Power and Roads for Africa: What the United States Can Do

Publication Date: August 2008

Publisher: Center for Global Development

Author(s): Vijaya Ramachandran

Research Area: Economics

Keywords: Presidential transition; Infrastructure; Economic Development

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States Africa

Abstract:

This White House and the World Brief presents the key facts and recommendations drawn from Chapter Three of The White House and the World: A Global Development Agenda for the Next U.S. President.

Why should the United States care about economic growth in Africa? Because it is the right thing to do and the smart thing to do. Helping to spur economic growth in Africa promotes our values, enhances our security, and helps create economic and political opportunities for the people of the continent. Public interest in Africa is higher than ever--witness consumer movements such as Product Red--and bipartisan political support recently renewed funding for the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Several new opportunities now exist for U.S. firms to compete and benefit from a win-win partnership with the region.