Programs

The Atlantic Council’s Africa Center promotes dynamic geopolitical partnerships with African states and helps redirect US and European policy priorities toward strengthening security and bolstering economic growth and prosperity on the continent.

Content

MENASource

Aug 19, 2025

Boulos’s North Africa trip reinforces US ‘deals, not aid’ strategy

By Alissa Pavia

The US senior advisor for Africa's visit to the region showcases that Washington still considers North Africa to be central to its foreign policy.

North & West Africa
Politics & Diplomacy

AfricaSource

Aug 15, 2025

Cameroon could bridge the gap in US cocoa and timber imports

By R. Maxwell Bone

As cocoa prices surge and timber demand grows, Cameroon stands out as a strategic trade partner. US firms and policymakers have yet to fully seize the opportunity.

Africa
Economy & Business
Empty hospital beds line the ward of the emergency unit at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, during a nurses' strike protesting poor government support.

AfricaSource

Aug 14, 2025

Biased credit ratings are costing Africa billions—and worsening its health crises

By Maggie Mutesi

As debt payments outpace spending on health and education, African leaders are renewing calls to overhaul a credit ratings system they say punishes reform and deepens fragility. Zambia is a case in point.

Africa
Civil Society

Inside the Taliban's gender apartheid

Aug 14, 2025

South African women’s resistance holds lessons for the women of Afghanistan fighting gender apartheid

By Farhat Ariana Azami

Farhat Ariana Azami in conversation with Gertrude Fester, a veteran South African anti-apartheid activist, and Munisa Mubarez, a women’s rights advocate from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan
Human Rights

MENASource

Jul 31, 2025

Gateways to the Red Sea: The case for Israel–Somaliland normalization

By Amit Yarom

Expanding the Abraham Accords to Somaliland could quietly anchor a more stable and cooperative Red Sea region.

East Africa
Israel

MENASource

Jul 31, 2025

Djibouti is the next arena for US-China competition in the Red Sea

By Emily Milliken

Washington could upgrade its Djibouti relationship and secure its foothold along some of the world’s most important waterways.

Africa
China

AfricaSource

Jul 23, 2025

The Sahel is pivoting toward Turkey. Here’s what that means for Washington.

By Jordanna Yochai

Washington will need to consider partnering with Turkey when it advances US interests—but it must approach any cooperation with clear eyes.

Defense Technologies
Sahel

AfricaSource

Jul 21, 2025

At Trump’s recent summit, the US talked trade. But West Africa wants security first.

By Rose Keravuori

During a mini summit with five West African leaders, the Donald Trump administration prioritized “trade not aid,” strategic minerals, and deportation agreements. But security in the Sahel—now the world’s epicenter of terrorism—remained a blind spot.

Economy & Business
North & West Africa

Issue Brief

Jul 21, 2025

Atlantic piracy, current threats, and maritime governance in the Gulf of Guinea

By Maisie Pigeon

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.

Africa
Economy & Business

AfricaSource

Jul 16, 2025

MMA’s arrival in Africa could transform opportunity for the continent’s youth

By Anthony Manga

Africa is no longer just a source of talent but increasingly a hub for global sports investment and innovation.

Africa
Economy & Business

Experts