Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao African Union Permanent Representative to the United States

Registration by February 14 www.iagc.org/events

Saifuah-Mai Gray, Esq. President/CEO of the National Oil Company of Liberia

Moderator: Paul Sinclair Africa Oil Week Director—ITE