Into Africa (CSIS | Center for Strategic and International Studies)

Although data is a powerful tool in decision-making, data collection and production in Africa have proven to miss the mark in pattern prediction. Afrobarometer is a Pan- African, non-partisan, non-profit research network with headquarters in Ghana that conducts public attitude surveys on democracy, governance, the economy, and society in Africa. Dr. Joseph Asunka, the CEO of Afrobarometer, speaks with Mvemba about the challenges in data collection in Africa as well as the ways Afrobarometer is building data collection methodologies for various contexts in Africa.

On November 17th, 2023, President George Weah gracefully conceded to President-elect Joseph Boakai, who secured victory with a narrow margin of just 1.28% in votes. The electoral process was not only marked by a closely contested run-off but also had a first run of twenty candidates. This concession underscores Liberia's positive democratic trajectory and political stability. Furthermore, President Weah upheld the peaceful transition precedent set by his predecessor, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female president.  To delve into the voting trends shaping Liberia's political landscape, Mvemba is joined by Charles Lawrence, Liberian Political Analyst. Together, they discuss the significance of this election, shedding light on the precedent it sets for peaceful and democratic transitions in the country.  

The long-awaited results of the United States presidential election will shape the future of American democracy and U.S.-Africa policy for years to come. Are there lessons from sub-Saharan Africa that the U.S. should consider as it reflects on its electoral process? Udo Jude Ilo (Open Society Initiative for West Africa), Maria Sarungi Tsehai (#ChangeTanzania), and Jason Stearns (Congo Research Group) join Judd Devermont to discuss the elections, the future of Nigeria's #EndSARS movement, DRC's tumultuous leadership struggle, and the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region.  Background Materials: Race and Diplomacy: How does BLM resonate in Africa? – CSIS Africa Reacts to the U.S. Presidential Election – CSIS Nigeria: Learning from #EndSARS - A New U.S. Policy Toward Nigeria – Judd Devermont and Matthew T. Page A New Direction for U.S. Foreign Policy in Africa – Jason Stearns and Zachariah Mampilly A New U.S. Policy Framework for the African Century – Judd Devermont

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

Mvemba is joined by David McNair, Executive Director for Global Policy at The ONE Campaign, W. Gyude Moore, Senior Policy Fellow at the Center for Global Development, and Savior Mwambwa, Senior Advisor at Open Society Foundations to discuss the state of indebtedness in Africa. They review the reasons why some African countries are defaulting on debt repayment and why others have chosen to prioritize debt servicing over the provision of public goods. The discussion highlights the systemic injustice of the excessive cost of debt whereby African countries pay more than their rich counterparts. They propose the restructuring of the international financial system to reduce the cost of borrowing and help mitigate the economic fragility that affects developing nations. They encourage African countries to speak in one voice to increase their leverage as rule-makers.

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

President Biden's upcoming Summit for Democracy is one of the administration's flagship efforts aiming to renew its commitment to democracy at home and abroad. What are the key themes of the Summit and how do we ensure that African voices are not treated as sideshows? Judd Devermont sits down with Frances Brown (Carnegie Endowment for International Peace), Moussa Kondo (Accountability Lab), and Thandekile Moyo (Writer) to share recommendations for impactful deliverables. Other topics include Chad's military takeover following the death of President Idriss Déby and ZANU-PF's problematic amendments to Zimbabwe's constitution.  Background Readings:  Who will defend and protect Zimbabwe’s human rights defenders? – Thandekile Moyo  The Global Expansion of AI Surveillance – Steven Feldstein   America Needs a Democracy Summit More Than Ever – Frances Z. Brown et. al. Africa and the Biden Administration’s Summit for Democracy – Judd Devermont 

How have African legislatures evolved and how do they shape political competition across the continent? Ken Opalo (Georgetown University), Janette Yarwood (U.S. House of Representatives), and Tyler Beckelman (U.S. Institute of Peace) sat down with Judd Devermont to explore new approaches to strengthening legislative institutions. Guests also weigh in on the agenda behind Kenya’s Building Bridges Initiative and the ongoing Anglophone conflict in Cameroon. Background Reading: Legislative Development in Africa: Politics and Postcolonial Legacies by Ken Opalo Cameroon Must Make Concessions to End the Anglophone Crisis by Ken Opalo and Claire Hazbun Congressional Letter to His Excellency Paul Biya What to Watch in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2020

Ken Opalo (Georgetown) joins Mvemba to discuss the strength of public institutions across Africa. How do parliaments, courts, executive offices, and militaries impact the quality of governance? Ken and Mvemba focus on Malawi, Kenya, and Benin with implications for the rest of the region. Plus, Ken’s thoughts on localization of development funding and how U.S. policymakers should think different around enabling environments when it comes to foreign direct investment.

