What is the past, present, and future of U.S. policy towards sub-Saharan Africa? Judd Devermont, Director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), and Nicole Wilett, Chief of Staff at the Open Society Foundations, sit down with diplomats, journalists, civil society activists, and academics to discuss policy recommendations for the Biden Administration. In 15 minutes or less, these episodes deliver the goods on U.S. relations with African countries, as well as share the best of African music, food, dance, film, and travel.
eSwatini
Judd and Nicole are joined by Cebelihle Mbuyisa for a special episode on eSwatini, discussing the recent protests and brutal government crackdown, and recommending that the U.S. government amplify the voices of those fighting for change. Cebelihle, a journalist covering pro-democracy protests, recounts his experiences as a victim of police brutality and highlights the experiences of fellow citizens in this critical moment.
Lesotho
Judd and Nicole are joined by Silence Charumbira (Lesotho Times and Sunday Express) to discuss opportunities for U.S. engagement with Lesotho, including leveraging the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). They also point to cooperation in the health sector and admire Lesotho’s captivating poetry scene.
Malawi
Judd and Nicole are joined by Johnnie Carson (U.S. Institute of Peace) to discuss Malawi’s democracy, recommending a rebuilding of U.S-Malawi relationships, invitations to the Summit for Democracy, and recognition of the Malawian Supreme Court. Plus, why U.S. diplomats should dance.
Mozambique
Judd and Nicole are joined by Zenaida Machado (Human Rights Watch) to discuss U.S. policy towards Mozambique on issues ranging from counterterrorism to climate change mitigation and adaptation, recommending holistic approaches to addressing developmental issues and mouthwatering mukapata and prawn dishes.
Namibia
Judd and Nicole are joined by Shinovene Immanuel (The Namibian) to discuss the cordial but neglected relations of the U.S. and Namibia, recommending that the U.S. launch creative pilot projects in Namibia, approach Namibia as an interlocutor in the region, and invest in education. Plus, why Namibians didn’t take it too seriously when President Trump call their country “Nambia.”.
South Africa
Judd and Nicole are joined by Michelle Gavin (Council on Foreign Relations) to discuss partnership and humility in U.S. policy toward South Africa, recommending personal relationships between the two nations and imagining a dinner party with South African luminaries
Zambia
Judd and Nicole are joined by O’Brien Kaaba (University of Zambia) to discuss U.S. historical support for democracy, highlighting missed opportunities for U.S. involvement in protecting the rights of Zambian citizens. They recommend engagement with Zambia’s civil society ahead of elections in August 2021 and share an appreciation of Zamrock music.
Zimbabwe
Judd and Nicole are joined by Johnnie Carson (U.S. Institute of Peace) to discuss Zimbabwe’s leadership as a challenge to effective U.S-Zimbabwe partnership, recommending strengthened support for Zimbabwe’s civil society, reforms in the security sector, cooperation with SADC neighbors, and getaways to Troutbeck, and Masvingo.