Podcasts about opportunity act

Le Lesotho, petit royaume de 2 millions d'habitants enclavé dans l'Afrique du Sud, est menacé de 50% de taxes par l'administration Trump. C'est le pays le plus touché dans le monde après la Chine. Or, il dépend de l'industrie textile. Reportage dans des usines où ces taxes américaines font craindre le pire. De notre envoyé spécial de retour de Maseru,Nous sommes au sud de Maseru, dans une petite usine de textile en brique rouge. Et ici, quand on évoque Donald Trump, les réactions ne se font pas attendre. « Je trouve qu'il est égoïste, juge une employée, il ne pense pas à l'impact négatif de ses décisions sur notre population. »Malgré la suspension des taxes par le président américain, qui a décrété une pause pour trois mois début avril, l'avenir est particulièrement incertain, et la menace des 50% de droits de douane plane toujours sur le personnel de cette usine du Lesotho. « Ils sont stressés et inquiets, témoigne Malerai Mosotho, la manageuse. On fait de notre mieux pour les rassurer. On les réunit et on leur parle. Mais si, du jour au lendemain, on avait 50% de taxes, ce serait un vrai désastre ici. On devrait renvoyer des gens chez eux. »À écouter aussiLes habitants du Lesotho veulent rebondir sur le tacle de Trump et faire connaître leur pays« Soyez clément avec notre pays, notre usine, nos familles »Le stress est palpable et les visages sont fermés dans cette usine où résonne le bruit des machines à coudre et où la vapeur émane des stands de repassage. Car le marché américain représente 10% des exportations. « Le marché américain est un de nos principaux débouchés, en dollars, souligne Teboho Kobeli, le fondateur d'Afri-export-textile. On s'était particulièrement orienté vers les États-Unis depuis quelques années. Pour nous, c'est un marché d'un million de dollars par an ! »Mamohapi travaille ici depuis huit ans. « Là, je contrôle un jean qui sort du lavage. Je vérifie tout avant d'emballer », dit-elle. Mère de trois enfants, elle est inquiète : « Si je ne peux plus ramener d'argent dans mon foyer, ma famille va mourir. Tout le pays est affecté. Alors, je demande à Donald Trump ​​​​​​​: soyez clément avec notre pays, avec notre usine. Soyez clément avec nos familles ! »Un geste envers Musk pour apaiser la situationPas sûr que Donald Trump soit sensible à cette demande. Pour sauver les plus de 10 000 postes en danger, le gouvernement lésothien devra plutôt négocier. « Ces taxes, c'est une décision troublante de la part d'un grand pays que je considérais comme un symbole d'espoir, juge Mokethi Shelile, ministre du Commerce et de l'Industrie du royaume enclavé. Et ce n'est pas fondé sur la réciprocité. Nous exportons beaucoup par rapport à eux dans le cadre de l'Agoa (African Growth and Opportunity Act, le programme d'aide américain sur la croissance et les possibilités en Afrique, NDLR). Elles vendent peu chez nous. Mais nous ne sommes que deux millions d'habitants ​​​​​​​! Les entreprises américaines ne sont peut-être tout simplement pas intéressées par notre marché. »Le Lesotho a récemment accordé une licence d'exploitation à Elon Musk pour son entreprise Starlink. En faisant un pas vers le milliardaire très proche du président Trump, le royaume enclavé espère éviter des taxes trop importantes.À lire aussiLes habitants du Lesotho veulent rebondir sur le tacle de Trump et faire connaître leur pays

Les experts et journalistes de RFI répondent à vos questions sur les taxes douanières annoncées par Donald Trump et le retrait de la Hongrie de la CPI. RDC : trois ressortissants américains échappent à la peine de mortCondamnés à mort pour leur implication dans la tentative de coup d'État de mai 2024 à Kinshasa, les trois Américains ont vu leur peine commuée en prison à perpétuité. Comment expliquer cette grâce accordée par le président Felix Tshisekedi ? Quel avait été de leur rôle lors de ce putsch raté ?Avec Paulina Zidi, correspondante permanente de RFI à KinshasaÉtats-Unis : comment Donald Trump a-t-il calculé les droits de douane ?Le monde entier est concerné par les nouveaux droits de douane sur les produits importés aux États-Unis. 20% pour l'Union européenne, 34% pour la Chine et même 50% pour le Lesotho. Sur quels critères Donald Trump s'est-il basé pour fixer ces taxes en fonction des pays ?Droits de douane américains : pourquoi certains pays sont épargnés ?Alors que la plupart des États sont frappés par les nouvelles taxes américaines, certains pays comme le Canada, la Russie et le Mexique ne sont pas concernés par les dernières annonces de Donald Trump. Pourquoi sont-ils exemptés de ces augmentations ?Droits de douane américains : quelles conséquences pour l'Afrique ?51 pays africains sont frappés de plein fouet par les nouveaux droits de douane imposés par Donald Trump. Allant de 10% pour le Bénin et la Guinée jusqu'à 50% pour le Lesotho, quel sera l'impact sur les économies du continent ? Quel avenir pour l'Agoa (African Growth and Opportunity Act) qui permet à l'Afrique d'exporter des milliers de produits vers les États-Unis sans être taxés ?Avec Léo Charles, maître de conférences en sciences économiques à l'Université de Rennes 2CPI : la Hongrie claque la porteVisé par un mandat d'arrêt international de la Cour pénale internationale, Benyamin Netanyahu a pourtant été reçu en grande pompe en Hongrie. Son hôte, Viktor Orban en a profité pour annoncer le retrait de son pays de la CPI. Comment expliquer cette décision ? A-t-elle un lien avec la visite du Premier ministre israélien ?Avec Florence La Bruyère, correspondante de RFI à Budapest

Donald Trump anunciou esta quarta-feira novas taxas aduaneiras, que vão ser aplicadas a um vasto conjunto de países. O Presidente norte-americano anunciou igualmente taxas alfandegárias para vários Estados africanos como é o caso de taxas de 31% para a África do Sul ou 32% para Angola, entre outros. Para o economista Carlos Lopes, “a grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo”, “que acabam por pôr em causa o sistema actual de comércio”.  Donald Trump anunciou esta quarta-feira à noite novas taxas aduaneiras, que vão ser aplicadas a um vasto conjunto de países. A China está no topo da lista, cujos produtos terão uma taxa de 34%, um valor que se acrescenta à taxa de 20% já aplicada, o que coloca os produtos chineses na barreira dos 54%. A União Europeia será alvo de uma taxa de 20%, o Reino Unido terá uma taxa de 10% e o Japão de 24%.O continente africano não fica de fora deste “dia da libertação”, o Presidente norte-americano anunciou igualmente taxas alfandegárias para vários Estados africanos como é o caso de taxas de 31% para a África do Sul ou 32% para Angola, entre outros.Para o economista Carlos Lopes, “a grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo”, “que acabam por pôr em causa o sistema actual do comércio”. O docente na Universidade do Cabo, África do Sul, acrescenta que os Estados Unidos vão sofrer “grandes repercussões” com estas medidas que “não tem nada a ver com a economia actual, globalizada e integrada”, reflectindo decisões “mais de fundo ideológico do que de fundo racional”.RFI: Quais são as consequências destas taxas para o continente africano?Carlos Lopes, economista: A grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo. Se fosse em relação a determinado número de países ou uma região em específico, seria uma conjuntura um bocado diferente.O que as taxas acabam por pôr em causa é o sistema actual do comércio, porque os Estados Unidos tiveram uma influência muito grande na criação, primeiro no acordo que precede a Organização Mundial do Comércio, que é o Acordo Geral de Tarifas e Comércio (GATT) e, segundo, durante a vigência da OMC, foi o país que mais colaborou para uma globalização através do comércio. Portanto, a partir do momento em que aplica estas taxas a todos os países do mundo, perde um pouco não só a sua liderança, mas também mostra que vai ter uma certa hostilidade em relação ao sistema que ele próprio criou.Mas estamos aqui no início de uma nova ordem mundial do comércio?Sem dúvida, mas é preciso também aceitar que algumas linhas de contestação do comércio, tal como ele vinha sendo desenvolvido, já estavam em curso. Isto não é um apanágio apenas dos Estados Unidos. A Europa também introduziu medidas unilaterais, invocando razões climáticas. Outros países também utilizaram formas de proteccionismo durante a pandemia. Ou seja, nós temos vindo a assistir a uma espécie de erosão das regras do comércio, tal como elas foram estabelecidas nos últimos 20 anos.O que nós vemos agora é apenas uma aceleração do que era já uma tendência, uma tendência de contestação das regras do comércio. Fez-se em nome de um comércio que fosse mais seguro e mais amigo do clima, mas na realidade já eram medidas proteccionistas que agora perdem um pouco a sua capa e a sua manipulação em termos de argumentos políticos e passam a ser aquilo que todos vêem, que é uma espécie de hostilidade comercial baseada na reciprocidade. Aliás, um conceito que, no caso dos Estados Unidos, tem uma interpretação muito peculiar, porque não é uma reciprocidade em termos de tarifas - embora sejam as tarifas o que é invocado - é uma reciprocidade em termos de balança comercial. Ou seja, um país que tem mais exportações para os Estados Unidos do que importações será punido. Isto é uma coisa absurda. Leva que o país que tem mais tarifas, a taxa mais elevada, seja um país com o Lesoto, um pobre Lesoto que não custa mais do que uma pinga no comércio dos Estados Unidos.Porquê estes países? Há países com economias bastante modestas…Por um lado, é acabar com o acordo especial AGOA [African Growth and Opportunity Act], que era um acordo para dar preferências de importação aos países africanos sem taxação.Eu sempre disse que este acordo não ia ter muitas pernas para andar, porque os investidores normalmente querem previsibilidade, ou seja, querem saber exactamente que as regras se aplicam de uma forma acordada legalmente. E isto não era bem um acordo, era um anúncio de concessões unilaterais por parte dos Estados Unidos, em princípio, para poder favorecer o desenvolvimento dos países mais vulneráveis da África.Na realidade, sendo unilateral, pode ser cessado a qualquer altura e é isso que acaba por acontecer agora, porque com essas tarifas que foram anunciadas, tudo o que diz o AGOA deixa de ter efeito.Na prática, como é que estas taxas se traduzem? Ou seja, quais são os produtos mais afectados e como é que os países africanos ou os africanos vão sentir na carteira estas taxas?Na realidade, há poucos países que exportam para os Estados Unidos através do AGOA e que vão ser punidos de uma forma mais directa por estas taxações. Um deles, seguramente, é a África do Sul. É o país que mais exporta em África para os Estados Unidos.Mas, é interessante ver, por exemplo, que, no caso da África do Sul, as exportações mais importantes são viaturas, nomeadamente Mercedes e BMW's. Por isso é que as taxas que são aplicadas aos veículos, em toda a franja de importadores dos Estados Unidos, acabam também por afectar a África do Sul. A África do Sul também exporta aço e exporta muitos produtos agrícolas, nomeadamente cítricos.Em todas estas áreas, quando se reúne o conjunto das exportações, elas representam cerca de 9% das exportações da África do Sul. Claro que é um número importante em matéria comercial, mas não é um número que assuste ou para que a África do Sul deixe de ser um país com capacidade de poder superar esta crise.No caso de países como o Lesoto, Quénia, Gana, alguns países da África do Norte, ou Madagáscar, que exportavam produtos bastante específicos, seja através de commodities soft, como café ou o chá, ou então têxteis - caso do Lesoto e de Madagáscar - as repercussões são muito mais fortes do que na África do Sul, porque uma boa parte dos investimentos que tinham sido feitos por certos investidores era visando o mercado americano. Agora, fica tudo de sobressalto, porque encontrar mercados alternativos demora tempo. Não é impossível, mas demora tempo. Portanto, vão passar por um período muito difícil.Como é que África pode responder a estas taxas? Por exemplo, o Presidente sul-africano falou num novo acordo de comércio bilateral. O que é que se pode esperar, novos acordos bilaterais?No caso concreto da África do Sul, uma boa parte do comércio que é originário dos Estados Unidos em direcção à África do Sul, não é um comércio de produtos propriamente ditos, é de serviços. Portanto, um acordo comercial vai obrigar na mesa das negociações a ver qual é o peso dos serviços e como se pode punir esses serviços. Por exemplo, a actuação das grandes empresas de tecnologia é na área dos serviços e, portanto, pode trazer grandes dificuldades aos Estados Unidos, se o conjunto dos países que beneficiam desse tipo de intervenção vier, eventualmente, a retaliar. Não de uma forma directa - taxação - mas através do impedimento regulatório da actuação de algumas destas empresas de alta tecnologia e outras empresas fornecedoras de serviços.Esta decisão de Washington também tem consequências internas. Pode significar um aumento da inflação, o abrandamento do crescimento económico e levar à ruptura das cadeias de abastecimento globais. Portanto, não é uma decisão sem consequências internas?Eu acho que vai haver grandes repercussões nos Estados Unidos. Vai haver seguramente uma inflação muito mais acelerada, uma recessão económica e, sobretudo, vamos entrar num período em que pode haver uma desvalorização do dólar, que é um dos objectivos indirectos destas medidas.Através da desvalorização do dólar, há a ideia de que as exportações dos Estados Unidos vão ser mais atractivas, porque, hoje em dia, são muito caras e é por isso que os Estados Unidos “não exportam tanto”. Eu acho que é uma falsa premissa, porque a maior parte das exportações dos Estados Unidos, são na área dos serviços e da energia.Em relação à matéria alimentar, por exemplo, a concorrência dos Estados Unidos em relação a outros grandes produtores de alimentos, como é o caso do Brasil, Argentina e também da África do Sul, não chega a ser uma concorrência, porque uma boa parte dessa produção nos Estados Unidos era já altamente subsidiada. Portanto, mesmo que haja um incentivo do dólar a custar menos, se se retira os subsídios, vai haver muitas dificuldades por parte dessas empresas de continuarem a ser competitivas internacionalmente.Para um economista, estas medidas tarifárias são de uma era dos anos 30. Não tem nada a ver com a economia actual, globalizada e integrada. As cadeias de valor que estão super integradas a nível mundial e a lógica que prevalecia até agora, era a lógica de que se produz qualquer produto no sítio onde é mais barato no mundo. Portanto, era já uma competitividade internacional. Esta ideia de que o proteccionismo vai escudar os Estados Unidos desse tipo de desenvolvimento parece-me inverosímil.Nós estamos perante uma ideia que parece ser mais de fundo ideológico do que de fundo racional.