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

Mvemba is joined by African investor and philanthropist Tony Elumelu to discuss the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s work in empowering youth entrepreneurs across the continent. They talk about the philosophy of Africapitalism, how African governments can build robust enabling environments, and the importance of eradicating dependency syndrome.

Mvemba is joined by Amaka Anku, Practice Head for Africa at the Eurasia Group. They offer their initial reactions to Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory, discuss the allegations of voter irregularities, and reflect on one of Nigeria's most competitive and consequential elections since the end of military rule in 1999.   This episode was recorded on March 02, 2023.

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

Mvemba is joined by Doussouba Konaté, Country Director and Global Program Manager for Accountability Lab Mali, an organization dedicated to shifting societal norms by working with young people to foster new ideas centered around government accountability, transparency, and openness. They discuss the landscape of life in Mali today, touching on several key people, political and policy factors for consideration.

China's footprint in Africa extends beyond infrastructure projects and financing. How significant are the relationships spun between Chinese elites and their African counterparts? In our eighth episode with African Arguments, Shinovene Immanuel (The Namibian), Lina Benabdallah (CSIS), and John Culver (Former National Intelligence Officer) join host Judd Devermont for a conversation on Chinese engagement with Africans. Guests also discuss Namibia's fishrot corruption scandal and politics in Algeria.   Background Readings: Why Mali Needs a New Peace Deal - Judd Devermont and Marielle Harris Under the Radar: Summer Edition - Judd Devermont and Ryan Cummings The Spoils of the Fishrot (Part 1) - Shinovene Immanuel and Tutaleni Pinehas Swapo's 'golden children' - Shinovene Immanuel Shaping the Future of Power - Lina Benabdallah   China loans Africa much less than you think - Lina Benabdallah (African Arguments)

Can humor be leveraged to spark political change? Bruce Wharton (former U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe), James Wan (African Arguments), and Nkechi Nwabudike (The Other News) join host Judd Devermont to discuss the role of satire in African media, politics, and diplomacy. Guests also discuss the government of Zimbabwe’s comments on Covid-19 and the challenge of holding free and fair elections during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is our sixth episode in partnership with African Arguments. Background Reading: Surviving COVID-19: Fragility, Resilience and Inequality in Zimbabwe - African Arguments Pandemic at the Polls - Judd Devermont Satire: BP praised for ambition to destroy Africa but potentially a bit slower - James Wan Writing about “that kind of country” in a time of coronavirus - Jess Auerbach 

This week, Mvemba is joined by Mohammed Abdiker, Regional Director for East Africa and the Horn of Africa at the International Organization for Migration. The two delve into migration trends in countries across the Horn, and the economic, political, and environmental factors that continue to exacerbate forced displacement in the region. They unpack various initiatives and conferences aimed at addressing migration trends, both regional and international, and highlight their pitfalls and opportunities.

Disinformation operations in Africa are hidden in discretely coordinated social media campaigns. How can activists across the globe detect fake news and tackle these issues more coherently? In our 11th episode in partnership with African Arguments, Judd Devermont is joined by Elsie Eyakuze (The Mikocheni Report), Shelby Grossman (Stanford Internet Observatory), and Rose Jackson (Atlantic Council) to discuss the importance of people-to-people engagement in responding to disinformation. Guests also explore Covid-19 lockdowns in Nigeria and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu's deviation from her predecessor's policies.     Background Readings:  Ethiopian diaspora groups organize click-to-tweet Tigray campaigns amid information scarcity – Tessa Knight  Prominent Ugandan news websites implicated in government-aligned social media campaign – Tessa Knight and Alyssa Kann  The Politics of Order in Informal Markets: How the State Shapes Private Governance – Shelby Grossman  Slanted Narratives, Social Media, and Foreign Influence in Libya – Shelby Grossman et. al. Blurring the lines of media authenticity: Prigozhin-linked group funding Libyan broadcast media – Shelby Grossman et. al. Atlantic Council Digital Forensic Research Lab Newsletter 

