Whitaker: US committed to rebuilding strategic alliance with Africa

The ongoing U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the United States and Africa, reflecting President Joe Biden's commitment to building strategic alliances with the continent. Rosa Wee-Taker, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Wee-Taker Group and a two-time former U.S. Trade Representative under Presidents Bush and Clinton, expressed optimism about the sincerity of the ongoing talks aimed at establishing new frameworks beyond aid. According to Wee-Taker, the U.S. has unfortunately fallen behind in its engagement with Africa compared to other regions of the world during a time when Africa is rising geopolitically, economically, and on the global stage. President Biden's internationalist and alliance-building nature provides hope for a revamped strategic alliance with Africa. Key Theme: The key theme of the U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit is the rejuvenation of mutual trust and the establishment of new frameworks beyond aid for a stronger strategic alliance between the U.S. and Africa. Key Points: 1. Evolution of U.S. Engagement with Africa: Wee-Taker highlighted the evolution of U.S. engagement with Africa, indicating that before 2009, the U.S. was a leading trade partner with Africa. However, more work is needed to shift from an aid-based model to one based on trade and investments. Despite committing over $80 billion in aid to Africa in the past decade, the results have been questioned. Initiatives like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) have shown success in boosting Africa's exports and creating millions of jobs, but there is still room for improvement. 2. Private Sector Engagement: The U.S. aims to enhance trade and investment relationships with Africa by incentivizing the private sector to invest in the continent. Proposals for tax incentives are being considered to encourage private sector involvement. Strengthening these ties can help African countries move up the value chain, especially in the green economy sector, where the continent holds significant potential for the global green revolution. 3. Rebuilding Trust: Trust is crucial in partnerships, and Wee-Taker emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust between the U.S. and Africa. President Biden's historic commitments to support Africa's inclusion in international forums, energy transition in South Africa, and green economy initiatives demonstrate a genuine engagement with Africa. The U.S. recognizes the significance of African resources for sectors like electric vehicles and is working towards sustainable partnerships that benefit both parties. Quote: Rosa Wee-Taker stated, 'I do believe this is a meaningful milestone in U.S.-Africa relations, only the second time in history. Definitely one for the history books.' The U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit sets the stage for a renewed partnership focused on trade, investments, and mutual growth. While the summit outcomes may not be legally binding, rebuilding trust and commitment to shared goals signal a promising future for U.S.-Africa relations. The involvement of the private sector, bipartisan support, and a focus on sustainable development bode well for a fruitful alliance between the U.S. and Africa.