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Government
49

What is the past, present, and future of U.S. policy towards sub-Saharan Africa? Judd Devermont, Director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), and Nicole Wilett, Chief of Staff at the Open Society Foundations, sit down with diplomats, journalists, civil society activists, and academics to discuss policy recommendations for the Biden Administration. In 15 minutes or less, these episodes deliver the goods on U.S. relations with African countries, as well as share the best of African music, food, dance, film, and travel.

Latest Episodes:

Mali with Kamissa Camara Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

Kamissa Camara (Tony Blair Institute & USIP) joins Judd and Nicole to discuss U.S. policy toward Mali, including how the Biden administration can better encourage democracy and security, flex its diplomatic muscle, and rethink the international strategy toward the crisis in the Sahel. Plus, Kamissa recommends the classic Malian book Amkoullel, the Fula Boy by Amadou Hampâté Bâ.

Guinea-Bissau with Paulo Gomes Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

Paulo Gomes (Constelor Investment, New African Capital Partners) joins Judd and Nicole to discuss U.S. policy toward Guinea-Bissau, including why the U.S. does not have an embassy, how the Biden administration can reprioritize the bilateral relationship, and the importance of protecting the country’s islands and wetlands from climate change. Plus, they remember pan-African anti-colonial hero Amílcar Cabral.

Mauritania with Intissar Fakir Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

In the Mauritania episode of 49, Judd, Nicole, and Intissar Fakir (Middle East Institute) discuss the delicate balance between counterterrorism priorities and social justice initiatives in the West African country. Intissar calls on the Biden administration to bolster support for educational programs and urges the Mauritanian government to launch a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address the country’s recent history of slavery. Plus, hear what Chinguetti—the ancient trading center in the country’s north—means to Mauritanians today.

Niger with Ambassador Bisa Williams Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

Ambassador Bisa Williams (Williams Strategy Advisors) joins Judd and Nicole to discuss U.S. policy toward Niger, including why the Biden administration should pay more attention to Niamey’s complex relationship with North African states. They also explore the need for increased education as a key to unlocking economic development and democratization. Plus, Ambassador Williams describes Nigerien architecture in vivid detail. (Catch some of her own architecture snapshots on @CSISAfrica social media platforms!)

Background Reading

In Niger, an Architect Looking to the Country’s Design Traditions - Michael Snyder

Nigeria with Uzodinma Iweala Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

Judd and Nicole are joined by Uzodinma Iweala (The Africa Center) to explore the history of U.S. policy toward Nigeria, why the West African country should be at the center of any U.S.-Africa strategy, and how Nigeria can be a key player in the fight against climate change. Uzo also reflects on the new generation of Nigerian authors—to which he belongs.

Togo with Désiré Assogbavi Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

Let's talk Togo. Judd and Nicole are joined by Désiré Assogbavi (ONE Campaign) to discuss job creation, the need for value-added agriculture, and how to tackle the issue of illicit financial flows. Plus, how to avoid takeout deals and get the news you want when searching “Togo” online.

Angola with Zenaida Machado Jul 15, 2021

Show notes

Judd and Nicole are joined by Zenaida Machado (Human Rights Watch) to discuss Angola’s anti-corruption campaign, economic diversification, and contributions to peacekeeping, recommending U.S. policy that treats the nation as an equal partner and the versatile Angolan musician, Matias Damásio.

Botswana with Ambassador Michelle Gavin Jul 15, 2021

Show notes

Judd and Nicole are joined by Michelle Gavin (Council on Foreign Relations) to discuss opportunities that stem from shared interests in the U.S. and Botswana, recommending that the Biden administration approach Botswana as a flagship partner and proposing joint ventures such as water conservation projects in regions beyond southern Africa.

eSwatini with Cebelihle Mbuyisa Jul 15, 2021

Show notes

Judd and Nicole are joined by Cebelihle Mbuyisa (New Frame) for a special episode on eSwatini, discussing the recent protests and brutal government crackdown, and recommending that the U.S. government amplify the voices of those fighting for change. Cebelihle, a journalist covering pro-democracy protests, recounts his experiences as a victim of police brutality and highlights the experiences of fellow citizens in this critical moment.

Lesotho with Silence Charumbira Jul 15, 2021

Show notes

Judd and Nicole are joined by Silence Charumbira (Lesotho Times and Sunday Express) to discuss opportunities for U.S. engagement with Lesotho, including leveraging the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). They also point to cooperation in the health sector and admire Lesotho’s captivating poetry scene.

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