Africa Center

US policymakers have long viewed Somalia primarily through a counterterrorism lens. But as major maritime supply routes come under strain, its position along key sea lanes is reshaping its geopolitical relevance—and external actors like Turkey are already moving to capitalize.

There is a real risk that the current war of words spirals out of control.

Foreign diplomats, US officials, and figures from the world of soccer gathered at our studios to talk about the power of sports diplomacy.

Africa is central to the global push for cleaner energy, including the continent’s stocks of critical minerals that power green-energy technologies. But a race to extract more minerals poses public health risks, from the occupational hazards miners suffer to new disease outbreaks in mining camps. There’s a better course for investors and African governments.

Limited access to electricity has long constrained both quality of life and economic growth across much of Africa. About 42 percent of the continent’s population still lives in homes without any access. While it is technically possible to rapidly increase African electrification rates through renewables, change on such a scale would require massive global investment that is not a realistic prospect in the foreseeable future. Africa’s untapped and associated gas reserves can provide part of the solution by supporting renewable energy in boosting electrification rates.

A drop in attacks in the Gulf of Guinea does not necessarily mean piracy has been resolved. Pirates have adapted their tactics, and the potential for resurgence remains high; this issue remains a critical security and development concern. It is not just a regional priority—it is an international imperative.

As Russia, China, and other authoritarian powers expand their global reach, US security is at stake. To stay competitive, the United States must turn to Africa—for both critical minerals and partnership in countering rising adversarial influence on the continent.

The creative industry has the potential to transform the African continent through economic growth and narrative change. As the demand for African innovations continues to increase, so will the need for the protection of creators.  

Frannie Léautier launches her new report “AGOA and the future of US-Africa trade.” AGOA serves as a key tool for both the United States and Africa as they look for ways to redefine and build their relationships.