Les nouveaux tarifs globaux étaient attendus mais aussi redoutés. L'économiste Manisha Dookony nous explique ce que sont les tarifs réciproques et leurs raisons d'être.  Il est à noter que Maurice impose un tarif de 80% sur les produits américains. Donald Trump a imposé un tarif de 10% sur toutes les importations vers les États-Unis, avec des taux encore plus élevés pour les pays qu'il qualifie de « pires contrevenants », à un moment décisif pour le commerce mondial. Maurice se retrouve dans cette catégorie puisque la hausse est conséquente comparée à celle d'autres pays. Il reste à confirmer si nos exportations sous l'African Growth and Opportunity Act sont concernées. Cependant, Manisha Dookony suggère d'utiliser la diplomatie économique pour renégocier le tarif imposé.

On Daybreak Africa: The spread of meningitis in the Northern state of Kebbi began late January with over two hundred suspected cases recorded. Plus, South Sudan women make gains in the field of information technology. Malawi lions given birth control to prevent a population boom. South African President Ramaphosa wants to continue trading with the US through AGOA – the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Europe hosts talk on the details of rearming. For these and more, tune in to Daybreak Africa!

“This is the new reality that we are going to have to face and it is a fantastic opportunity for us to redefine our position away from the US trying to tell us who we can or cannot be, because they really don't care about us” - Ugandan coffee farmer Robert Kabushenga In the year 2000, the United States government set up the African Growth and Opportunity Act also known as AGOA. It's aim was to give qualifying sub-Saharan African countries access to the US market, without paying import taxes, thus promoting economic growth in Africa. But there's no certainty that president Donald Trump will renew the deal when it expires later this year, especially considering many of the moves he's made in recent weeks. His administration cut off financial aid to countries like South Africa and many others around the world. So, what lies ahead for trade relations between Africa and the United States? Presenter: Alan Kasujja Guests: Ugandan coffee farmer Robert Kabushenga, Eswatini economics lecturer Sanele Sibiya and South African exporter Nhlanhla Dlamini

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Stephen Grootes talks to Shane Naidoo, Global Treasury and Trade Management Services Specialist at Nedbank Commercial Banking, about the implications of Trump's tariffs on the African Growth and Opportunity Act.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

La presse du continent ne se fait aucune illusion. L'état du monde n'est pas la tasse de thé du nouveau président américain et l'Afrique encore moins. Comme le dit WalfQuotidien à Dakar : « Donald Trump n'aura pas à beaucoup secouer l'arbre par rapport aux relations avec l'Afrique qui vraisemblablement n'est pas sa priorité ».En effet, complète Le Pays au Burkina, « l'Afrique n'intéresse pas le désormais président des États-Unis, et pourrait être encore ignorée comme elle l'a été durant son premier mandat. C'est vrai que cette fois, il n'a pas tenu des propos insultants à l'égard de certains États qu'il avait qualifiés de “pays de merde“, mais, pointe Le Pays, ce deuxième mandat risque lui aussi de laisser un souvenir désagréable aux Africains en raison non seulement de sa politique en matière d'immigration, qui fermera les portes de l'Amérique aux jeunes du continent, mais aussi en raison de l'imposition des droits de douane pour les importations africaines aux États-Unis, avec la très forte probabilité de ne pas renouveler, cette année, l'African Growth and Opportunity Act (l'AGOA) qui exonère de taxes douanières un certain nombre de produits en provenance de 32 pays d'Afrique sub-saharienne ».Le culte de l'homme fort…Toutefois, souligne Jeune Afrique, l'homme en tant que tel, avec sa poigne et ses outrances n'est pas sans séduire certains dirigeants du continent… C'est vrai, explique le site panafricain, « certains leaders africains adeptes du néo-virilisme “kiffent“ le style de celui qui est redevenu hier le locataire de la Maison Blanche. Au fantasque Ougandais Yoweri Museveni ou aux putschistes francophones bombeurs de poitrine, le culte de l'homme fort n'est pas pour déplaire. Pour peu que Donald Trump consacre une once d'attention aux pays africains, il pourrait rendre la politesse aux aficionados nationalistes de la poignée de mains vigoureuse. Pour peu, effectivement, qu'il lorgne du côté du continent, car il n'y a effectué aucun voyage officiel lors de son premier mandat. Ces derniers mois, relève encore Jeune Afrique, la campagne électorale de la revanche n'a guère été émaillée d'allusions au continent, ni dans le barnum communicationnel d'Elon Musk, ni dans les diverses auditions de Marco Rubio, le nouveau secrétaire d'État. Mais, s'interroge le site panafricain, n'est-ce pas ce qui convient le mieux à nombre de dirigeants africains ? Comme la Chine ou la Russie, le partenaire international idéal des démocraties approximatives n'est-il pas une puissance économique volontairement aveugle aux modes de gouvernance ou au traitement des droits humains ? ».Un terrain de jeu pour contrer la Chine ?Finalement, le seul intérêt que Donald Trump pourrait trouver à l'Afrique, c'est d'en faire un terrain de jeu pour contrer les avancées de certains de ses rivaux. C'est du moins ce qu'affirme Ledjely en Guinée : « presque traumatisé par les avancées de l'Empire du Milieu, le président américain pourrait ne pas être insensible à l'influence grandissante que le pays de Xi Jinping engrange en Afrique. Cela pourrait conduire les États-Unis à se montrer plus attentifs aux principaux partenaires de la Chine sur le continent. Il s'agit notamment de l'Afrique du Sud, du Nigeria et de l'Égypte. En tant que fournisseurs essentiels de minerais de la Chine, la RD Congo et la Guinée pourraient également intéresser les États-Unis. Il en va de même pour l'Angola, le Tchad, mais aussi le Soudan, dont les ressources, notamment pétrolières, sont également convoitées. Dans la même optique, relève encore Ledjely, il est possible que les États-Unis s'impliquent un peu plus dans la résolution de la crise politique et sécuritaire au Sahel. Ce n'est pas que les présidents en treillis issus des coups d'État gênent en quoi que ce soit le président Trump. Mais les liens étroits que ces dirigeants entretiennent avec Moscou peuvent être perçus comme une menace pour les intérêts américains dans la région. Cela signifie qu'Assimi Goïta, Ibrahim Traoré et Abdourahmane Tiani pourraient intéresser Washington. Mais, conclut le site guinéen, il est sans doute trop tôt pour se faire une idée de l'outil que Donald Trump utilisera contre eux : la carotte ou le bâton ? ».Le Maroc applaudit…Enfin, parmi les pays africains qui se félicitent de l'arrivée de Trump au pouvoir, il y a le Maroc…On se souvient qu'en un seul tweet en 2020, Trump avait reconnu la souveraineté du royaume sur le Sahara occidental. Désormais, pointe Le Monde Afrique, le Maroc espère bien que les États-Unis « apporteront la touche finale : l'établissement d'un consulat américain au Sahara occidental. (…) L'acte, s'il venait à se confirmer, serait hautement symbolique ». Pour Rabat, ce serait le signe d'un nouveau « pas en avant vers la résolution, en sa faveur, du litige sahraoui ».

La presse du continent ne se fait aucune illusion. L'état du monde n'est pas la tasse de thé du nouveau président américain et l'Afrique encore moins. Comme le dit WalfQuotidien à Dakar : « Donald Trump n'aura pas à beaucoup secouer l'arbre par rapport aux relations avec l'Afrique qui vraisemblablement n'est pas sa priorité ».En effet, complète Le Pays au Burkina, « l'Afrique n'intéresse pas le désormais président des États-Unis, et pourrait être encore ignorée comme elle l'a été durant son premier mandat. C'est vrai que cette fois, il n'a pas tenu des propos insultants à l'égard de certains États qu'il avait qualifiés de “pays de merde“, mais, pointe Le Pays, ce deuxième mandat risque lui aussi de laisser un souvenir désagréable aux Africains en raison non seulement de sa politique en matière d'immigration, qui fermera les portes de l'Amérique aux jeunes du continent, mais aussi en raison de l'imposition des droits de douane pour les importations africaines aux États-Unis, avec la très forte probabilité de ne pas renouveler, cette année, l'African Growth and Opportunity Act (l'AGOA) qui exonère de taxes douanières un certain nombre de produits en provenance de 32 pays d'Afrique sub-saharienne ».Le culte de l'homme fort…Toutefois, souligne Jeune Afrique, l'homme en tant que tel, avec sa poigne et ses outrances n'est pas sans séduire certains dirigeants du continent… C'est vrai, explique le site panafricain, « certains leaders africains adeptes du néo-virilisme “kiffent“ le style de celui qui est redevenu hier le locataire de la Maison Blanche. Au fantasque Ougandais Yoweri Museveni ou aux putschistes francophones bombeurs de poitrine, le culte de l'homme fort n'est pas pour déplaire. Pour peu que Donald Trump consacre une once d'attention aux pays africains, il pourrait rendre la politesse aux aficionados nationalistes de la poignée de mains vigoureuse. Pour peu, effectivement, qu'il lorgne du côté du continent, car il n'y a effectué aucun voyage officiel lors de son premier mandat. Ces derniers mois, relève encore Jeune Afrique, la campagne électorale de la revanche n'a guère été émaillée d'allusions au continent, ni dans le barnum communicationnel d'Elon Musk, ni dans les diverses auditions de Marco Rubio, le nouveau secrétaire d'État. Mais, s'interroge le site panafricain, n'est-ce pas ce qui convient le mieux à nombre de dirigeants africains ? Comme la Chine ou la Russie, le partenaire international idéal des démocraties approximatives n'est-il pas une puissance économique volontairement aveugle aux modes de gouvernance ou au traitement des droits humains ? ».Un terrain de jeu pour contrer la Chine ?Finalement, le seul intérêt que Donald Trump pourrait trouver à l'Afrique, c'est d'en faire un terrain de jeu pour contrer les avancées de certains de ses rivaux. C'est du moins ce qu'affirme Ledjely en Guinée : « presque traumatisé par les avancées de l'Empire du Milieu, le président américain pourrait ne pas être insensible à l'influence grandissante que le pays de Xi Jinping engrange en Afrique. Cela pourrait conduire les États-Unis à se montrer plus attentifs aux principaux partenaires de la Chine sur le continent. Il s'agit notamment de l'Afrique du Sud, du Nigeria et de l'Égypte. En tant que fournisseurs essentiels de minerais de la Chine, la RD Congo et la Guinée pourraient également intéresser les États-Unis. Il en va de même pour l'Angola, le Tchad, mais aussi le Soudan, dont les ressources, notamment pétrolières, sont également convoitées. Dans la même optique, relève encore Ledjely, il est possible que les États-Unis s'impliquent un peu plus dans la résolution de la crise politique et sécuritaire au Sahel. Ce n'est pas que les présidents en treillis issus des coups d'État gênent en quoi que ce soit le président Trump. Mais les liens étroits que ces dirigeants entretiennent avec Moscou peuvent être perçus comme une menace pour les intérêts américains dans la région. Cela signifie qu'Assimi Goïta, Ibrahim Traoré et Abdourahmane Tiani pourraient intéresser Washington. Mais, conclut le site guinéen, il est sans doute trop tôt pour se faire une idée de l'outil que Donald Trump utilisera contre eux : la carotte ou le bâton ? ».Le Maroc applaudit…Enfin, parmi les pays africains qui se félicitent de l'arrivée de Trump au pouvoir, il y a le Maroc…On se souvient qu'en un seul tweet en 2020, Trump avait reconnu la souveraineté du royaume sur le Sahara occidental. Désormais, pointe Le Monde Afrique, le Maroc espère bien que les États-Unis « apporteront la touche finale : l'établissement d'un consulat américain au Sahara occidental. (…) L'acte, s'il venait à se confirmer, serait hautement symbolique ». Pour Rabat, ce serait le signe d'un nouveau « pas en avant vers la résolution, en sa faveur, du litige sahraoui ».

The Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce has appealed to the incoming Trump administration to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, and the Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief, or PEPFA. President of the chamber Sheriff Balogun told VOA's Chinedu Offor, these policies will boost regional economic growth.

