Into Africa

Africa is undergoing a health funding crisis due to overreliance on external aid and a lack of internal investment from African governments. The healthcare sector is 95 percent dependent on external aid for crucial commodities: vaccines, medication, and diagnostic equipment. Africa saw a 41 percent rise in public health emergencies in 2024, highlighting the vulnerability of the health infrastructure. In response to these challenges, the Africa Center for Disease Control (CDC) released a concept paper titled: Africa's Health Financing in a New Era. In this concept paper, the Africa CDC introduces innovative financing measures to bridge the funding gap.  Mvemba is joined by Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the Africa CDC, to discuss the importance of good governance, private sector investment, and strategic planning in strengthening Africa's domestic resource mobilization.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Blair Glencorse and Cheri-Leigh Erasmus, co-CEOs of Accountability Lab, to unpack the latest findings from the Global Aid Freeze Tracker. Together, they reflect on the current state of the development sector and explore where the development sector goes from here. 

Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and 2023 Nigerian presidential candidate, joined Into Africa to discuss his belief that the answer to Nigeria's persistent challenges lies in the character of its leaders. Obi shared that to restore public trust in Nigeria's government, leaders need to embody competence, capacity, compassion, and integrity. Obi joins Mvemba to explore how leaders can be role models for their constituents. With Africa's young population and expansive informal sector, he emphasized that cultivating a culture of entrepreneurship is essential for creating a suitable environment for poverty reduction and sustainable development – an effort that must begin with prioritizing education.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Cameron Hudson, Senior Fellow with the CSIS Africa Program. He unpacks the immediate causes of the war, the growing number of regional actors involved in the war, how the entry of foreign actors is changing the dynamics of the conflict, and the unique role the U.S. can play in mediating a peace process. Cameron Hudson's testimony to the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa can be found here.

From rapid urbanization to persistent housing shortages, Africa's cities are facing immense challenges—and emerging opportunities, including innovative mortgage models, government-backed projects, and rising investor interest in sustainable development. In this episode, Mvemba is joined by Thierno-Habib Hann, CEO of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, to explore how innovative finance, strategic partnerships, and public-private collaboration are reshaping the continent's urban future. Together, they examine the scale of Africa's housing deficit, the barriers to affordability, and the emerging solutions driving sustainable urban development across the continent.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Dr. Daniel Cash, Associate Professor in Law at Ashton University. He specializes in the study of the international credit rating agencies. They discuss the “Big Three” credit rating agencies, why they have been accused of biases against Africa, and the impact that sovereign credit ratings have on outcomes for young people.  Dr. Cash explains why the Africa Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA) is being formed and why it is important to champion this initiative.

But not much else has changed: Catherine Nzuki is (still) your host, and by 2050, one in four people in the world are still expected to be African. Thank you all very much for supporting this podcast. We are back this Thursday, May 15, with a new episode on the case for an African credit rating agency.

From Cold War dynamics to legislative debates, U.S. foreign policy toward Africa has been shaped by complex historical, political, and institutional factors. In his memoir From the Congo to Capitol Hill, Steve Weissman recounts his experiences as a young professor in the Congo and later as a congressional staffer engaged in foreign policy and human rights advocacy.  In this episode, Mvemba is joined by Steve Weissman, longtime foreign policy and campaign finance analyst. Together, they examine how Cold War dynamics shaped U.S.-Africa relations, the challenges of holding authoritarian regimes accountable, and the role of Congress in crafting principled foreign policy. 

Darrel Lloyd, CSIS Africa Program Intern, joins Catherine Nzuki for an informal discussion on internships. Catherine shares her background (2:10), tips on think tank internship applications (6:10), engaging with the African diaspora (10:59); interviews (14:27), networking (18:57); social media (22:55); building research skills (24:50); and how to stand out during your internship (28:00). Darrel shares his reflections on his spring internship at CSIS (29:00).

Africa stands at the forefront of the global climate crisis, facing extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and biodiversity loss—despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. As debates intensify over carbon credit agreements, oil exploration in the Congo Basin, and the role of Africa in shaping global climate policy, questions remain about how the continent can advocate for equitable and sustainable solutions.     In this episode, Mvemba is joined by Tosi Mpanu-Mpanu, Health, Safety, and Environment Director at Entreprise Générale du Cobalt. Together, they explore Africa's unique climate challenges, the complexities of carbon markets, and the region's growing influence in global environmental negotiations.  

