The Importance and Potential for U.S. Relations with the States of Africa

Africa is a continent of great contrasts. It not only has great potential for economic development, given its young and growing population, improved health outcomes, and greater access to education and technology, but also is home to some of the most conflict-ridden areas and desperately impoverished people on the planet. Moreover, much has changed over the past decade.  As the US government strives to define its national interest and implement a clear strategy towards the individual countries that comprise the continent, it must take into account the impact of these recent, sometimes radical changes.