Commerce, aide au développement, relations économiques, même si Donald Trump semble ignorer le continent lors de ces prises de parole, les répercussions sur l'Afrique de sa politique économique pourraient être plus importantes que lors de son premier mandat.  Les économies africaines seront-elles affectés par le protectionnisme à la sauce Trump ? L'augmentation des droits de douanes de 10 voire même 20 % aura nécessairement des conséquences. Toutes les importations américaines seront touchées et les produits africains ne devraient pas échapper à la règle.Les véhicules sud-africains, les diamants du Lesotho, les hydrocarbures comme le pétrole brut du Nigeria ou certains minerais : si Donald Trump applique son programme, les droits de douane augmenteront sur tous ces produits.Les exportations touchées par le protectionnismeSi l'on tient compte du poids des exportations dans le PIB des pays, le Lesotho, Madagascar, le Ghana, la Libye et l'Afrique du Sud seraient les plus touchés selon une étude du cabinet indépendant Global Sovereign Advisory publiée quelques semaines avant l'élection. En 2017, lors de la première élection de Donald Trump à la Maison Blanche, les mesures protectionnistes ne concernaient qu'un petit nombre de produits. Les effets avaient donc été très faibles pour l'Afrique. Là, encore une fois, si Trump fait ce qu'il dit, ça sera plus dur à supporter.À écouter aussiDonald Trump, commerce, guerre en Ukraine, IA : l'état du monde selon trois grands économistesL'Agoa dans le viseur ?Les incertitudes concernent également l'avenir des accords commerciaux et en particulier le principal accord : l'African Growth and Opportunity Act plus communément appelé l'Agoa et qui permet aux pays africains d'exporter vers les États Unis sous conditions.Donald Trump ne s'en cache pas, il est sceptique sur ces cadres multilatéraux. En 2018 il avait déjà suspendu le droit du Rwanda d'exporter des vêtements via l'Agoa. Une sanction envers Kigali qui avait décidé d'augmenter les droits de douanes sur les importations de fripes. Donald Trump utilise cet accord commercial pour faire pression sur les pays bénéficiaires... qui sont d'ailleurs régulièrement soumis à une réévaluation. Le programme arrive à échéance en septembre 2025, et certains experts s'inquiètent. Donald Trump n'a rien spécifié durant sa campagne, mais il pourrait tout à fait décider de modifier l'Agoa qui générait l'année dernière quasiment 50 milliards de dollars d'échanges commerciaux.À écouter aussiDonald Trump: le retour du protectionnisme à la Maison Blanche?Chine touchée = Afrique impactéeIl y aura aussi des conséquences indirectes, notamment si la guerre commerciale entre les États-Unis et la Chine s'intensifie. Des droits de douanes massifs sont attendus sur les produits chinois vendus aux États-Unis. et l'effet mécanique est le suivant : ralentissement de l'économie chinoise donc les pays africains qui exportent beaucoup vers la chine pourraient être affectés. Là, les économistes parlent de pays, comme l'Angola ou la République démocratique du Congo qui exportent leurs minerais vers la Chine.Autre incertitude : l'aide au développement américaine sera-t-elle rabotée par le président Trump ? Elle est très importante pour le continent africain, près de 4 milliards de dollars cette année.Les médias sud-africains se demandent par exemple si le programme américain de lutte contre le VIH se poursuivra. En attendant, les chefs d'États africain font de la politique. C'est un concert de félicitations au président élu depuis une semaine. Car si l'Afrique n'intéresse pas Trump... il est primordial de ne pas se fâcher tout de suite.

Originally uploaded September 25th, re-edited October 31st. Chris Holman welcomes Nick Chaffin, program manager, and Micah Hefty, manager of intercounty operations, WIOA program leaders with CAMW! Lansing, MI THEME: Capital Area Michigan Works! WIOA program leaders give an overview of the WIOA program and their experience as a previous WIOA participant and career coach. Question: My first question is for Nick. What are the primary objectives of the WIOA program at Capital Area Michigan Works!, and how do these objectives align with the broader goals of workforce development in our region? The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act program (WIOA) at CAMW! aims to improve the skills and employability of job seekers by providing access to training, education and job placement services. The program focuses on aligning training with local labor market needs to help individuals secure employment in high-demand industries. A key strategy to accomplish this is engaging with local employers to understand their workforce needs and ensure that the training they provide aligns with industry requirements. The program prioritizes services for disadvantaged populations, including low-income individuals, veterans and those with disabilities. It seeks to provide these groups with the necessary resources and support to overcome barriers to employment, including lack of education, certification or required training. Individuals who are enrolled receive an average of $5,000 that can be used to offset the cost of obtaining credentials for jobs in our region. These credentials may include training within industries like medical services, information technology, manufacturing, truck driving and more. WIOA can also assist with other training and employment retention costs, such as auto repairs, tools, uniforms, equipment and transportation. Furthermore, WIOA includes specific provisions for youth services, focusing on helping young people gain work experience, educational credentials, and career pathways. The objectives of the WIOA program at CAMW! align with broader regional economic development goals by addressing skills gaps and supporting local businesses. By training individuals for in-demand occupations, the program helps drive economic growth and competitiveness in the Capital Area. The resources provided by WIOA also improve workforce quality and mobility, inclusive growth and regional resilience. If you are interested in learning more about the WIOA Program or determining your eligibility, visit the WIOA section on the CAMW! website under the tab “Career Seekers” and “CAMW! Connections.” Please allow 7-9 business days for contact from WIOA Program Staff after submission. » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Acting Director -General of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce Wofai Samuel has advised the incoming US President to show renewed interest in Africa. She called for the strengthening of bi-lateral ties and more investment in infrastructure to rival Chinese investment on the continent. Samuel told reporter Mike Mbonye, the continent expects increased trade and renewal of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA

Originally uploaded September 3, re-edited September 26th. Chris Holman welcomes back Teri Sand, SHRM-CP, PHR, CBSP, CRP, Business Services Manager, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham Eaton, and Clinton Counties THEME: Teri discusses the influx of jobs moving away from degree requirements and toward skill requirements and Capital Area Michigan Works!'s role in connecting job seekers to these positions. ● According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), one in every 7 jobs in the country were filled using skill-based hiring last year. ● This approach opens up the workforce to a diverse range of capabilities and perspectives by removing a requirement that poses a barrier to many candidates who are not able to complete a degree. ● Additionally, according to Workforce Strategies, Inc. (WSI), corporations who implement skill-based requirements for careers are likely to see an increase in efficiency due to a better alignment between workforce needs and properly skilled employees. ● The shift toward skill-based hiring emphasizes the value of hands-on experiences and demonstrated abilities which increases accessibility for job seekers. ● Capital Area Michigan Works! offers several services and supports multiple initiatives that aid job seekers in connecting with skill based positions. ○ CAMW! has opportunities available to provide tuition scholarships through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to individuals in need of skill enhancement. ■ Opportunities under the WIOA Act include apprenticeship programs, which cover on-the-job training and classroom instruction with a full-time wage and benefits. ○ CAMW! provides personalized career counseling, skills assessments and the opportunity to speak with career advisors about resume writing, job search strategies and more. ○ CAMW! holds weekly training programs and skill development workshops at the Lansing AJC and collaborates with local businesses and educational institutions to offer unique development opportunities. ● CAMW! actively engages with local employers to stay informed about employment trends and in-demand skill requirements, which allows us to learn what skills employers in our region are in highest need of and help jobseekers develop those skills. ○ CAMW! hosts frequent Employer of the Day events with local businesses to showcase available positions in our region and provide an easily accessible networking opportunity for job seekers. ● To view more of CAMW!'s job search services, visit camw.org/career-seekers/job-search-resources or follow CAMW! on social media to receive current updates on upcoming networking events, workshops and popular job postings. Teri, feel free to expand and add additional information or thoughts. ● According to Michigan Government data, advanced manufacturing, computer systems, healthcare skills and trades expertise, like HVAC services, are in high demand across the state. ○ In the capital area, medical assistance is in the highest demand. ... ● Job seekers who are looking for skill requirement positions should actively network through job and resource fairs, social media and applying consistently to job postings. ... » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Thursday, September 26th, 2024Today, the Jack Smith 180 page immunity briefing is due today; every Teamsters union in Florida has endorsed Kamala Harris; a Wisconsin mayor is caught stealing a ballot drop box; Alabama Republicans are working to block Glock switches which are like bump stocks for handguns; Georgia Democrats are suing Brian Kemp to force an ethics investigation into the State Elections Board; the House passes a clean government funding bill and are now on break until after the election; Hurricane Helene will jump to a category 4 before landfall in Florida; a top Muslim organization has endorsed Kamala Harris; and the Supreme Court refuses to stay the execution of Marcellus Williams; and Allison delivers your Good News. For a limited time, HomeChef is offering you 18 Free Meals, plus Free Shipping on your first box, and Free Dessert for Life. At https://www.HomeChef.com/DAILYBEANS.Join AG At ‘Creatives for Harris' Virtual Rally 9.26.24 9PM ET, 6PM PT Registration LinkHarris Campaign Social Media Toolkit (kamalaharris.com)Give to the Kamala Harris Presidential CampaignKamala Harris — Donate via ActBlue (MSW Media's Donation Link)Come See AG Saturday, September 28th At The Sexy Liberal Save The World Comedy Tour!Phoenix, Arizona - Get Tickets at: https://sexyliberal.comGuests:Generation Data Co-Founders Nancy Stalnaker (Data Diva) and Matt Mawhinneygenerationdata.orgA Special Excel Training For Daily Beans Listeners!Saturday, October 12 · 10am - 1pm PDTgenerationdata.org/daily-beansStoriesWisconsin mayor carts away absentee ballot drop box, says he did nothing wrong (CNN)Democrats sue over Georgia rules they say could block election certifications (CBS News)GOP lawmakers now back Glock switch ban after mass shooting at Birmingham Hush lounge (AL.com)Every Teamsters union in Florida backs Kamala Harris for President (Florida Politics)Top Muslim-voter organization endorses Harris as Middle East conflict escalates (AP News)Missouri executes Marcellus Williams despite questions over evidence, after Supreme Court denies final bid for delay (CBS News) From The Good NewsWorkforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (dot.gov)The Veterans Access, Choice And Accountability Act Of 2014 (house.gov)The Charlatans - Weirdo HD (YouTube)Inhibition of GSK3α,β rescues cognitive phenotypes in a preclinical mouse model of CTNNB1 syndrome (embopress.org)Researchers Identify Possible Treatment for Rare Disorder (tufts.edu)She's Fly focuses on quality outdoor gear made for women, by women (shesfly.com)So What Else (Food Bank And More | DC Area | sowhatelse.org)If any DC area listeners can help, please email info@sowhatelse.orgCheck Your Voter Registration!vote.orgThere is a new “Harris For President” Patreon tier:https://www.patreon.com/muellershewrote/membership Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.com Follow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill https://muellershewrote.substack.comhttps://twitter.com/MuellerSheWrotehttps://www.threads.net/@muellershewrotehttps://www.tiktok.com/@muellershewrotehttps://instagram.com/muellershewroteDana Goldberghttps://twitter.com/DGComedyhttps://www.instagram.com/dgcomedyhttps://www.facebook.com/dgcomedyhttps://danagoldberg.comHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/OrPatreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

The youth are getting thrifty – how Gen Z and Millennials are reclaiming their financial power. Then, Kabelo Gwamanda must go! But is he the only one to blame for Joburg's ruin? Later, an illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga. How did government miss it? And gold, silver and bronze – our Olympic athletes are bringing home the medals. But first, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (known as AGOA) is once again topping the agenda as the United States is seemingly warming to the idea of keeping South Africa around as a trade partner. Meanwhile, the Minister of Trade and Industry and his Deputy are confident our membership will be renewed. But there's still a lot that could happen between now and September next year. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Some members of the U.S. Congress have called for South Africa to be excluded from the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a U.S. program that grants duty-free access to the enormous U.S. market for many South African exports. Zaheer Cassim reports from Johannesburg on South Africa's effort to remain eligible for the trade program and its evolving relationship with the US.

This week we report on Kenyan President William Ruto's visit to Washington, D.C., the first by an African leader since 2008. We dig into what the occasion means for the relationship between Kenya and the wider African continent, including whether it will lead to closer economic ties between the United States and Africa as a whole. During the conversation, we also look back at our interview with Sen. Chris Coons about the visit, in which we discussed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, and the U.S. Africa policy. We are also keeping a close eye on the farm bill — a $1.5 trillion piece of legislation that shapes food assistance both within the United States and abroad. While the legislation largely focuses on domestic policy, it also governs the operations of Food for Peace, a flagship food assistance program that distributes American-grown commodities across the globe. However, it has been proposed that at least 50% of funds should go toward U.S.-grown commodities and ocean freight. As the reauthorization negotiations continue, we explore the importance of these funds for communities in the global south and contemplate what the potential outcomes of the discussions could be. On the topic of food systems, we also look at a story that explores how Vanuatu is stepping up its efforts to enhance food security by combining traditional practices with modern technology. For the latest episode of the podcast series, Devex Managing Editor Anna Gawel sits down with David Barth from Save the Children and Devex Senior Reporter Adva Saldinger to discuss these stories and others. Sign up to the Devex Newswire and our other newsletters: https://www.devex.com/account/newsletters

OA1031 First up, BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS!!! The Trump Trial Transcript readings will now only be available on patreon.com/gavelpod! Details inside. Then: the Biden administration is moving forward with rescheduling marijuana to a lower federal classification--and Matt is not happy about it? Find out why this long-overdue acknowledgment of the over-criminalization of cannabis may not only be too little too late, but actually the wrong direction for criminal and social justice. And speaking of justice gone wrong: Aileen Cannon. Fort Pierce, Florida's best (and only) federal trial judge has once again put off Trump's classified documents case, this time with no end in sight. We take a closer look at what she is actually doing here before checking in on Trump's latest success in delaying his RICO trial for election interference in Georgia. We finish up with Thomas Takes the Bar Exam, in which Thomas  find out how he did in the strange case of the arsonist who doesn't understand how fire works before wagering his eternal soul on a new question about a sick violinist. Formal HHS recommendation that cannabis be moved to Schedule III (8/29/23) “Legalize it All,” Dan Baum, Harper's (April 2016)(source of 1994 John Ehrlichman quote as personally recorded by the author) Gonzales v. Raich, 545 U.S. 1 (2005) The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (2022 Senate bill removing marijuana from federal drug schedules and putting it under FDA regulation reintroduced by Chuck Schumer on 5/1/2024) Judge Cannon's Order Setting Second Set of Pretrial Deadlines/Hearings (5/7/24) If you'd like to support the show (and lose the ads!), please pledge at patreon.com/law!