Most migrants stay in Africa, settling in a neighboring country rather than traveling to Europe. How is this shaping demographic and urbanization trends in Africa? Host Judd Devermont is joined by Abdi Nor Iftin (Author), Erol Yayboke (CSIS), and Beza Tesfaye (Mercy Corps) to discuss Abdi’s book ‘Call Me American: A Memoir.’ Also on this episode; guests discuss South Sudan’s fragile peace deal and humanitarian challenges, plus the threat of Al Shabaab in Somalia.   Background Reading Call Me American: A Memoir by Abdi Nor Iftin A Short Window to Resuscitate South Sudan’s Ailing Peace Deal by Crisis Group Trends in Forced Migration Report by Erol Yayboke Critical Choices Report by Mercy Corps

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

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

America spends more money on Halloween candy than on UN peacekeeping operations each year. What is the true value of these missions and how much in financial contributions are required to earn a seat at the table? Judd Devermont sits down with Paul-Simon Handy (Institute for Security Studies), Kate Almquist Knopf (Africa Center for Strategic Studies), and Chandrima Das (Better World Campaign) to discuss the state of peacekeeping in Africa. Guests also explore democracy and protests in Senegal and the UN’s decision to close its peacekeeping mission in Darfur. Background Reading: Walking a Tightrope: The Transition from UNAMID to UNITAMS in Sudan - Daniel Forti Five reasons why America needs to pay its peacekeeping bill - Hardin Lang and Victoria Holt

Introducing 49, CSIS Africa Program's newest podcast, about the past, present, and future of U.S. policy toward sub-Saharan Africa. Hosts Judd Devermont, director of CSIS's Africa Program, and Nicole Wilett, Chief of Staff at the Open Society Foundations, discuss past U.S. successes and failures; offer policy recommendations for the Biden Administration; and share the best of the region's music, movies, food, and culture. One country at a time. The first episodes drop on Thursday, 15 July 2021.

More than 80% of African countries have experienced coups since the 1950s. The occurrence of coups can be seen as a reaction to poor governance that is unresponsive to the needs of the people. Regional and international responses to this “unconstitutional” seizure of power belittles and condescends coup leaders hence ostracizing and condemning already fragile nations without addressing the drivers of coups. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s recent coups culminated with harsh sanctions from the regional bloc Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). As a result, the three nations formed a mutual defense pact known as Alliance of Sahel States (AES) on September 16, 2023, then withdrew from ECOWAS on January 28, 2024. ECOWAS is accused of being a hypocritical, distant, and elitist club for privileged diplomats whose hostility to these nations drove them out. What are the failures of ECOWAS? What lessons can ECOWAS and other regional blocs in Africa learn from this? Mvemba is joined by General Saleh Bala, retired Brigadier General from the Nigerian military and CEO White Ink Consult in Abuja, Nigeria, to discuss how to understand the withdrawal of AES and where ECOWAS falls short as a regional bloc.

Mvemba is joined by Mr. Nicolas Kazadi, Minister of Finance of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They discuss the Millennium Challenge Corporation, tackling corruption in the mining industry and the public sector, conflict in eastern DRC, and the auction of oil blocks and climate pledges.

Oil and diamonds typically hint towards a strong and robust economy. However, there is a noticeable disconnect between the mineral richness of Angola and the lack of Foreign Direct Investment. This incongruity lingers, although the nation’s civil war ended in 2002, because the reconciliation process has not addressed the core issues that caused the war. Foreign investor and local stakeholder engagement in post-conflict Angola remains timid. This leaves civil society and economic agents unsatisfied with the political and economic landscape of Angola.   Sergio Calundungo, Founder of Social Observatory of Angola, and Carlos Rosado de Carvalho, Journalist and Radio Host on MFM Radio, join Mvemba to discuss the “paradox of abundance” that Angola faces. 

Ghana, Africa’s shining black star, is grappling with a spectrum of challenges, from a faltering cedi to public discontent and security threats (both internally and across their borders). Mvemba is joined by Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar (Executive Director of West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism) for a diagnosis of Ghana’s politics, socioeconomic, and security landscape.

