"We believe in Africa's promise, we
are committed to Africa's future, and we will be partners with Africa's
people."
- Secretary of State Hillary Clinton
The United States has been a strong advocate of the nations of Africa since their independence, and remains determined to support its African partners in achieving the shared long-term goals of democracy, stability, and prosperity.
Building Strong and Stable Democracies
Governments that respect the will of their peoples and govern by consent are more successful and more stable than governments that do not. The United States will work with the international community and civil society in Africa to strengthen democratic institutions, including independent elections commissions, and to preserve the democratic gains made in recent years.
Supporting Economic Growth and Development
The Obama Administration's new $3.5 billion dollar food security initiative, Feed the Future, will assist 12 African focus countries. It will complement their own efforts under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program to provide critical tools to farmers, allowing them to build local capacity to expand production. The U.S. is also committed to working with our African partners to maximize the opportunities created by the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
Strengthening Public Health Systems
The African continent continues to suffer from the ravages of HIV/AIDS, malaria, cholera, tuberculosis, and hepatitis. The United States is a leading provider of drugs and treatment to those affected by these diseases, and the Administration has pledged to continue the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program and to commit an additional $63 billion over the next five years to meet public health challenges
throughout Africa. The United States remains committed to working side-by-side with African governments and civil society to ensure that quality treatment, prevention, and care are easily accessible to communities throughout Africa.