The Afropolitan will be taking a brief hiatus to re-envision its next steps. Stay tuned for an exciting new chapter! In the meantime, we're sharing our very first episode from October, which focused on how older people in Mali are consuming news on TikTok, and why this symbolizes the larger trends sweeping through the Sahel. In this episode, Catherine Nzuki is joined by Doussouba Konaté, the Country Director of Accountability Lab Mali. We unpack two of these shifts in the Sahel. First, growing anti-French sentiments in the region has led to language decolonization in Mali, in which a growing number of people would rather receive their news in Bambara, one of Mali's national languages, over French. Secondly, growing internet access has connected people across Mali and has brought more visibility to the plight of Malians living in conflict-affected areas. However, as social media usage grows, so too does online misinformation and disinformation.

What does it take to influence meaningful change in Nigeria's governance landscape? In this episode of Into Africa, Udo Ilo, author of It Is Impossible: Influencing Change in Nigeria, joins to explore the complex landscape of social and political change in Nigeria. Drawing on his extensive experience in governance reform, civic engagement, and social innovation, Udo offers valuable insights into the challenges of driving democracy and political transformation in a country marked by entrenched political structures and security concerns. From his tenure as Interim Executive Director at the Center for Civilians in Conflict to his work as Nigerian representative with the Open Society Initiative for West Africa, Udo shares his perspective on what it takes to challenge the status quo and introduce innovative solutions for governance. The episode also highlights lessons from Nigeria's experience that can inform global policymakers and advocates working toward meaningful social change.  

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Naa Laryea, a software engineer living in Accra. She walks us through what apartment hunting is like in Accra, why some landlords ask for a year or two years' worth of rent up front, and the causes of the housing crisis in Accra. Nelson C.J., West Africa Correspondent at OkayAfrica, joins the Afropolitan and zooms out to discuss the common drivers of the housing crunch in major West African cities. Nelson shares his findings from his recent article with OkayAfrica, examining how the National Tenants Union of Ghana is advocating for affordable housing and rent control. Lastly, as Africa's population grows, Nelson unpacks how investing in small and mid-sized cities can help decongest cities like Accra, Dakar, and Lagos.  You can read Nelson C. J.'s work on OkayAfrica and follow Nelson C.J. on X (@nelsoncj3) and Instagram (@nelsonfromnorman____). 

Since its founding, the African Union (AU) has positioned itself as a unifying force for economic integration, conflict resolution, and continental self-determination. However, recent developments—including interstate tensions and shifting global dynamics—have raised questions about the organization's effectiveness and direction. When the 2025 AU Summit convened in February 2025, critical discussions on Africa's political and economic future took center stage. The conversations revolved around the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), responses to regional security challenges, and African representation in global governance institutions . Yet, internal divisions and leadership struggles threaten the AU's ability to represent Africa's diverse interests on the world stage.  Mvemba is joined by Dr. Solomon Dersso, adjunct professor at the University of Cape Town and founding director of Amani Africa, to analyze the AU's evolving role, the implications of the 2025 Summit, and the challenges facing the organization in maintaining unity and effectiveness.

We traditionally think of impact evaluation as an academic or technical skill. The Impact Evaluation (IE) Lab at the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF), a think tank in Dar es Salaam, is working to change that.  Catherine Nzuki is joined by Dr. Constantine Manda, the co-founder and inaugural Director of the IE Lab at ESRF, and Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of California, Irvine. The core mission of the IE Lab is to expose every Tanzanian to IE, even in its simplest form, regardless of education level.  They discuss what impact evaluation is, why it's important for every Tanzanian to be introduced to impact evaluation methods, and how the IE Lab tailors its training for policymakers and local authorities. Dr. Manda also shares the interventions done by the IE Lab to encourage Covid-19 vaccine uptake in Tanzania and healthier food habits in Dar es Salaam.  Read more about the IE Lab's research here. 

The ONE Campaign, originally founded as Debt AIDS Trade for Africa (DATA) in 2004, is a global advocacy organization dedicated to driving investments and creating economic opportunities in Africa. Over the past 20 years, ONE has continually evolved to address the continent's most pressing challenges, ensuring its work remains relevant and impactful. ONE advocates for justice and equity in Africa's global relationships. At its core, the organization is committed to advancing Africa's own vision—the continent as an equal player on the world stage. In this episode of Into Africa, Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, CEO and President of the ONE Campaign, discusses how the organization leverages public, private, and non-profit partnerships to create opportunities of sustainable development on the continent.