The tight grip that the teacher's unions have on our schools and how to overcome it through Universal School Choice. What is Universal School Choice? It's the very basic idea that the money follows the child to whichever source or location of education the parents deem most appropriate for their child. Go to Protect Our Kids (POK) website for resources and weekly articles to support you in the fight for our kids. https://pok.org/Donate to our Podcast Ministry: https://kprz.com/radioshow/9412See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Africa is playing all sides when it comes to foreign policy as the country seeks to position itself as a leading voice of the Global South, and the approach seems to be working - so far. The Brics group of developing nations held its annual summit in South Africa last year and the Group of 20 is set to follow suit in 2025, highlighting Pretoria's growing international sway. President Cyril Ramaphosa's efforts to secure vaccines for Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic, help broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine and bring a genocide case against Israel at the International Criminal Court over its Gaza campaign have further enhanced its profile, despite the mixed results. South Africa, which is confronting a plethora of domestic problems, has long maintained that it adopts a non-aligned position when it comes to international relations. But its increasingly close ties with China, refusal to condemn Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and anti-Israel stance have raised concern in the US and European Union. There haven't yet been repercussions, in part because South Africa remains a key export destination and source of minerals. The USSR and Palestinian groups took a far more proactive stance against apartheid than most Western governments, which partially explains Pretoria's allegiances. US legislators this month dropped a call for an immediate review of South Africa's preferential access to US markets under the African Growth and Opportunity Act when they tabled a revamped bipartisan bill in the Senate that proposes extending the trade pact until 2041. Jim Risch, a Republican from Idaho, had criticized South Africa's eligibility, saying its actions subverted US national security and foreign-policy interests. The US maintains a strong and multifaceted relationship with South Africa that is based on shared values and interests, and is committed to working together to promote global peace, security and bilateral trade among other priorities, a State Department spokesperson said in an emailed response to questions. "South Africa is a sovereign country that can make its own decisions about how to engage with Russia and the People's Republic of China," the spokesperson said. "We're focused on making our relationship even stronger, to the benefit of Americans and South Africans, and we aren't distracted by what others are doing. We recognise the deeply held view by South Africa on the status of Palestinians. We share concerns about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and are actively leading efforts to address it." The EU this month reemphasised its close links with South Africa, the only nation on the continent with which it has a so-called strategic partnership, and said the two plan to hold a bilateral summit. "South Africa is risking the ire of the West, but it's a calculated risk," said Daniel Silke, the director of Cape Town-based Political Futures Consultancy. "There is a push by the Global South and Brics to increase its global assertiveness and South Africa has played a leading role. That gives her a degree of clout and a degree of strength, and makes her less likely to feel as though she needs to be ultra-careful when it comes to dealing with the West." With elections due to take place in South Africa on May 29, the government has sought to portray its enhanced international role and independent positioning as major accomplishments - although foreign policy has historically played little role in swaying voters. Instead, the ruling African National Congress faces a backlash over its failure to tackle rolling blackouts and rampant poverty and unemployment. The party of Nelson Mandela risks losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since it took power three decades ago. South Africa isn't completely in the clear with the US. Its access to Agoa could still be revoked if it's found to have violated the qualifying criteria, including respecting human rights and democracy. Two-way trade between the two nations amo...

It's the summer of 1964 and Lyndon Johnson has just signed the most sweeping civil rights legislation since Reconstruction. It was a continuation of the proposal of John F. Kennedy and LBJ found a way to make it happen, but when it came to the safety net Johnson's vision encompassed far greater legislation. From healthcare to education, unemployment to the media, the arts, and beyond; and much of that work, as we touched on in the last episode, he began under FDR.  By this time LBJ had been a part of the US government for over 25 years with one goal, to become president of the United States. So 1964 after he's become president following the assassination of John Kennedy,  he now had to run for office on his own, and everything he'd worked for was on the line. President Johnson needed to make his mark and form a foundation that was truly his. Although, as we'll explore in later episodes, he is remembered for another war, it was the War on Poverty that he was willing to wager his presidency on. One of the most unique pieces of the war on poverty was Community Action. Community Action Programs or CAPS turned out to be one of the most controversial parts of the war on poverty and simultaneously one of the most revolutionary. The programs were controlled at the local level and the power was in the hands of the people who needed the resources.  In this episode, we will pull apart the fine details of the Economic Opportunity Act, and hear some conversations that illustrate the tension and the steaks of creating some of the most revolutionary safety net programs of the 20th century. We'll talk about why the war on poverty and programs like Community Action, Job Corps, and Head Start were so important to LBJ as a person and as president, we'll talk about the compromises it took to create and pass this legislation, and we'll explore the impact of programs like the Job Corps had on people like heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman.  Special thanks to our guests for this episode, Erine Gray, Guian McKee, Andrew R. Smith, Melody Barnes, and Robert Caro. And thank you as well to The Miller Center at the University of Virginia, The American Presidency Project at The University of California Santa Barbara, and The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum in Austin Texas for their consultation and use of archived materials.  Michael Zapruder arranged and composed the music for this show, and played guitar, with Jeff Olsen on drums, Mike St. Clair on bass, and Sam Lipman on keyboards. Executive Producer, Rebecca McInroy.  Advising Editor, Jim Tuttle Intern, Frances Cutter      

Siphamandla Zondi, professor of politics and international relations at the University of Johannesburg and Patrick Bond, political economist, and Distinguished Professor of Sociology discuss, strengthening economic ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa, during  African Growth and Opportunity Act forum, the significance of the trading relationship with the US what conversation and expectations of the forum. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bill Blackie, Chief Executive of Business & Commerical Banking at Standard Bank joined Business Day TV with a business and commercial banking overview of the 20th US-SSA Africa Growth and Opportunity Act forum.

Ebrahim Patel Minister of Trade and Industry of South Africa discusses expectation the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) labour forum,  trade agreement officially  set to expire in two years, requiring congressional approval for re-authorisation any concerns about unfavourable winds due to domestic US politics.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prof. Adrian Saville, GIBS Professor of Economics, Finance, and Strategy, and Prof. Gilbert Khadiagala, GIBS Professor of International Relations and Director of the African Centre for the Study of the United States, spoke about the upcoming AGOA forum and what is at stake for South Africa and the continent as a whole. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is a part of our Innovation Series, a listening experience that brings the YMCA's innovation process to life through the successes and stories of Y leaders from across the country. This week's podcast guests are Heather Naviasky, Senior Executive Director of Youth Development at the YMCA of Central Maryland, Lyle Batalona, WIOA Services Program Director at the YMCA of San Diego County, and Tosin Akande, Manager, Movement Engagement at Y-USA YMCA staff and volunteers can ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠visit Link⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to access the innovation resources mentioned in this episode. NOTES: Funded by the Department of Labor through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the goal of the Workforce Pathways for Youth Project is to engage four Ys who have been delivering workforce readiness support in their communities, that help young people become career-ready. The YMCA of the USA will then leverage the robust experience of the four Ys and their Workforce Partnership Teams (ie collaborative partners) to increase access to and engagement in workforce readiness efforts. Y-USA will then develop a continuum of evidence-informed, workforce readiness strategies and leading practices to scale through Activation Cohorts. The long-term outcome will be an increase in the number of Ys offering workforce readiness services and an increase in the number of young people served. --- About the Causenetic Podcast: The Causenetic podcast is focused on expanding the Y's mission to audiences and providing conversation, inspiration, and influence. Our hosts, Keith Vinson and Rodrigua Ross, are two YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas employees discussing community topics that are globally-minded and locally-focused. This podcast allows listeners to see a different perspective and connect to community issues. ⁠www.ymcadallas.org/causenetic --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/causenetic/message

