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Email this citationCIAO DATE: 02/05
Shaping U.S. Policy on Africa: Pillars of a New Strategy
Johnnie Carson
September 2004
Abstract
Africa is in danger of slipping further on the list of U.S. foreign policy priorities because of Washington's preoccupation with Iraq, Afghanistan, North Korea, and the war on terrorism. Yet Africa is a growing source of petroleum and raw materials, an important trading partner, and an enormous untapped market for American investment.
The continent faces some serious problems and remains outside the mainstream of economic globalization and wide digital connectivity. Failure to address these problems will only increase the need for American assistance and involvement. With more focused U.S. engagement, Africa can become a stronger partner in addressing costly regional crises and mitigating global terrorism.
The next administration has an opportunity to refocus U.S. engagement in Africa and articulate a policy that reflects American interests, values, and priorities. Such policy can leverage U.S. influence and enhance its image in Africa while boosting the continent's economic development and political stability. This policy should rest on seven pillars:
- strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law
- encouraging economic reform and growth
- building partnerships in the global war on terrorism
- combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic
- expanding American trade and investment
- helping to prevent and resolve conflicts
- fostering regional integration.
It is also critical that Washington's relationship with various African states and leaders not be viewed narrowly or exclusively through the prism of the growing U.S. concern with combating global terrorism.