Three West African countries - Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso - have finalized their exit from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Another thing they have in common? All three countries are under junta rule after military coups that took place in recent years. They have since formed their own union - the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).   Why have these three countries exited ECOWAS, and is this a crisis point for the regional bloc? Catherine Nzuki is joined by Beverly Ochieng, Senior Analyst for Francophone Africa at Control Risks, and a Senior Associate with the CSIS Africa Program, to unpack these questions and more.   They discuss the state of politics and security in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso (1:30); why the leaders of these military juntas are popular at home and across Africa (4:40); what drove the decision to exit ECOWAS and what this means for unity in the region (7:37); how the AES is using arts, culture, and media to self-legitimize; (20:00); how the pan-African, decolonial rhetoric of the leaders of AES is translating into their governance choices (24:11); if the AES confederation is strong enough to weather rough international winds on their own (28:49); the state of Africa's legacy institutions today and how responsive they are to shifting regional politics and the collapsing post-WWII order (37:15).

Yinka Adegoke, editor of Semafor Africa, joined Into Africa to discuss the rapidly changing media landscape across the continent. While African media has a long history, dating back to the pre-independence era, it has traditionally been focused on national issues rather than Pan-African topics. As a result, many Africans rely on foreign news sources to stay informed about neighboring countries, reinforcing external narratives that often shape perceptions of the continent through a foreign lens. The rise of social media and Pan-African media outlets has increased global awareness of the reality on the continent. Beyond the media, Africa's global narrative is being reshaped through its pop culture, technology, and business sectors. This conversation highlights the transformative forces driving Africa's evolving story, offering a fresh perspective on its growing influence on the world stage.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Dr. Chinasa T. Okolo, a fellow in the Center for Technology Innovation in the Governance Studies program at Brookings and a recent computer science Ph.D. graduate from Cornell University. Dr. Okolo provides an overview of Africa's AI industry (1:54); DeepSeek and what it means for AI startups (6:40); common misconceptions about AI development (7:54); how to make AI safer for the global majority (14:22); the AI safety landscape in Africa (16:52); developing benchmarks to measure AI safety in Africa (19:05); why reforming existing data governance is a pathway to AI regulation (21:50); ethical approaches to developing language models (25:00); the exploitation of workers that train and label AI models (27:00); and leveraging available language models to build African language models (35:00).  Dr. Okolo's AI safety initiative: A new writing series: Re-envisioning AI safety through global majority perspectives. February 19 event on AI Safety at Brookings: Globalizing Perspectives on AI Safety

Somalia has undergone significant transformations, evolving through three republics. The current federal system, which was established in 2000 through the Djibouti settlement, is based on a parliamentary model, democratic system, clan power-sharing, and regional autonomy. However, recent moves by President Mohamud's administration to shift toward a more centralized presidential system have sparked controversy. His government's attempts to consolidate power have alienated opposition groups and key federal member states. While the country has made slow but steady progress, governance disputes and persistent security threats continue to challenge its path to stability. Military victory against Islamist insurgents remain out of reach, making the involvement of an external third party essential to negotiating a peace settlement. Mvemba is joined by Dr. Afyare Elmi, political scientist and research professor at the City University of Mogadishu, to explore the causes of Somalia's ongoing security challenges, political landscape, and governance struggles.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Andrew Friedman, Senior Fellow with the CSIS Human Rights Initiative. They discuss the scale of USAID's work around the world, the immediate impacts of this aid freeze, and USAID's shaky future. Samuel Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, joins the Afropolitan to unpack how his organization and others around Africa are impacted by the U.S. aid freeze. They also discuss the aid dependency debate that this freeze has spurred, and why this disruption is giving people hope that perhaps this time, Africa can address its aid dependency for good. 

On any given day, there are 2,500-3,000 United States Army personnel in Africa undertaking a variety of engagements with their African counterparts. The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) was established in October 2007, making it just over 17 years old—close to the age of majority. AFRICOM undertakes security exercises, civil affairs initiatives, and key leader engagements, among other activities. AFRICOM represents the third ‘D'—Defense—of U.S. foreign policy pillars, with defense and security being the most visible pillar across the continent. This has made AFRICOM the primary face of U.S. engagement for many African governments. This approach or reality has its advantages and drawbacks. Niger is perhaps the most telling case. The massive U.S. military presence in the country reflected the prominent role that defense and security objectives play in U.S.-Africa relations. The expulsion of U.S. forces from Niger in 2024 due to a disagreement over a military coup d'état diminished U.S. standing in the Sahel. Despite these challenges, AFRICOM plays an important role in ensuring the viability of the Global Fragility Act in the littoral states and Mozambique. AFRICOM's dual role as a security actor and partner in development creates both opportunities and tensions in U.S. engagement with African states.  Joining Into Africa is Brigadier General Rose Lopez Keravuori, Director of Intelligence (J2) at U.S. Africa Command. Brigadier General Keravuori will discuss AFRICOM's accomplishments, the challenges it has faced, and its evolving role in U.S.-Africa relations.  This event is made possible by the generous support of Open Society Foundations.