Landry Signé, senior fellow in the global economy and development program and the Africa Growth Initiative at the Brookings Institution and executive director and professor of the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, leads the conversation about Africa on the global stage. FASKIANOS: Thank you and welcome to today's session of the Fall 2023 CFR Academic Webinar series. I'm Irina Faskianos, vice president of the National Program and Outreach here at CFR. Today's discussion is on the record and the video and transcript will be available on our website, CFR.org/academic. And, as always, CFR takes no institutional positions on matters of policy. We're delighted to have Landry Signé with us to discuss Africa on the global stage. Dr. Signé is a senior fellow in the global economy and development program and the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings Institution. He's also a professor, executive director, and the founding codirector of The Globalization 4.0 and Fourth Industrial Revolution Initiative at Arizona State University's Thunderbird School of Global Management, and distinguished fellow at Stanford University's Center for African Studies. He serves as chairman of the Global Network for Africa's Prosperity and is also the author of numerous scholarly publications and several books. His most recent is entitled, Africa's Fourth Industrial Revolution. And it was published by Cambridge University Press this summer. So, Dr. Signé, thank you very much for being with us today. I'm going to throw you a very big question, and you can take us in the direction you would like, by talking about the important challenges and opportunities facing countries across Africa. SIGNÉ: Hello, everyone. And thank you so much, Dr. Irina, for so kind an introduction. It's a pleasure to be with all of you today. So when it comes to Africa, I want to highlight a few key trends why Africa is playing such an important role in the global sphere. So the first thing that I want to share to everyone is Africa's transformation is more substantial than what most people will think. And this is for many reasons. One is that, especially pre-pandemic, trade and in and with the rest of the world have grown for about 300 percent, which exceeds the global average of a little bit less than 200 percent. So that is a key dimension to highlight. And this is also driven by the competition between emerging countries, such as, of course, Russia, Indonesia, Brazil, China, and more established and industrialized nations such as the United States, France, and others. So that is one of the key trends that I want to highlight. So Africa is richer and is transforming much more than what most people will be thinking. So the second trend that I also want to highlight, why Africa is so important in the global sphere, is that by the end of this century Africa could reach about 40 percent of the global population. Listen, I said 40 percent. So this is incredible, especially as the continent represent now only about 17 percent of the global population. So that is a key dimension to take into consideration when speaking about Africa, how Africa engages with the rest of the world. A third trend that I also want to highlight is really the rise of global partnerships and the competition, as I highlighted, between emerging and established powers. So, as a matter of fact, between 2006 and 2016, for example, China trades with Africa surge with imports increasing by 233 percent, and exports increasing by about 53 percent. This is a substantial growth in engagement. And if we compare—so with Russia, for example, it was about 142 percent of change in imports from Africa and about 168 percent change in exports with Africa. So in comparison, and with the rest of the world was only about 56 percent for change in imports and 18 percent for change in export. So this is another key trend. And a country like the United States still needs to expand and to do much more in terms of those engagement. This also apply with—to the countries in the European Union in general. So another trend that I want to highlight is really the, let's say, fast urbanization that we see on the continent. So the continent will be growing from about five cities—will reach about five cities of more than ten million inhabitants, in comparison of only three in 2015. And will exceed fifteen cities of more than five million inhabitants, in comparison of about five to six in the recent year. So another point, when people speak about Africa, I want to speak about industrialization in Africa. Of course, we have to acknowledge the diversity of the continent. Some would say fifty-four member states, because we have about—those other ones recognized by the United Nations. But don't be surprised if you also hear people mentioning instead fifty-five countries, because the Western Sahara is also consider as a member of the African Union. So when speaking about industrialization, people may—some people may consider Africa as deindustrializing. But that is because they're not looking at one of the things that we call at the Brookings Institution industries without smokestacks. Those industries are important because they have similar characteristic when they compare to traditional manufacturing. And those similar characteristics include, for example, the tradability, they are labor intensive, and the store—they absorb a high quantity of moderately skilled workers. But they are also—they also have a high level of productivity. Irina, you mentioned my book on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. I want to connect, because when people speak about digitalization, innovation, they will mostly think about the Silicon Valley. They will think about some of the emerging nations—Israel, India—in addition to the U.S., of course. A key dimension to highlight is that in the 1990s New York City had more mobile phone subscribers than the entire continent of Africa, where now the continent has hundreds of millions of mobile phone subscribers. So in addition, we have disruptive innovations such as mobile banking, with M-PESA, for example, which is a digital application allow—which allow to provide banking services, digital banking services, to African citizens. This is another illustration of the important dynamics with Africa. Let me finish with about two or three additional points, and I'm looking very much forward to the conversation. I will highlight the critical importance of regional integration. We have, for example, the African Continental Free Trade Area, which was adopted in 2018, ratified by a sufficient number of country in 2019, and was officially launched in January 2021. And that is an incredible speed from the signing to the coming into force of the second-largest trade organization in the world, or let's say trade area in the world, after the World Trade Organization, of course, in terms of number of countries. So this is a key dimension. And another trend to highlight, despite some of the challenges that we see in many African countries in terms of democratic retreat. The overall trend is that African citizens want democracy. So they want accountability. But they also want democracy to deliver. And let me finish with a trend related to business. The combined consumer and business spending in Africa will reach or exceed $16 trillion U.S. dollars by 2050, and about $6.7 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030. So Africa really is a place with phenomenal opportunities, despite the challenges that we see. Climate change affects Africa more than other regions, for example. Some of the most vulnerable countries in terms of state fragility. We have, as I also mentioned, some democratic recession. But despite those challenges, the continent is really growing and is really transforming at a very important pace. And I enthusiastically look forward to engaging, to answering your many questions. Thank you so much. FASKIANOS: Thank you very much. That was a great overview. Obviously, this is such a big topic. So now we're going to go to all of you for your questions. (Gives queuing instructions.) Alright, so the first question we're going to take is from Pearl Robinson. Pearl over to you. Q: Hello. Very pleased to meet you. I have a question, something I'm going to ask you to do. I'm at Tufts University. FASKIANOS: Thanks, Pearl. Q: Can you use this wonderful, optimistic introduction, and connect it with a discussion of the wave of coups in the West African Sahel? Because I find myself having to talk about both. And I thought that you began with the last decade's narrative of Africa's growth and opportunities. And today, everybody is talking about democratic decline and all of these coups in the context of everything. So I'd like you to put your talk onto an introduction for me to talk about the coup situation. SIGNÉ: Absolutely. Thank you so much for the question. So I have studied the—also the democratic situation in Africa from the—from the independence to the last decade. And one of the reasons, of course, when you have democratic interruption, there are serious reasons to be concerned. And this is mostly related to the ability of democratic governance to deliver. Typically when democracy is promoted with many of the Africans, one of the key argument which was chose is that democracy allows citizens to have a better standard of living, deliver economic outcomes, education, health, security, good governance, less corruption, among others. And many of the countries which have faced a coup are countries—when you think about Mali, we think about Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Chad, among others—there are countries where citizen are facing serious economic—a serious economic situation, deteriorated by the pandemic, of course. They are not the only country but deteriorated by the pandemic. You also have a question—the security question in the Sahel especially, with violent extremism. But I want to put things in perspective because democratic development is a slow-moving process. And although it is very unfortunate some of the development that you are seeing in terms of coups, when you look at Africa in the long-term perspective, when I was looking, for example, in the 1980s, almost the entire continent was red. Red, meaning authoritarian. But now the majority of African countries have elections. More than half of those country have free, fair, and transparent, meaningful elections. They are able to choose their government. And this so I'd just highlight those point, to say I classify those countries—I had them in four categories. So one was the uninterrupted democracy. So the countries which once they become democracies, they remain uninterrupted democratic. And those countries are outperforming overall, economically speaking and with many of the other benefits of democracy that I've mentioned. But the countries which are interrupted are mostly the countries where democracy is not necessarily delivering wealth. But will that change the broader trend on the continent? I don't think so. So I think, yes, we have to acknowledge those challenges. We have to act vigorously to address them to reduce the negative impact. But those are not necessarily—I don't think that that makes Africa a hopeless continent, as depicted by the Economist in the early 2000s, as discussed before. I'll pause there. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to take a written question from Tanisha Fazal's student Jack Drouin, and they're at the University of Minnesota: Will Africa as a whole ever compete at the same level as the United States and China in international trade and production? SIGNÉ: So the idea behind the African continental trade area is to make Africa stronger internationally when dealing with the rest of the world, while unlocking also the potential of trade within Africa. For example, when African countries trade with one another, more than 40 percent of products exported are manufactured products. Which mean that they create jobs and opportunities for young people, for women, for the economy. They accelerate industrialization. And when African countries trade with the rest of the world, about only 17 percent of those countries—of those—of the products exported are manufactured products. So the idea really behind the African Continental Free Trade Area is not just to grow African trade with—and improve countries' trading with one another. But it is also really to make Africa stronger when engaging with other countries. As a matter of fact, Africa still represents less than 3 percent of global exports. So this the reason why when I engage with some leaders, some are wondering if whether the AfCFTA was really needed. There is no doubt that the African Continental Free Trade Area was needed, because partnering and coming together to engage with them makes the continent stronger. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I've never seen so many questions. So I'm going to go next to Fordham IPED. They have their raised hand. It's the International Political Economy and Development Program at Fordham. Q: Hi. My name is Julisha. I'm a student here at Fordham in the IPED Program. And thank you for your presentation, Landry, if I may call you that—I'm sorry, Professor. My question is—and I come from the continent. My question to you is, you seem very optimistic about Africa, as we call it. But why exactly? What gives you this optimism, given the fact that different countries have varying problems, and also we've got different levels of infrastructure and productive capacities? And then also, we haven't had that much success in relation to the regional FTAs. So why optimistic specifically about this one? Should we focus more on maybe building stronger regional bodies and then come together as one consortium? SIGNÉ: Thank you so much for your question. I don't think that it is either/or. And you have to put in perspective also, again, when—I like to look at things from a historical perspective, putting things in context. And when we put things in context—again, I mentioned, for example, before, in less than a couple of decades Africa went from being a continent almost full of authoritarianism, to a continent where in perhaps the past six, seven years you have had an incredibly important number of countries which where the incumbent lost the election or was changed through an electoral process. So those are important gains not to overlook. When we also speak about poverty, for example, so we are also seeing positive—although, and I published an article at Brookings about it—why, despite the fast economic growth just before the pandemic, the continent had an important number of poverty. The key dimension here was poverty in terms of percentage of the population went down, but the continent is also growing at a fast rate, the population of the continent. So which means that even if you're in relative number you have a reduction of poverty, in absolute number we can still have an important number of poor. But if you also put that further in context, by removing—of course, you could not remove them—but by considering Nigeria and Democratic Republic of Congo, which are countries with the highest concentration—not the highest, but an important number of poor, the picture related to poverty on the continent will be very different. Another reason of my lucid optimism is that Africa—more than 50 percent of the African—close to 60 percent of the African population is below the age of twenty-five. So what this means, that everything is possible in an incredibly short duration. You probably know what we have named the Cheetah—what George Ayittey has named the Cheetah Generation. So the generation of young Africans who are dynamic, they are innovative, in opposition to the elephant who are moving slowly. So this is also another characteristic. When you look at innovation and you look at entrepreneurship, the general entrepreneurship survey globally, when you compare Africa to the rest of the world, the percentage of optimism, of interest in innovation, in entrepreneurship, of willingness and of respect for the field is also higher in general. So, again, I understand why most people will be focusing on challenges versus opportunity. But you also know, like me, that when in 2000 the Economist wrote that article about a hopeless Africa, in 2011 they wrote another issue about Africa rising, apologizing about their previous assessment. Because six to seven of the world's ten fastest-growing economies in the first decade—the first fifteen years of the twenty-first century, were located in Africa. So yes, we have numerous challenges. But most countries, which were at the level of development of many of the African countries, have also had challenges. So. yes, we have to address those challenges. And that is also part of what my work does with the Brookings Institution—identifying how to bridge the gap between the policy intentions and the implementation outcome. And a part of doing that is also to shift the mindset from looking exclusively at the challenges that Africa is facing, to also think about what are the opportunities? How can we identify those opportunities? How can we transform those opportunities into reality, into positive outcomes? Because the young generation in Africa deserve it. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to take the next written question from Dayanara Miranda, who's an undergraduate student at Lewis University: My question is, besides agricultural and mineral resources, what other markets can African countries enter to grow their economies? SIGNÉ: So, that is another extremely important question. And let me say, overall Africa—so, it depends as to whether we are speaking about the consumer spending, household consumptions, or whether we are speaking about business spending. In terms of household consumption, by 2030 the continent will receive about $2.5 trillion U.S. dollars of household consumption or consumer spending. And some of the largest sector include food and beverage because people need to eat, but also include housing, healthcare, financial services, transportation, and education. So to put things in perspective, African countries will be growing faster in some of those sectors compared to the growth of other developing economies. Now, if I also think now about the business-to-business spending, so the continent will be home of about—of more than $4 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030. Of course, the largest area for that spending will include agriculture and agri-processing. But we will also have manufacturing, construction, utilities, transportation, wholesalers, and retailers in terms of resources. So, yes, a place—Africa is an important business destination for people who are, again, open to identify opportunities and to manage the risk. Of course, have risk, but those risks also exist in Latin America, exist in the Middle East. exist in the broader—in the broader Asia, and also in the—in some of the advanced economies. So, again, I think, like, a change of mindset is important. One of the reasons why China become the first trade partner of Africa, the first investor in infrastructure amount order, is because while other countries were looking at the challenges that Africa is facing, China and other emerging countries were looking at opportunity and how to manage their risk amount order. Of course, that is not to say that the Chinese model of engagement is necessarily the right one, but it's just to say that the difference of mindset may explain why some country may be identifying more opportunities than other. But I'm also very happy to highlight the fact that recently, the U.S. administration has also been very much active—much more active in terms of engaging with Africa from an economic perspective, from an opportunity business perspective, including the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act. Thank you. FASKIANOS: Thank you. Thank you. I'm going to take the next question from Dorian Brown Crosby. Q: Yes. Hello. Thank you, Professor Signé, for this discussion. I'm from Spelman College. And I do have a question regarding remittances. Can you speak to the current impact of remittances that those in the diaspora are sending to African countries? And how is that affecting Africa's economic trajectory? Or even speak to a specific country. Thank you. SIGNÉ: Absolutely. Thank you very much for the questions. Remittances are playing a key role in Africa. In some of the countries they are exceeding even, let's say, the official development assistance. So that is a key point to highlight. Perhaps the nuance that I want to bring is that most of the remittances are sent for consumption, for family consumptions, among others. A shift that we may want to see happen is to turn—(inaudible)—to increase perhaps those remittances, and especially the category of remittances, shifting only from consumption, for productive use, for economic use, for entrepreneurial activities, as well on the continent. But, yes, remittances are key for development. They are extremely important. They are making a difference. And I connect with that question with the notion of diaspora. The rising role of the diaspora is also one of the key trends. Of course, I didn't—I wanted to be brief in my preliminary comments, but diaspora are really playing a key role in fostering the relations between Africa and the rest of the world. They play the role of investor. You have also the remittances, as you have just mentioned. They are diplomat. In addition of the higher representation that we are also seeing of people of African origin in international organizations, whether we speak about the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, the International Finance Corporation, among other. So there's really a trend where the diaspora playing a key role, both financially to remittances and have an increased demand, also for investment. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to combine two questions, two written questions, because they are along the same lines. One from Thomas at Oklahoma State University and Kihoa from Adelphi University, and it has to do with China: China's trade with—China's aid to Africa, is it purely altruistic? Should African states be receiving Chinese aid? And should Africa be giving aid to historically authoritarian regimes? And then the second question is to have you talk a little bit about the Belt and Road Initiative, and how that initiative is influencing trading partners with other Western countries. SIGNÉ: Absolutely. Thank you for the important question. So let me—to further speak about China in Africa, some key trends to highlight is that, first, you have an exponential growth of exports to Africa, increase imports from Africa, substantial lending to African countries. So China is already one of those, the major lending on transport, power, and mining, the Ex-Im Bank is really leading the way in terms of loans. I do prefer to speak about development versus assistance, development finance instead of developing assistance, or on the longer term, a growing trend in terms of FDI. So China is dominating also the important investment on the continent. You have an important presence of Chinese workers, and forgot—not to forget the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which remains critical to an action of the multiplication of the of the Confucius Institutes on the continent. Despite that important presence, a key element you mentioned is that per Afrobarometer survey, African citizen still prefer the U.S. model of development to the Chinese one. So this is an important dimension that I want to highlight. And whether China is altruistic, it's important to mention when we speak about the commitment, they are not necessarily—China is a country with its own national interests. Perhaps the way of doing business is different, but they are not acting toward Africa, from my perspective, from an altruistic perspective. They're really looking to achieve interest, whether from a geopolitical dimension, economic interest to secure especially energy, power, mining, oceans, agricultural lands for food security in China, among others. And many of the other countries in the world are doing the same. So I'm not—so, of course, we are speaking more about China, but most of the countries when they're acting globally they are acting in alignment of their interests. And probably Jentleson, for example, has mentioned when we speak about the U.S. foreign policy as some of their drivers, which include what are the—of course, we have power, we have peace, we have prosperity, and we have principles. So foreign policy decisions are usually, let's say, the result of a tradeoff between either power consideration, peace consideration, or security consideration, economic consideration, and principle consideration, which could include democratic development, and, of course, humanitarian intervention, and so on. So it depends on which country we are talking about. And to just connect it to the broader Belt and Road Initiative, I think that, of course, it is part from my perspective of China ambition to become the next global power. And in my conversation with many of the African leaders, their main concern—including head of states and head of governments—so their main concern is given the gap, the infrastructure gap that we have on the content, financing gap that you have on the continent, China is providing an alternative and China is acting quickly. However, many of the leaders with whom I'm engaging will prefer to deal instead with, for example, the United States. The United States is probably acting slower than some of the other players. But this is also because of the democratic process and the compliance mechanism, among others. But despite that, I think that there are still tools which can allow to be compliant, to respect the democratic principle, but also act faster, with more agility. And we are having conversations. I testified before the Senate on some of those questions, before the House of Representatives, before the U.S. International Trade Commission, sharing perspective on how the U.S. can further leverage its strength and the alignment to advance U.S.-Africa prosperity. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to take the next oral question from John O'Toole. Q: Well, thank you, because my question directly kind of follows off of that. So that's very fortunate. FASKIANOS: Fantastic. Q: So my question was related to, like, Africa on, like, the global security scale. So, like you said, like, Russia and China are investing heavily, are—and becoming, like, major players, some might argue, in an attempt to be, like, first to market, in a way, in terms of being, like, colleagues with Africa. And you can't really pick and choose who your partners are, especially if the people you want to work with, like the United States or the EU, aren't moving as fast. But is there a concern that growing relationships with China and Russia could morph into a global security conflict? And that some African leaders might be afraid of becoming perhaps the next Lumumba where they're characterized as, you know, perhaps a communist pawn, or something? Is that part of the thought process? SIGNÉ: Thank you for the important question. So it's important to highlight a few considerations here. Typically, when many of the more established powers, whether you're speaking about France, the United States, UK, when they are engaging with many of the African countries they take into consideration the principles that I mentioned before, whether we speak about democratic principles, human rights consideration, humanitarian consideration, among other. So those are really key dimensions that are taken into consideration with more traditional African partners, although it is not uniform. So you will also have the same country which will be trading both with some of the authoritarian countries. But when doing so, they will often bring the question of democratic governance, of human rights in the conversation. And the difference there with countries such as China or Russia, is they are decoupling trade, investment, and principle quotient of democracy—democratic quotients, human rights quotients. For obvious reason, when you look also at your level of democratic development, or at the situation of human rights in your—in your countries. So now, what are the potential risk for the continent? I think that the—many of the—we have seen the presence, whether in an official capacity or in an unofficial capacity of foreign forces in Africa, including from Russia. So to what extent are they influencing the political sphere? To what extent are they fueling or contributing to fuel some of the insecurity and conflict that we have, as we say, in the Sahel? Or to what extent are they helping those country to address some of the challenges faced? I think the growing support that we have seen for Russia, or China, or for some of the emerging countries is related to a narrative, which may not always be founded, but a more appeasing and more respectful narrative that they have when engaging with some of the African countries. But that doesn't mean that they are acting in a way which better advance the interests of those countries. And African leaders are often in a complex situation where they don't necessarily—some of them, of course, will be very clear in terms of their preferences for Western countries. And others, in between, where they want to be certain that they will not be dropped, if I can use the terms. And this is because historically, even some of the best partners of the West—and we look at the case of Niger, when the military coup happened, so despite some political discourses the West was not able to do much. So those are elements which create also a certain level of insecurity on the continent. So yeah, your question is extremely important. And I think that there are risks which are associated with the—with the growing involvement of those emerging powers, like China, especially as it is shifting or has shifted from the economic quotient to a more security, military quotient and cooperation. But some of the countries with which they are cooperating, or perhaps even most of those countries in terms of military engagement, are not necessarily countries with their reputation or leaders with the reputation of—or with the best record in terms of democratic progress or in terms of human rights. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to take the next question from Zachary Billot, a student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas: How will increased environmental challenges related to climate change impact institution and governmental efficacy in Africa? Can Africa be expected to transition to green energy if there isn't substantial foreign investment? SIGNÉ: Absolutely. It is extremely important. Thank you for the question. It's extremely important to highlight the consequences of climate change on the continent, especially in the fragile countries, in the fragile regions, especially also when combined with governance challenges. So many of the conflicts in the Sahel—and I publish a—I co-published a report with Brookings on the question on how—on the nexus—on the climate change-security-development nexus. So many—if climate change doesn't necessarily—the relation between climate change and conflict is not necessarily causal, but there is a strong correlation at least when it comes to exacerbating initial conditions in regions where you have poverty and where governance is already quite weak. So the question is, yes, climate change is increasing the likelihood of conflict, especially in an area where we already have bad governance, or poor performance. And how to address some of those questions? Of course, we have involved also in drafting the human development—the Sahel Human Development Report, where the topic is on using energy to unlock Africa potential to contribute to sustainable development, how we can leverage in a sustainable way. And, yes, I do believe that the continent has a path. So of course, I will not necessarily disclose the findings, because they will have to be officially launched by the United Nations Development Program later this year, early the next one. But there is a clear path for Africa to achieve a greener future, especially as the continent has, I would say, the luxury of learning from what has been done on the negative experiences of some of the advanced economies. But also on capitalizing on technology to achieve those goals. Now, you mentioned about investment. Yes, that is an area where global partners who have committed, including the United States, France, Canada, among others, to support a greener revolution, economic revolution, energy transition, industrial development on the continent also have to play their part. Of course the global community, the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation, among others. So Africa has the potential to achieve it, but not alone. With the collaboration of global partners, including some of the biggest polluters. FASKIANOS: Great, thank you. I'm going to go next to Alicia Hoffman. Q: Hello. How are you? I have a question regarding some previous legal agreements that were put forth between the ACP countries and the European Union. So my question is, I would like for you to highlight and discuss the role of the comprehensive legal agreements such as the Rome Agreement, that is now defunct, the Lomé Agreement, the Cotonou Agreement and now the post-Cotonou Agreement, which was just finalized last month, and get some of your opinions or your thoughts about the post-Cotonou Agreement in fostering the economic development of African countries. And also mitigating the issues dealing with migration and even human trafficking that kind of were not really addressed clearly in those earlier agreements, such as the Rome, and Lomé, and the Cotonou. SIGNÉ: Thank you so much for the extremely important question. So I think that to put things in context, as you mentioned, the Lomé Agreement, the Cotonou Agreement, and other agreement, when we look—again, I like to look from an historical perspective. So we clearly see that if a single agreement was almost having the impact of a magic stick, Africa will be in a different position now. So all those agreements, of course, and some of those agreements are benefiting, at least per the perspective of some of the African countries, they are benefiting more the European Union countries and France than perhaps, per se, in the absolute term, the African countries. Because many of the key players in those countries in industrial development, among others, are foreign corporations, which are originating from those countries. But let me instead speak in a in a broader perspective. I think that the responsibility for Africa's development really lie primarily with African leaders and citizens. So it's a notion that I think we should really come back to. Of course, when we discuss then the relation within Africa and the rest of the world, Africa has been historically in a situation where it was abused—from slavery, to colonization, and so on. But as you have seen in in my permanent record, I'm also part—most of my work consists not only at looking at those structural asymmetries that we can see on the continent, but at giving back the responsibility, accountability of the African leaders, despite the asymmetrical relation they may be having with some of the other part of the world, still have the power and the responsibility to better deliver for their citizens. So, yes, I think that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as I mentioned, also represents an opportunity to address some of those challenges. But, of course, some countries will—we also have the political economy of the AfCFTA, in the sense that some country—and the ones which are the most advanced, economically speaking—the most enthusiastic about accelerating the implementation. But the beauty of the AfCFTA is that they also acknowledge some of the country we may potentially be left behind and have specific growth or special and differential treatments allowing the countries with more challenges to be—to be developed. So, again, I think that, yes, it's extremely important for Africa when engaging with the European Union to really find a configuration which would unlock the industrial development of the continent, and not necessarily just rely on the primary goods, among others. FASKIANOS: So, thank you. I'm you're going next to Charlotte Langeveld, who's a lecturer at Ocean County College: To which identity do the young African people prefer to be associated with, ethnic or national identity? While national identity is superficial and ethnic is real, it has consequences for the future of the continent. SIGNÉ: So yeah, so that is probably a specific survey should be developed and in a systematic way to provide a definitive response to that question. But we have different, again, multiple belonging. Like some African citizens, especially young people, will want to be presented as African, even beyond your nation, or as global citizens. But it is clear that ethnic—the ethnicity continues to play a role on the continent, because although younger Africans speak less than the previous generation local dialects and languages, so it is important to also highlight that it is part of a broader cultural system. So I don't think that it is either/or. So if you think also about citizens of the Africa—of the European Union, are French people considering more French than European, or more European than French? I would say it probably depends, but that multiple belonging remain valid. And although the comparison is slightly different, are Californians believing that they are more Californian than American or are more American than Californian? So, but understanding also the potential implication of the question is that it is extremely important to keep—in nation-building to go beyond the questions or the notions which are dividing, to focus on the common values, and systems. So I don't think that's a problem for young people to have multiple belongings or ideas of belonging. What is—what could be a bad thing is to use those differences for discrimination, for poor governance, among others. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to go next to Kimberly Pace. Q: Hello, Landry. It's nice to see you. I have—my question is—hi, University of Alaska, Anchorage. My question is regarding women and girls. My question is, you know, given the role that violent extremism has had in Africa, what is the effect—what do you think is the effect on the economic and political opportunities for girls and women across African countries? Would love to hear your response. SIGNÉ: Absolutely. Hello, Kimberly. And so great to see you. And so I'm looking forward to following up after this session. So this is an extremely important question. There is no future of Africa without a full acknowledgement of the critical importance of women and girls, and not just economically speaking, politically speaking, in all the spheres of society. Just speaking economically, the gross domestic product of the content in some country could be increased by more than 50 percent with the full—or, about 50 percent—increase from 2 to 48, 49 percent with the full integration of women in society, in the economy, among other. So, and it is incredibly painful to see how in some countries, especially in situations of conflict, some of the first victim—the main victims, are girls, are women, or young people in as well, in general. So it is therefore extremely important, I think, to further empower women. But when you speak about empowering women, most people will think about empowering them politically, in particular. But for my conversation with many heads of state—former head of states, including President Banda or President Gurib-Fakim, so in our conversation it appear clearly that one of the best way to empower women politically is first to empower them also economically. Because when you're empowered economically you can organize a campaign, you can be a fully contributing member, and you can be independent. So, yes, addressing conflict, human rights challenges, will be a way to further protect women, because when you have war, when you have civil conflict, they are typically the most vulnerable people and they are often the one who are the most abused by a protagonist. So yeah. So I fully concur to the fact that we have to act in a more vigorous way to protect women, to create opportunities for women, and to empower women. And some of my best models, not to say most, are women. And starting with my mother, my sisters, and yeah. So I couldn't agree more with you. FASKIANOS: Thank you. I'm going to take the next question from William Decourt, who's at Hamilton Lugar School at Indiana University: You mentioned surveys indicating widespread support for democracy across the continent. How have you seen public opinion in Africa responding to or shaping norms of liberal governance on the continent? And has it been affected by other challenges, such as the recent coups, influence from Russian mercenaries, and perhaps from increased Chinese investment too? SIGNÉ: So, just to be certain that I understand, and thank you so much for the important questions, is also about some of the trends on the continent related to democratic support, and the overall political situations. One of the reasons, and please, Irina, feel free to engage and follow up as needed. So one of the reasons why we have seen coups, of course, some—you have to put things in context. I mentioned that before. Many of the African citizens really want democracy to deliver. And not just democracy to deliver—if you live in rural contexts. At the origin of modern states is the social contract, which require that while a citizen will be giving up some of your fundamental—some of your rights, you will receive in exchange from states basic public services and goods, including security, economic opportunities, among others. But when those are not delivered, whether in a democracy or in a nondemocratic regime, that is when you have more challenges. Which could lead in some cases to a military coup, as we have seen, because then coup leaders may justify that—may justified their action by the imperative of restoring security or bringing about economic opportunities. So I think that is a point that I first want to highlight, to insist on the fact that, yeah, so the—those surveys show that on one hand, Africans want democracy. On the other hand, they want those democracies to deliver. And sometime even in democratic countries, some leaders are not necessarily governing in the way which is aligned with accountability. And those are the reasons why some coup leaders will also be supported by some citizens as an alternative, not to restore a long-term authoritarian system, but perhaps organize a transition. But from my perspective, it's one of the reasons why I think that—for many reasons. But one of the key reasons why I think coups even in a very contested context are extremely bad is one of the best predictors of a coup is a previous coup. So once military got involved in politics, even after a successful short-term transition and return to power to the civilians, the likelihood of having another coup is high. So that is one of the reasons why I think it's very important to invest in citizen, and invest in democratic development, and also invest in making democratic countries, African democracies, African democratic countries, deliver better for their citizens. FASKIANOS: Well, Landry, we are unfortunately out of time. And I apologize to all of you who had wonderful questions, we could not possibly get to them all, and raised hands. So we will just have to continue the conversation, and organize another conversation around these important issues. But, Landry Signé, thank you very much for being with us today. We really appreciate your comments and your analysis. And you can follow Landry on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @LandrySigne. It's spelled S-I-G-N-E. And our next Academic Webinar will be on Wednesday, October 25, at 1:00 p.m. (EDT) with Stephen Biddle, who's an adjunct senior fellow here at CFR and professor at Columbia University, to talk about military strategy in the contemporary world. And in the meantime, I'd encourage you to learn about CFR paid internships for students and fellowships for professors at CFR.org/Careers. Please visit CFR.org, ForeignAffairs.com, and ThinkGlobalHealth.org. We have been posting a lot of content there in light of the Israeli-Hamas conflict. So there are a lot of resources on our homepage that I commend to all of you. And again, Landry Signé, thank you very much for being with us today. SIGNÉ: Thank you so much, Irina. And thank you so much for the wonderful questions, conversation, and to the incredible team which has put everything together. FASKIANOS: Thank you. (END)

