Whether your interest is humanitarian or commercial, the opportunities for Delawareans to engage in Africa have never been as plentiful or productive.
Six of the 10 fastest-growing economies in the world are in Africa, making the continent one of the most appealing emerging markets in the world for U.S. businesses. The continent is enormously complex, however, with significant health, justice, and development challenges to be navigated.
Since being named chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs a year ago, I’ve talked with dozens of Delawareans with connections to Africa, many of whom are looking for assistance engaging in African countries or with U.S. organizations working on the ground in the region. Many of the advocates, entrepreneurs, and faith leaders I’ve met are not connected with other Delawareans who share their interest and engagement in the very same issues.
I’m hosting the Opportunity: Africa conference in Wilmington on January 18 to give Delawareans a seat at the table, the ability to make new connections with other advocates, and the chance to talk directly with experts on sustainable development, trade, humanitarian assistance, and global health. More information about the conference is below, and you can click here to RSVP.
I hope to see you there!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012 from 3 to 8 p.m.
University of Delaware – Wilmington Campus
Senator Coons’ inaugural Opportunity: Africa Conference will give Delawareans a seat at the table with some of the nation’s leading voices on sustainable development and trade with Africa. The half-day conference will look at how Delaware’s businesses, faith communities, and individuals can engage in Africa mindful of human rights challenges, sustainable development, food security, and global health.
CONFERENCE AGENDA
3:00 p.m.
Welcome from Senator Coons
3:15 p.m.
Opening Keynote:
Sustainable Economic Development and Trade with Africa
Millennium Challenge Corporation Chief Executive Officer Daniel Yohannes
4:00 p.m.
Workshop A:
Economic Opportunity: Introduction to Doing Business in Africa
World Trade Center Delaware, the Delaware Office of International Trade, U.S. Department of Commerce Foreign Commercial Services Office
Workshop B:
Connecting Communities: Opportunities for Diaspora Leaders
U.S. Department of State Global Partnership Initiative
5:30 p.m.
Break
5:45 p.m.
Keynote:
Africa’s Future – Moving from Aid to Prosperity
U.S. Agency for International Development Director Dr. Raj Shah
6:30 p.m.
Workshop A:
Human Rights Challenges: War and Reconciliation, Trafficking and Child Labor
Workshop B:
Sustainable Development and Food Security: Preventing the Next Famine
Workshop C:
Global Health and a Healthier Future for Africa
8:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks from Senator Coons