The December festive season in Nigeria, commonly referred to as ‘detty December' have captured the world's attention. Lagos alone brought in $71.6m in tourism revenue in December 2024, according to the Lagos State Government. How are locals faring with the influx of tourists in a tough economy? Catherine Nzuki is joined by Oluwatomisin Amokeoja, a journalist with Forbes Africa, to give an overview of ‘detty December' in Lagos. They unpack what ‘detty December' is (1:58); where the term originates (3:40); and how it has grown into such a big phenomenon that pulls in celebrities, tourists, and diaspora members (known colloquially as the “I Just Got Back” or IJGBs) (5:59); and what the December celebrations look like for locals (7:54). Peter Imouokhome, a development economist and consultant based in Lagos joins the podcast to unpack the economics of ‘detty December'. They discuss the causes of the ongoing economic crisis in Nigeria (10:40); its impact on locals (16:29); how the cost of living crisis has led to protests (20:00); and how Nigeria can balance the economic benefits of tourism with its unintended negative effects on locals (25:50).

As 2025 begins, Africa confronts significant challenges to its growth and development. Instability in the Sahel highlights the waning influence of ECOWAS and France's diminished military presence, while conflicts in Eastern DRC are intensified by Rwanda and Uganda's backing of the M23 rebel group. In Sudan, the U.S. has recognized the severity of the crisis through a genocide declaration and sanctions, but doubts linger about its long-term commitment. Meanwhile, Mozambique grapples with an insurgency in Cabo Delgado and election-related violence, further adding to the continent's volatility. These pressing issues await the incoming Trump administration, as U.S. policy toward Africa continues to struggle with a gap between rhetoric and action. Addressing this requires a practical approach—one that engages flexibly with Africa's diverse governments and navigates the complexities of the continent's evolving geopolitical landscape. Such a shift is vital to effectively tackling Africa's challenges and capitalizing on its opportunities. Mvemba and Julian Pecquet, United States correspondent for the Africa Report, examine the complexities of U.S.-Africa relations amid pressing geopolitical challenges and a transition to a new U.S. administration. The discussion underscores Africa's growing strategic importance, shaped by both its crises and opportunities.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Dr. Jennifer D. Sciubba, President and CEO of the Population Reference Bureau and one of the foremost experts in the field of political demography.  Dr. Sciubba breaks down how demographers project future populations and the drivers of population growth. They discuss the limited window to take advantage of Africa's demographic dividend, the population decline debate in the West, and why overpopulation is a contentious term. They also discuss how politics, cultural norms, women's empowerment, and the autonomy to not have children factor into population growth. 

This holiday season, we're dreaming of a just and representative global order. Catherine Nzuki is joined by Ambassador Martin Kimani, PhD, the Executive Director of New York University's Center on International Cooperation. He was previously the Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations (UN). In this episode, we take a deep dive into Africa's bid for two permanent seats on the UN Security Council (UNSC) and the long road to get there. We discuss how long Africa has been pushing for these seats (3:40); the procedure to create the two permanent seats (7:00); why the process of selecting which African state will occupy those seats could cause infighting (15:20); and two scenarios for how these seats could be distributed (19:40). We zoom out to discuss the deficit of visionary contemporary leaders (30:18); the types of reforms that the African Union needs (34:42); Africa's demographic dividend (36:00); Africa in the G20 (42:30); and finally, reordering global geography in line with Africa's own interests (45:00).

This December 1st, Project HOPE was among the many organizations commemorating World AIDS Day as well as the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Over two decades, significant progress in HIV control, particularly in Africa, has been achieved through initiatives like President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Since 2003, PEPFAR has enabled over 20 million people to access antiretroviral therapy and prevented 5.5 million HIV-positive births. However, challenges persist in meeting UNAIDS' 95-95-95 targets—ensuring widespread testing, treatment, and viral suppression. Barriers include funding shortages, stigma, and competing health crises like COVID-19. Adolescents, especially girls and young women, face heightened risk due to social vulnerabilities and limited access to youth-friendly services. Mvemba is joined by Dr. Uche Ralph-Opara, Chief Health Officer at Project HOPE, to discuss the progress made and the hurdles that remain in achieving epidemic control. Their conversation highlights innovative approaches to addressing gender inequality and empowering vulnerable populations.