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: Data Analytics Manager Chris Magee recaps a new LLA report that examines Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs to answer questions about service delivery and administration, WIOA spending, and the number of participants enrolled compared to the eligible population, program success, and potential improvements. | https://LLA.La.gov/go/podcast

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: Data Analytics Manager Chris Magee recaps a new LLA report that examines Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs to answer questions about service delivery and administration, WIOA spending, and the number of participants enrolled compared to the eligible population, program success, and potential improvements. | https://LLA.La.gov/go/podcast

La capitale du Botswana, Gaborone, accueillait, il y a une dizaine de jours, le 15e « US-Africa Business Summit », un sommet des affaires entre les États-Unis et l'Afrique. L'administration Biden entendait en effet renouer avec l'Afrique, il y a 7 mois, lors du sommet de Washington. Mais l'un des points qui reste en suspens est l'avenir de l'Agoa. l'African Growth and Opportunity Act doit expirer en 2025 et il n'est pas encore certain qu'elle sera renouvelée à l'identique. De notre envoyée spéciale à GaboroneL'Agoa, cette loi signée en 2000, était jusque-là l'une des pierres angulaires de la stratégie commerciale des États-Unis pour ouvrir leur marché à une quarantaine de pays africains. Elle permet aux pays africains éligibles d'exporter certains produits vers les États-Unis sans droits de douane et le continent en a profité à hauteur de 10 milliards d'euros d'exportations sur l'année 2022. Pour le président du Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi qui accueillait ce sommet des affaires États-Unis/Afrique dans sa capitale, il est impératif que cette loi soit prolongée.« Nous souhaitons très sérieusement que l'administration Biden renouvelle l'Agoa. Un renouvellement maintenant, avec un mandat plus étendu, enverrait un signal fort et apporterait de la confiance aux marchés. Cela servirait également de catalyseur pour l'industrialisation de l'Afrique et son inclusion au sein des chaînes de valeur mondiales. »Cinq pays profitent largement de l'AgoaMais le programme connait aussi des critiques. Depuis sa mise en place, il n'a bénéficié qu'à un petit nombre de produits, avec en premier lieu les exportations de pétrole brut. Pour les autres marchandises, jusqu'en 2021, cinq pays – l'Afrique du Sud, le Kenya, le Lesotho, Madagascar et l'Éthiopie – concentraient plus des trois quarts des exportations effectuées grâce à ce régime, notamment grâce aux filières textile et automobile déjà bien développées.Osvaldo Gómez Martínez, adjoint aux affaires africaines du bureau américain au commerce, reconnaît qu'il y a besoin de changement : « L'Agoa a été au cœur de nos relations économiques, entre les États-Unis et l'Afrique, et cela reste vrai. Mais le monde a changé, nous avons tous changé en 20 ans. Et même s'il y a d'importantes conversations, très dynamiques, autour du futur, l'Agoa ce n'est pas le seul outil de notre politique commerciale, afin d'améliorer et de renforcer nos partenariats économiques États-Unis/Afrique. »Certaines exportations africaines peuvent, de plus, déjà bénéficier du système de préférences généralisé, sans passer par l'Agoa. La loi apparaît aussi comme moyen de pression commerciale, pour faciliter l'accès de produits américains sur le continent. Et la décision, chaque année, de renouveler ou non l'éligibilité des pays, ne crée pas un environnement stable pour investir, comme le regrette l'Atlantic Council, dans un nouveau rapport. L'ancienne secrétaire d'État française, Rama Yade, est directrice Afrique de ce think tank :« La critique principale, par rapport à l'Agoa, a été qu'il a pu être utilisé comme outil politique. Parfois ça peut se justifier : l'année dernière, l'Éthiopie a été exclue des bénéfices de l'Agoa, comment continuer à faire commerce en ignorant les milliers de morts, les viols, les crimes de guerre ? Dans d'autres cas, peut-être moins, c'est ce que disent certains africains. »L'émergence de partenariats bilatéraux et le développement de la Zone de libre-échange africaine (Zlecaf), pourraient aussi contribuer à transformer le programme américain.À lire aussiUn 15e sommet des affaires États-Unis-Afrique pour redynamiser les échanges avec le continent

The African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, gives duty-free access for exports to the American market, and has done for 23 years. South Africa is one of the countries that has benefitted – but now its inclusion in doubt due to allegations from the US that it has violated its neutrality and supplied weapons to Russia - something South Africa denies. So what would being pushed out of AGOA mean for the country? Plus we hear from Ethiopia – it has been suspended from AGOA due to the the war in Tigray - we hear from an economist in Addis Ababa who disputes the benefits of these trade agreements to Africa. Presented by Ahmed Adan with reporting by Russell Padmore. (Image: An Ivory Coast stand at the 2019 AGOA forum, showcasing products on the market. Credit: Getty Images)

The Premier of the Western Cape Alan Winde joins Mike to explain the motivation for the delegation's current visit to the USA to meet senior officials to save the African Growth and Opportunity Act.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Long-Term Services and Supports Trust Act, known as WA Cares, requires Washington employers to collect premiums from their employees starting July 1. Resources to get started collecting and reporting premiums are available on the website, and complimentary sessions with industry experts are offered through the Advisory Network. In light of the high risk for meal and rest period violations class action lawsuits, the Washington Hospitality Association held a members-only webinar with employment lawyers, and a recording is available on the members-only site. Additionally, the Association has a packed calendar of webinars in May, including a market update presentation by IBA and a discussion on labor management by Hospitality Profit's Rick Braa, as well as multiple L&I webinars on the Equal Pay and Opportunity Act and Overtime Rules. For more information, go to: https://wahospitality.org/Subscribe to Washington Hospitality Industry Podcast on Soundwise

Maria Cantu from the Kentucky Career Center shares details about the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act having up to $6000 for qualified individuals training.

Mike Essen interviews Tabitha Walter, Executive Director of Eagle Forum. Tabitha will be on a Campaign Show to fight Pro-Marijuana Laws. From The Safe Banking Act to The HOPE Act and The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act. An excellent campaign show.   The Mike Essen Show

This week's discussion focuses on the long-awaited Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act.

This week Joe is joined by Army Veteran, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Facet Wealth, Patrick McKenna. Patrick served as an officer in the Signal Corps and actively planned for his transition from Active Duty attending graduate school before entering the civilian workforce. He shares his entrepreneurial journey; starting in finance on Wall Street to working at a tech startup before launching his own businesses. Patrick discusses what entrepreneurs need to know before they get started and the unique soft skills that Veterans can leverage. He explains the inspiration behind and mission of Facet Wealth and how it is different from other financial planning services on the market. Learn more about Facet Wealth here.   About Our Guest  Patrick McKenna is an experienced entrepreneur and angel investor, having generated more than $1B in exits over his career. Prior to Co-Founding Facet Wealth, he founded HighRidge Venture Partners to invest in companies based outside Silicon Valley, and he was a co-founder and an executive at technology companies including NexRep, Keniks, and LiveOps. Patrick is widely recognized as an expert in technology-enabled services and the future of work. Before entering the tech world, Patrick worked in M&A at Morgan Stanley and served four years as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. In addition, he founded One America Works to encourage growing tech companies to open offices in cities across the United States and launched Catalyst Opportunity Funds to leverage the Invest in Opportunity Act to bring more investment to overlooked communities across America. Join the conversation on Facebook! Check out Veteran on the Move on Facebook to connect with our guests and other listeners. A place where you can network with other like-minded veterans who are transitioning to entrepreneurship and get updates on people, programs and resources to help you in YOUR transition to entrepreneurship.     About Our Sponsors Sabio If you're considering a job in software engineering, I highly recommend checking out Sabio. Sabio is a Coding Boot Camp and Developer Community that's been training veterans since 2013 and can help you transition to a full-time career in tech within a few months! Sabio is not your average bootcamp—in just 17 weeks, you'll not only learn to code, but gain real-life experience and graduate ready to start a real, high-paying tech job Visit sabio.la/onthemove to learn how you can use your VA benefits to enroll.   Navy Federal Credit Union  Becoming a member at Navy Federal Credit Union lets you experience more. From everyday commutes to your next big vacation, the Flagship credit card earns you 3X the points on travel, so you can get rewarded for wherever you're headed next. Plus, this premium travel card has a low annual fee of $49 and 2X the points on all purchases outside of travel; meaning, the rewards don't have to end even when the vacation does. The Flagship credit card also comes with up to $100 in credits toward TSA Precheck or Global Entry and reimbursement on an annual Amazon Prime membership.  Learn how you can earn up to 3X points on travel and more with the Flagship credit card at navyfederal.org. At Navy Federal, our members are the mission.     Want to be our next guest? Send us an email at interview@veteranonthemove.com.  Did you love this episode? Leave us a 5-star rating and review!  Download Joe Crane's Top 7 Paths to Freedom or get it on your mobile device. Text VETERAN to 38470. Veteran On the Move podcast has published over 445 episodes. Our listeners have the opportunity to hear in-depth interviews conducted by host Joe Crane. The podcast features people, programs, and resources to assist veterans in their transition to entrepreneurship.  As a result, Veteran On the Move has over 7,000,000 verified downloads through Stitcher Radio, SoundCloud, iTunes and RSS Feed Syndication making it one of the most popular Military Entrepreneur Shows on...

Ice-T announces dispensary in Jersey City, Brittney Griner sentenced to 9 years in Russian prison, Nashville's Buds & Brews and the Democrats introduce The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act!Weeding Out The Stoned is The Game Show of Sobriety Tests. Check out the live show to win sweet prizes!UPCOMING LIVE SHOWS:http://www.weedingoutthestoned.com/buy-ticketsFollow Alex Grubard:http://www.instagram.com/alexgrubardWeeding Out The Stoned is The Game Show of Sobriety Tests. A pack of comics enter. All of them are stoned but one. Can you figure out who the sober Narc is amongst all these stoners!Follow Weeding Out The Stoned:http://www.instagram.com/weedingoutthestonedhttp://www.weedingoutthestoned.comhttp://www.twitter.com/weedingstonedhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHl2ZKQzh6_IkjSqw11qyOwhttps://www.bandsintown.com/a/15073677-weeding-out-the-stonedSupport the show

It's a #heatwave, and cannabis is on fire!

In this episode: The total rundown on the Cannabis Administration Opportunity Act and how to beat the heat with weed! Follow us here:https://linktr.ee/leafly.official Links:  The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act is finally here. Here's what it would do [https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/the-cannabis-administration-and-opportunity-act-finally-debuts-in-congress-heres-what-it-would-do] Music: English and Guitar by Hollow Bodies Hollow Bodies bandcamp [https://hellohollowbodies.bandcamp.com/] Write to us at therollup@leafly.com

After thirty plus years in the industry, Chris Boucher knows a thing or two about hemp. These days he's the CEO of Farmtiva, a California-based hemp company that specializes in consulting, seed sales, and a hemp juice powder called JuiceTiva, but his journey with hemp started long before the Farm Bill created the pathway for the modern hemp industry. He started a business in 1990 called the Hempstead Co. that made hemp wallets, hats, bags and such. “Back then the only place you could get hemp was either in China, Hungary, Romania or Poland. And so I went over to China in '92, and we sourced the hemp there,” he said during this week's episode. Boucher wanted to source his hemp in the U.S., and so in 1994 he secured permission from the USDA and became the first person to grow hemp in the U.S. in decades. But before the crop was harvested, local narcotics agents in California destroyed it by plowing it under, and the dream of U.S.-grown hemp had to wait. Along the way he also co-founded the Hemp Industries Association, wrote an influential legal opinion about CBD, and imported the first CBD oil into the U.S. He traces his career in hemp back to a chance encounter in 1990 when he was asked to sign a petition to legalize hemp by a man who had just published a book that explained the history and potential of hemp. That man was Jack Herer, author of the seminal hemp book “The Emperor Wears No Clothes.” The two became lifelong friends. As the current director of the California Hemp Growers Guild, an advocacy group for hemp farmers, Boucher sees first hand the detrimental effect recent state legislation is having on California's hemp farmers. He said it's a big win for the marijuana industry and a big loss for the hemp industry. Hemp now falls under the jurisdiction of the California Bureau of Cannabis Control instead of the California Department of Agriculture. Boucher said that the agency's fee structure and regulations make it nearly impossible for hemp farmers to compete, and many have stopped growing hemp altogether. “We've lost 90% of hemp farmers in California. We went from 800 farmers down to 120,” he said. He said these new regulations will also make it very expensive for any out-of-state hemp companies wishing to do business in California. Also in this episode, host Eric Hurlock reads a summary of the new definition of hemp set forth in the recently introduced Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, Chuck Schumer's bill to federally legalize cannabis. All this and more. Be sure to check out all of these links. Farmtiva https://www.farmtiva.com/ JuiceTiva https://www.farmtiva.com/juicetiva-hemp-juice-powder Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act Summary https://www.democrats.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/caoa_overview_summary1.pdf Thanks to our generous sponsors IND HEMP https://indhemp.com/ Mpactful Ventures https://www.mpactfulventures.org/ Music by Tin Bird Shadow https://tinbirdshadow.bandcamp.com/releases For news nuggets links and more information, go to LancasterFarming.com

Witney Schneidman, a Brookings Africa Growth Initiative nonresident fellow, assesses U.S.-Africa relations under the Biden administration, discusses how the next version of the African Growth and Opportunity Act might better support U.S.-Africa trade, and offers recommendations for enhancing U.S. trade and investment in the region. Show notes and transcript: https://brook.gs/3wGRqgh  Foresight Africa podcast is part of the Brookings Podcast Network. Subscribe and listen on Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Send feedback email to podcasts@brookings.edu, and follow and tweet at @policypodcasts on Twitter.