According to Debt Justice and Christian Aid, 34 African countries spend more on external debt payments than on health or education. Seriously, how did we get here? Tim Jones (Policy Director at Debt Justice UK) walks us through the causes of Africa's debt crisis, its impact, and how it can be fixed.   Tim is the co-author of the report "Between Life and Debt" by Christian Aid and Debt Justice UK. You can find the report here: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/news/between-life-and-debt.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Joseph Asunka, PhD, CEO of Afrobarometer, the leading source of public attitude data in Africa. Together, they discuss Afrobarometer's rise, its meticulous survey research methods, and case studies showcasing the policy impact of its data in Ghana, Malawi, and Botswana. They also discuss the difficulties of conducting surveys in conflict-afflicted or fragile contexts and how Afrobarometer has contributed to the growth of survey research organizations across Africa. Joseph Asunka also highlights how big data could be a changemaker in conducting research in Africa.

Ghana has long been viewed internationally as a regional leader in democracy, particularly notable given its challenging neighborhood bordering the Sahel states. Although cross-border security challenges persist, Ghana has not experienced terrorist attacks from al-Qaeda–affiliated JNIM, though its northern region remains vulnerable. Instead, Ghana's security apparatus faces significant internal challenges, including rising chieftaincy conflicts, illegal mining (galamsey), land use disputes, and citizenship issues in some communities. These factors have led to a decline in public perception of state institutions, especially regarding the police, the electoral commission, and the ruling party. Paul Nana Kwabena Aborampah Mensah, program manager in charge of security sector governance at the Ghana Center for Democratic Development, joins Mvemba less than a month before Ghana's election. They discuss the state of Ghana's security institutions, the successes and challenges these institutions face, and the implications for Ghana's upcoming elections.

Catherine Nzuki is joined by Mvemba Phezo Dizolele (CSIS Africa Director and Senior Fellow) and Cameron Hudson (Africa Program Senior Fellow) for a discussion on what President-Elect Donald Trump's second term would mean for the U.S. approach to Africa, and how African capitals may be strategizing for his second term.

Rwanda has endured a series of destabilizing moments that have shaped its complex history and relations with neighboring countries. Colonial rule set the stage for ethnic divisions that worsened under post-colonial governments, leading to the horrific 1994 Rwandan genocide. Following the genocide, Rwanda's rapid reconstruction transformed it into an economic success story. However, longstanding tensions with its neighbors, fueled by historical grievances and security concerns, continue to disrupt and challenge this image and drive instability and insecurity in the Great Lakes. Today, Rwanda's relations with neighboring countries remain fraught. Friction has led to periodic border closures with Uganda and Burundi, while Rwanda's military presence in eastern DRC has contributed to conflict escalation. Questions persist about how Rwanda and its neighbors can move beyond historical grievances and geopolitical struggles to foster lasting peace in the region.  In this episode, Mvemba is joined by retired General James Kabarebe, Rwanda's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation. General Kabarebe offers an inside perspective on the security challenges Rwanda faces with its neighbors. He addresses Rwanda's diplomatic and strategic stance, shedding light on the complexities of regional cooperation, and explores ways to navigate the tensions affecting Rwanda and its neighbors.  This event is made possible by the generous support of Open Society Foundations.

The story of older people in Mali who consume news on TikTok symbolizes the larger trends sweeping through the Sahel. In this episode, Catherine Nzuki is joined by Doussouba Konaté, the Country Director of Accountability Lab Mali. We unpack two of these shifts in the Sahel. First, growing anti-French sentiments in the region has led to language decolonization in Mali, in which a growing number of people would rather receive their news in Bambara, one of Mali's national languages, over French. Secondly, growing internet access has connected people across Mali and has brought more visibility to the plight of Malians living in conflict-affected areas. However, as social media usage grows, so too does online misinformation and disinformation.

The CSIS Africa Program is excited to announce the launch of The Afropolitan, a podcast hosted by Catherine Nzuki, Associate Fellow with the Africa Program. The Afropolitan is dedicated to exploring Africa's growing influence on the global stage. By 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African. Africa will increasingly drive key aspects of the future—from the global workforce and cutting-edge innovations to creative industries that inspire global culture and arts. The decisions made across Africa today, both positive and negative, will shape the world's future.   The future of cosmopolitanism is increasingly African. The Afropolitan delves into the stories, trends, and challenges shaping today's realities and defining the decades ahead.   You can find The Afropolitan on the same feed as Into Africa. Search for "Into Africa" wherever you get your podcasts.

Youth movements have become a powerful catalyst for demanding change across Africa. Kenya's #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests emerged in June 2024 as a response to a controversial finance bill that included significant tax hikes. Despite violent police crackdowns resulting in over 60 deaths, the movement successfully pressured President Ruto to withdraw the bill and dismiss several cabinet members. Mvemba is joined by Kenyan youth leaders Hanifa Adan, Journalist and Activist, Kasmuel McOure, Spokesperson for the National Coordination Committee of Peoples' Assemblies, and Mwanase Ahmed, Socio-environmental Activist, to discuss the ongoing dissatisfaction of Kenyan youth. They highlighted the failure of previous regimes to address economic hardship and government corruption that led to a collective awakening among young people. These activists stressed the need for civic education and community engagement to mobilize support across Kenya. Furthermore, the overarching sentiment is that youth will continue to strive for change and seek accountability from Kenyan political leaders, a sign of growing resilience in the face of systems that do not work for them.

Botswana, known for its political stability and diamond-rich economy, has made significant strides since independence in 1966, particularly in education and health. Beneath the surface of political stability and dazzling achievements, a vibrant civil society is actively striving to tackle the nation's most urgent challenges including youth unemployment, issues of identity and representation, pressures faced by the independent media, and youth HIV/AIDS rates. Mvemba discusses Botswana's political landscape and development with Kagiso Molatlhwa, Executive Director of the Botswana Council of Non-Governmental Organizations (BOCONGO). Molatlhwa emphasizes the need for economic diversification, improved service delivery, and a more inclusive constitution.

Mvemba is joined by Kemi Okenyondo, the Founder/Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria, to discuss accountability for Nigeria's military and police and security issues in the country.

Since its inception in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF) brings together an annual cohort of established African youth leaders for an immersive six-week leadership program at U.S. colleges and universities. The fellowship culminates in a summit where participants network and engage in high-level workshops.  MWF is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative, designed to empower and connect the continent's mst promising leaders. The Mandela Washington Fellows bring their leadership, expertise, and passion to this highly selective fellowship with interests ranging from environmentalism to gender equity to sustainable development and the creative arts.   In this episode of Into Africa, Mvemba is joined by three distinguished MWF alumni who share their experiences and insights from the fellowship, as well as their professional journeys. Sarah Funmilayo Kuponiyi, founder and CEO of Alora Reusable Pads in Nigeria, advocates for menstrual hygiene and gender empowerment. Tefetso Nicolus Kele, a lawyer from Lesotho, focuses on sustainable finance, international trade, and investment law. Pape Mamadou Camara, a communications specialist from Senegal, is passionate about the arts and the transformative power of hip hop as well as fighting desertification in Africa through the “Green Wall”.

Engaging with the dynamic and rapidly evolving development landscape in Africa presents a complex challenge. Historically, global powers have treated Africa as a tool for extraction and a pawn in geopolitical struggles, from colonialism to the Cold War. However, with the growth of Africa and the world shifting into a multipolar era, the U.S. finds its policies and engagement with Africa unfit for purpose, having lost touch with the realities and interests on the ground. Often referred to as the "continent of the future" due to its vast resources and rapidly growing population, a critical question the U.S. is asking is: how can the U.S. engage effectively in Africa? Former CSIS Africa Program director and Into Africa's creator, Judd Devermont, rejoins the podcast to share his insights into the U.S.'s approach to Africa and the role of America in a multipolar world. Drawing on his experience as Special Assistant to President Biden and Senior Director for African Affairs at the National Security Council, Judd offers a deep and informed perspective on these critical issues.

The African continent faces several unique challenges that increase its vulnerability to cyber-attacks: a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, outdated software, lack of digital literacy among individuals, and struggles with personal data protection. While digital accessibility is on the rise in Africa, 60 percent of Africans (about 700 million people) remain unconnected to the internet. Digital literacy is the first step in tackling this challenge as connecting people is essential for improving education, job opportunities, and healthcare, as well as economic growth. However, Africa innovation and solutions show promise in ensuring the continent will overcome these hurdles and actively participate in the “digital revolution”. Fran Katsoudas, Executive Vice President and Chief People, Policy and Purpose Officer at Cisco, joins Mvemba to share findings from Cisco's recently launched report “Elevating Africa's Cyber Resilience: Unveiling Regional Challenges and Charting AI Solutions.”