Welcome to the 50th episode of the High Rise! So many great conversations with so many fascinating guests already, we're excited to keep it going to at least 500! And to help mark the occasion, we have yet another fascinating guest who will be joining Cy and Emily for episode 50 — Scott Kenyon CEO of Wurk.This conversation is centered around the cannabis workforce and the various aspects of what it means to be employed in an entire industry made up of startup companies. Our hosts delve into California's big push to help navigate regulatory landscape by launching their CannaConnect Compliance Hub. Next, they chat about market expansion with the state of New Jersey gearing up to launch in a matter of weeks. Continuing on with the topic of employment in the cannabis category, our hosts get into some recent news about Amazon helping clear the way for cannabis legalization, by backing the MORE Act, plus the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, and States Reform Act — great things ahead for a new workforce in a new industry!We hope you get a lot out of this High Rise conversation, and thank you for staying with us all the way to episode 50! Please remember to rate and subscribe to our podcasts and share with everyone you know and love.https://www.linkedin.com/in/stkenyon/https://www.enjoywurk.comhttps://www.aboutamazon.com/news/policy-news-views/amazon-is-supporting-the-effort-to-reform-the-nations-cannabis-policy

A civic crisis rooted in racial inequity. A chance visit to an Atlanta retail attraction. A commercial developer persuaded to step outside his own comfort zone. Three events converged in 2015 that put in motion a $230 million redevelopment in St. Louis's urban core—an effort that launched like a cannonball from Steve Smith's imagination but came within a hair's breadth of dying.In this episode of On Principle, we look at the moment when inspiration launches a transformative project. What prompted the inspiration? What were the considerations? In what ways did reality temper the inspiration? How far did the reality stray from the inspiration itself? And what are the takeaways for listeners?The story of how The City Foundry in St. Louis came to be includes a wake-up call to developers, several strokes of spectacularly timed luck and a clandestine, cellphone-lit tour of an abandoned factory. The 15-acre retail, residential and dining project—built in and around a transformed automotive brake-parts factory—began when Smith visited a similar venue in Atlanta as his son graduated from Georgia Tech in May 2015.“My son took us to a foundry there, a food hall,” said Smith, CEO of real estate development firm the Lawrence Group. “It was exuding energy. Dynamism. I'm sitting there thinking, ‘This is what St. Louis needs.' I can tell you exactly what I was thinking and where I was sitting at the time.”And that was the pivotal moment.Seven days after graduation, Smith and his son visited an abandoned industrial site they knew was for sale in St. Louis' midtown. Rebuffed by a guard when they asked to take a look, the pair snuck around the back of the building, jumped a fence and toured the site by the light of their cellphone flashlights. Within a few months, the project had its first seed funding and Smith was on his way to buying the property. The $6.4 million purchase closed in December 2015.Along the way, Smith contended with:Internal company debates over assuming the environmental liability for a brownfield factory that had been idle since 2007.Civic debates over applications for tax incentives to redevelop the property.A high burn rate on capital and slow-to-close leasing commitments threatened to scuttle the entire project. This was so serious in February 2019 that Smith and his firm were seriously looking at the cost of closing down the project.Then luck kicked in.First, the federal Investing in Opportunity Act had passed in December 2017, creating a new tax incentive mechanism to pump development dollars into underserved and impoverished communities. That helped Smith raise $50 million in June 2019, later prompting Forbes to name his project among the nation's top 20 most transformative Opportunity Zone projects.Then, an angel investor facilitated a $15 million “patient capital investment”—a “gift from heaven,” Smith said—that allowed project construction to commence. “It was a civic leader stepping up to do something very nontraditional, who made a lot of other civic leaders feel this was an important project to make happen,” he said.Related LinksThe Foundry's back story as told by the Lawrence GroupThe Lawrence Group websiteNews about the opportunity zone funding Steve Smith secured for the projectKrog Street Market in AtlantaThe City Foundry in St. LouisFrom the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: “Midtown project to redevelop Federal-Mogul site should get city help, but how much remains the question”CreditsThis podcast is a production of Washington University in St. Louis's Olin Business School. Contributors include:Katie Wools, Cathy Myrick and Judy Milanovits, creative assistanceJill Young Miller, fact checking and creative assistanceHayden Molinarolo, original music and sound designMike Martin Media, editingSophia Passantino, social mediaLexie O'Brien and Erik Buschardt, website supportMark P. Taylor, strategic supportPaula Crews, creative vision and strategic supportSpecial thanks to Ray Irving and his team at WashU Olin's Center for Digital Education, including our audio engineer, Austin Alred.

We say this often, but this week we have a very special episode of the High-Rise. Our hosts Cy and Emily along with a returning guest host — the founder of One Plant, recovering lawyer, and cannabis insider Brady Cobb.The conversation stays focused on a single topic this week which is the States Reform Act. What does this mean for the cannabis industry? In essence this legislation would federally decriminalize cannabis and fully defer to state powers over prohibition and commercial regulation. The bill was written by Nancy Mace a Republican Representative from South Carolina. The framework for this bill differs from the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act written by Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer in a few distinct ways but also stays true to the spirit behind Schumer's bill as well. We let Brady take the floor and give us a bit of an inside scoop on all the details around this new legislation and how this could finally be what brings the US cannabis industry out of prohibition forever.As always we hope you enjoy this week's discussion, please do leave us a review and subscribe for all future High-Rise episodes wherever you stream your podcasts!https://twitter.com/BCobblawhttps://oneplant.ushttps://www.leafly.com/news/politics/states-reform-act-republican-marijuana-legalization-bill-analysishttps://mjbizdaily.com/south-carolina-republican-reveals-marijuana-legalization-bill-shell-introduce-in-congress/

If someone had suggested just five years ago that the day would soon come when the majority leader of the U.S. Senate would co-sponsor a comprehensive bill to legalize marijuana federally, most people would have asked what that person was smoking. But that day has come, with New York's Senator Chuck Schumer joining with New Jersey Senator Cory Booker and Oregon Senator Ron Wyden in circulating a draft Cannabis Administration & Opportunity Act they say will soon be introduced.Senator Schumer took fifteen minutes this past Sunday morning to address my questions: Why is he so personally involved in this issue given everything else on his plate? What about first resolving the critical issue, on which most members of Congress already agree, of passing the Safe Banking Act to allow marijuana businesses to work with banks just like all other businesses do? How does he deal with the opposition from not just most Republicans but also a few of his Democratic colleagues as well as President Biden? Will the Senate take the next step on reforming drug sentencing laws? And, by the way, has the Senator ever smoked marijuana?Listen to this episode and let me know what you think. Our number is 1-833-779-2460. Our email is psychoactive@protozoa.com. Or tweet at me, @ethannadelmann. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Because it's Friday. 02:43 min - The Mindful Minute 05:48 min – The Weather Report 19:28 min - The Culture Report 34:48 min - The Traffic Report 52:35 min - Leafly Strains of the week Former NFL players and lifelong friends Jeff Shugarts and Mike Adams interview crypto, cannabis, and cultural insiders to give you the scoop on what to "stache" and what to "pass". Culture Report: This week we reflect on the new NCAA NIL deal and chat about what the future could look like for student athletes. We hear from Mike about a new yoga project he is participating in at a youth correctional center in Tampa, FL and we talk about our relationships with cannabis and how it has helped us physically and mentally. Weather Report: This week we hear from none other than our fearless leader, Mr. Shugarts. He catches us up on the 'Troll Fest' brewing between Ethereum Co-Founder & Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, the Poly Network hack, the new Crypto For Congress Campaign, and a product review of the Fold Bitcoin Reward App & Fold Bitcoin Rewards Visa Debit Card. Cannabis Report:  This week https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=4f34bf6545&e=d783a2f655 (The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act) has officially been brought to the floor in the senate! We continue our discussions about the big 4 US American pot stocks, and the up in smoke battle lines being drawn between the US & Canada. New episodes drop every Friday. Follow us on Instagram @stacheitorpassit. Get more crypto, cannabis, and culture, https://www.stacheitorpassit.com/ (HERE!) Referral links: https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=a244443ab4&e=d783a2f655 (Voyager Digital, up to 10% APR interest payments. ) Sign up and earn $25 in Bitcoin after investing $100. You start wealth building journey up 25%! https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=716b19448d&e=d783a2f655 (Fold Visa Bitcoin Reward Debit Card)  It is just like a normal debit card, EXCEPT each time you use it you EARN BITCOIN rewards for your purchases. So, as the price of Bitcoin goes up overtime things will pay for themselves one day. I don't know about you but I have never been paid by my current bank. https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=54beee7c80&e=d783a2f655 (Binance.US, home of the BNB token.)  Earn crypto rewards on the largest exchange in the world. Binance is home of the BNB token. https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=1f51083ee3&e=d783a2f655 (Strike, buy and send Bitcoin on the Lightning Network ) Sign up and earn $5 https://stacheitorpassit.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7932ba9113916fb0417c85368&id=9e39f5809f&e=d783a2f655 (CashApp, replace your bank?)  Buy & send Bitcoin, buy stocks, and learn about investing. Earn Bitcoin rewards! I earn $30 of FREE Bitcoin per month going out to dinner and buying coffee. You can earn up to $7.50 of FREE bitcoin with the CashApp Card 10% Bitcoin Boost once a week. Cannabis Industry news: https://mjbizdaily.com/husband-of-marijuana-mso-trulieve-ceo-faces-trial-on-bribery-charges/ (Husband of marijuana MSO Trulieve CEO faces trial on bribery charges) https://mjbizdaily.com/trulieve-board-reiterates-support-of-marijuana-ceo-amid-husbands-conviction/ (Trulieve reiterates support of marijuana CEO amid husband's conviction) https://finance.yahoo.com/news/cannabis-covid-connection-know-dont-115134189.html (The Cannabis-COVID Connection: What We Know And What We Don't Know) https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/the-more-act-calls-for-sweeping-changes-in-federal-cannabis-law (The MORE Act Calls for Sweeping Changes in Federal Cannabis Law)...

Episode Breakdown 02:25 min - The Mindful Minute 07:34 min – The Culture Report 32:07 min - The Weather Report 1:18:36 min - The Traffic Report Former NFL players and lifelong friends Jeff Shugarts and Mike Adams interview crypto, cannabis, and cultural insiders to give you the scoop on what to "stache" and what to "pass". Culture Report: This week we sit down with designer, photographer, and entrepreneur, https://ransom.supply/ (Ryan Ransom). We hear his inspirational story about leaning in on what feels good, putting yourself out there for the benefit of others, and following your dreams.  Weather Report: This week we meet a NEW Weather Report contributor and https://twitter.com/marcusmoles (Bitcoin Veteran), https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSbV8hBErxl0HpjLzvGwD8Q (YouTuber), https://open.spotify.com/show/6qxYpp7PvPY2mqAoYE6LyR?si=93FouZE3R6mnleNuHvE5IQ&dl_branch=1 (Podcaster), and educator, https://marcusmoles.com/ (Marcus Moles)! Marcus tells us his bitcoin story and dives into the new Infrastructure Bill that just passed in the Senate and how bitcoin/crypto regulations got wrapped into it. He also starts us down the path of bitcoin security explaining the different levels and measures you can take.  Cannabis Report:  We follow up on https://www.democrats.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/CAOA%20Detailed%20Summary%20-.pdf (The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act) and how you can take action to let your voice be heard. We hear the earnings out this week on Green Thumb and Trulieve. Dr. B shares with us a new Stache It pick for the week, and we chat about a few positive stories from this week.  New episodes drop every Friday. Follow us on Instagram @stacheitorpassit. Get more crypto, cannabis, and culture at https://www.stacheitorpassit.com/ (https://www.stacheitorpassit.com/.) Referral links: https://voyager.onelink.me/WNly/referral?af_sub5=14DA9B (Voyager Digital, up to 10% APR interest payments. ) Sign up and earn $25 in Bitcoin after investing $100. Basically you start up 25%! https://accounts.binance.us/en/register?ref=53188124 (Binance.US, home of the BNB token.) Earn crypto rewards on the largest exchange in the world. https://invite.strike.me/6PVL00 (Strike, buy and send Bitcoin on the Lightning Network ) Sign up and earn $5 https://cash.app/app/ZGNTDTZ (CashApp, replace your bank?) Buy Bitcoin, stocks, and learn about investing. Earn Bitcoin rewards! I earn $30 of Bitcoin in the month of July. https://use.foldapp.com/r/PCCV9WLE (Fold Visa Bitcoin Reward Debit Card) It is just like a normal debit card, except each time you use it you earn bitcoin rewards for your purchases. So, as the price of Bitcoin goes up overtime hopefully things will pay for themselves one day. I don't know about you but I have never been paid by my current bank. Bitcoin & Crypto in the news: https://thehill.com/policy/technology/567563-eshoo-urges-pelosi-to-amend-infrastructure-bills-problematic-crypto (Eshoo urges Pelosi to amend infrastructure bill's 'problematic' crypto regulation language) https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/11/crypto-lawmakers-fought-over-the-infrastructure-bill-heres-whats-next.html (Lawmakers fought over crypto's place in the infrastructure bill. Here's what's next for the industry) https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/11/fintech-earnings-bonanza-as-coinbase-and-upstart-grow-sales-11-fold.html (Fintech just saw an earnings bonanza, as Coinbase and Upstart report over 11-fold revenue growth) https://www.coindesk.com/pnc-bank-is-planning-a-crypto-offering-with-coinbase (PNC Bank Planning Crypto Offering With Coinbase) https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/12/poly-network-hacker-behind-600-million-crypto-heist-did-it-for-fun.html (Suspected hacker behind $600 million Poly Network crypto heist did it ‘for fun') Strains of the week: https://www.leafly.com/strains/biscotti (Biscotti) New from The Traffic Report:...