In 2019, the U.S. Congress passed the bipartisan Global Fragility Act (GFA), approving up to $200 million annually for prevention and stabilization efforts in target countries and regions, including Mozambique, Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, and Togo. The GFA aims to strengthen fragile states, described by the Department of State as those "where state weakness or failure would magnify threats to the American homeland" and to "empower reform-minded governments, people, and civil society." Collaborating with state governments, civil society actors, and other key stakeholders, 10-year plans were developed for each target country. This initiative comes at a critical time, as conflict-related violence globally is at its highest since the end of the Cold War, with particularly acute effects in Africa, from the Sahel to Sudan to the eastern DRC. Peter Quaranto, Director of the Office of African Affairs in the Department of State Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO), joins Mvemba to share CSO's approach to better anticipate, prevent and mitigate violent conflicts. They discuss how CSO's mission to strengthen U.S.-Africa partnerships for a more peaceful future.

Youth engagement in the Black and African diaspora stands as a foundational pillar in elevating our communities. The Hidden Genius Project was founded in Oakland, California in 2012 with the goal of revealing the true potential of black male youth. The mission is to develop quality, confident, and healthy young people who can lead. The Hidden Genius Project trains and mentors their geniuses in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills to transform their lives and their communities at large. Beyond the United States, the Hidden Genius Project has held activations abroad including in Johannesburg, South Africa and Saly and Dakar, Senegal. The CEO and founder of The Hidden Genius Project, Dr. Brandon Nicholson joined Mvemba to dive into what it means to be a hidden genius and how his team curates programs that support their mission.

While African youth make up over 70% of the population on the continent, the institutions present are not fit for their participation and representation in government. This is exemplified by the fact that although African youth rely on the informal sector for employment, institutions cater to the formal sector. The youth, therefore, expend time and energy and work in survivalist modes which limit their participation in civic and political engagement. The institutions inherited from colonial powers did not cater to African demographics. Now, African youth are mobilizing, organizing, and campaigning for institutional reform to serve them.  Mvemba is joined by McDonald Lewanika, Southern Africa Regional Director at Accountability Lab, to discuss the importance of adapting to Africa's fast-changing demographics by ensuring that the majority's voices are catered for and given the appropriate platform. 

Whenever the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) makes the headlines, it appears that the challenges the nation is facing are only multiplying. From the escalating conflict in Eastern DRC to what is being called an attempted coup in Kinshasa the question remains: how will the largest sub-Saharan African nation overcome its complex challenges? Governance. Analysts point to weak and uninspired governance as one of the challenges that perpetuate instability in Africa. In May, six months after his election, President Felix Tshisekedi announced the newly appointed government of the DRC. This government faces the daunting task of confronting the array of conflicts and instability in the country. Fred Bauma, Senior Fellow and Executive Secretary of Ebuteli, joins Mvemba to discuss the reasons this government took so long to form, the state of governance in DRC, and the expectations of Tshisekedi's second term in office.

After more than three decades of experience as a media entrepreneur, Claude Grunitzky's passion for telling the authentic stories of Africans has only expanded. While perceptions and narratives of Africa have slightly shifted, the Western gaze on Africa has not. Limitless Africa is “the podcast that asks the questions that matter to Africa” through speaking with strong voices that promote the future of Africa. Mvemba is joined by Claude Grunitzky, Founder of TRACE and friend of the pod, to discuss asking the right questions about Africa, and limitless answers.

Since 2018, senior leaders from land forces across Africa, the United States, and other partner nations have met to strengthen their relationships, exchange information, and encourage cooperation at the Africa Land Forces Summit (ALFS). This marked the 5th anniversary of the summit, which was hosted in Livingstone, Zambia with the theme “Regional Solutions to Transnational Problems”. 25 different countries were represented in the summit- a growth from the initial 9 that attended the first summit in Nigeria in 2018. Mvemba is joined by Command Sergeant Major Reese Teakell, US Army Southern European Task Force, and Command Sergeant Jeremiah E. Inman, US Army Europe and Africa, to discuss the highlights and achievements of the partnerships between African and partner nations in security training. They delve into the education programs for non-commissioned officers and the importance of leadership development.

After attaining independence in 1961, the United Republic of Tanzania became instrumental in liberation movements throughout Africa. Julius Nyerere, Tanzania's first president, established the ideology of Ujamaa (African socialism) as Tanzania's political, social, and economic ideology. At the time of independence, the US established diplomatic ties with Tanzania and Nyerere had a close relationship with President John F. Kennedy. Nyerere stepped down from his presidency in 1985 and subsequent presidents opened Tanzania to become more democratic politically and economically while maintaining a socialist philosophy further strengthening relations with the US. However, the presidency of the late President John Magufuli eroded some of the democratic strides that previous presidents had instilled, straining bilateral relations with the US while strengthening ties with China. Nonetheless, the current administration under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan has beckoned on the United States for an improved relationship and deeper bilateral economic ties. Mvemba is joined by Ambassador Michael Battle, United States Ambassador to Tanzania, to discuss the history and current state of U.S.- Tanzania bilateral relations. Ambassador Battle shares his hopes of transformed US-Tanzania relations from an aid and development assistance model to a trade and investment model.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye is not only Senegal's youngest elected president but also the youngest democratically elected president in Africa. At 44- years old there is a lot of expectation resting on Faye and his mentor Ousmane Sonko as they take the reins after an election run-up that was nothing short of dramatic. Since 2021, protests against former president Macky Sall have left more than 60 people dead and hundreds of political activists jailed. Faye is expected to strengthen the eroded democratic institutions in Senegal that allowed Sall to attempt an unconstitutional bid to sustain his party's hold on the presidency and that built conditions to repress dissent in the country. Hawa Ba, Director of Core Partners in Open Society Foundations, joins Mvemba to share her impressions from the tumultuous election. As the only West African country that has not experienced a coup, Senegal is a beacon of hope that alternative forms of power and governance can be achieved through elections.

Since 2022, the East Africa Community (EAC) has expanded to include two new partner states, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia, bringing its membership up to eight partner states. Each nation admitted to the bloc brings its own set of challenges but also expands the opportunities and avenues for cooperation in the region. The EAC has been strong in providing economic opportunities to its partner states and the inclusion of DRC and Somalia prospects to acquire greater markets for the trading states and allow the two nations to grow. On the other hand, the EAC grapples with political integration problems as mistrust and tension exist across the borders of member states, weaving a complex web of alliances and political clashes. Beverly Ochieng, CSIS Senior Associate (Non-Resident), and Pascal Kambale, Human Rights Lawyer, join Mvemba to untangle the issues and opportunities faced by the EAC. As the EAC faces a transition period with its new member states, how can it solidify its leadership and ensure that each partner is held to account?

“Never deprive someone of hope; it might be all they have.” Project HOPE is a global health and humanitarian aid non-governmental organization founded by Dr. William B. Walsh in 1958.  Their first operations in Africa began in the mid-1960s in Guinea; and since then, they have reached 13 countries in Africa.   Project Hope began its work in Sierra Leone during the 2014 Ebola Epidemic to help combat the outbreak. During this period, the organization recognized the need to increase capacity to improve the health outcomes of women, newborns, and children, which has now become the primary focus of their work in the country. The organization has collaborated with the responsive leadership at the Ministry of Health to lower the rate of maternal mortality from 1360 per 100,000 live births to the current rate of 443. Furthermore, Sierra Leone have developed a 5-point strategy of reducing the maternal mortality rate to less than 300 per 100,000 live births by 2025.      Mvemba is joined by Dr. Uche Ralph-Opara, the Chief Health Officer at Project HOPE to discuss the current situation, work, and progress made by Project Hope in improving maternal health crisis in Sierra Leone.   

For a brief moment, it appeared as though all attention had shifted to the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the tournament gained global attention. The game saw the participation of 24 out of 54 countries in the tournament, hosted by the reigning champions, Côte d'Ivoire, from January to early February 2024.   The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been hosted in various African nations for over 60 years, with each game surpassing the former. However, AFCON 2023 set a new viewership record of over 2 billion viewers worldwide, making it the most-watched AFCON tournament. Furthermore, the game showcased the abundance of talents present in Africa through the participation of prominent football players such as Victor Osimhen from Nigeria, Achraf Hakimi, from Morocco, Sadio Mane from Senegal, and Mo' Salah from Egypt, among many others.   Join Mvemba and Afolabi Adekaiyaoja, Research Analyst at CDD-West Africa, as they discuss the remarkable achievements of AFCON 2023, its impact on Africa and beyond, and the inextricable links between sports and politics.