Central to the green revolution and technologies of the future, cobalt is found in some of the most conflict-stricken and unjust places on earth. What is the industry's current approach to responsible sourcing? Pamela Fierst-Walsh (U.S. Department of State), Mike Jobbins (Search for Common Ground), and Laurent Kasindi (Search for Common Ground) join Judd Devermont to highlight the benefits of a "do more good" over a "do no harm" approach to mineral mining. Guests also discuss recent attacks by the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) in the Central African Republic, as well as the upcoming Somali presidential elections. 

Mvemba is joined by Travis Adkins (U.S. African Development Foundation) for a conversation that spans a number of topics, including how Travis’ personal background has informed his professional trajectory; how Travis is taking the USADF from “the best kept secret” to one of the best foreign assistance agencies in the U.S. foreign policy toolkit; and how the USADF is directly funding African partners in 21 countries across the continent.

How does multilateral diplomacy transform during a global pandemic? In our season finale, Judd Devermont is joined by Alex Rondos (European Union), Sanusha Naidu (Institute for Global Dialogue), and Susan Page (University of Michigan) to discuss relationship building in a pre- and post-pandemic world. Guests also examine key developments in the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region, and expectations for the incoming Chair of the African Union, DRC's President Felix Tshisekedi. See you in the New Year for Into Africa's third season.  Background Reading: The Battle of Mekelle and Its Implications for Ethiopia - Judd Devermont  Rediscovering America: Why African Leader Tours Benefit U.S. Foreign Policy - Judd Devermont and Catherine Chiang

Mvemba is joined by Succès Masra, a leading Chadian opposition figure and the president of Les Transformateurs, the major opposition party in Chad. They discuss the deadly crackdown on protestors in October 2022, the state of the transition talks, the power of social media for organizing political movements, and Chad’s uncertain future.

Season 2 of Into Africa starts next week. Host Judd Devermont unveils some of the exciting new features in store for the next season. As our audience grows, so do our ideas and this will be reflected in the new topics, high-profile guests, and dynamic formats we plan to showcase. What to expect: Special interviews with prominent African leaders, live streamed in-studio shows, off-site live recordings, and more!

What role do musicians play in politics and advocacy, especially during a health crisis? For this special anniversary episode, East Africa’s biggest pop band, Sauti Sol share their thoughts on the music industry’s adaptation to the pandemic, the state of Kenya’s health system, and efforts to remain outspoken about police brutality. Lauren Blanchard (Congressional Research Service) and Damola Durosomo (CSIS) also join Judd Devermont to discuss the state of Sudan’s political transition two years in and Mali’s interim government’s National Transitional Council appointment of musician Salif Keita.  Background Reading   Rethinking Crisis Responses in the Sahel – Judd Devermont and Marielle Harris 

In Judd Devermont’s last episode as host, he is joined by Nnedi Okorafor (author), Patrick Gathara (journalist and cartoonist), and David Pilling (Financial Times) to discuss why and how the world should think differently about Africa.

Local LGBT rights advocacy groups continue to form across the African continent. How can international advocates and policymakers support sexual minorities without making them more vulnerable to attacks? Robbie Corey-Boulet (AFP), Neela Ghoshal (Human Rights Watch), and Yoseph Badwaza (Freedom House) join host Judd Devermont to discuss Robbie’s new book, Love Falls on Us. Guests also assess Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Nobel Peace Prize win and current threats to President Déby’s regime in Chad.   Background reading: Love Falls On Us: A Story of American Ideas and African LGBT Lives by Robbie Corey-Boulet. Briefing: Problems multiply in Déby’s Chad by Philip Kleinfield.  

France has complicated and often contentious relations with Francophone Africa. What is Françafrique and how has it evolved in recent years? Judd Devermont is joined by Rahmane Idrissa (African Studies Center in Leiden), Ambassador Jeff Hawkins (Former U.S. Ambassador to CAR), and Marielle Harris (CSIS) to discuss Françafrique's prominence in the region, Mali's worsening political crisis, and the Central African Republic’s upcoming presidential elections. Background Reading: Why Mali Needs a New Peace Deal - Judd Devermont and Marielle Harris

African creatives are using online literary magazines to publish their work directly to the web—resulting in more visibility, wider audiences, and richer conversation. Judd Devermont is joined by Abdi Latif Dahir (New York Times), Ambassador Makila James, and content creator Derick Matsengarwodzi to discuss this trend. Guests also cover the unilateral ceasefire in Tigray and pro-democracy protests in eSwatini. eSwatini with Cebelihle Mbuyisa - Cebelihle Mbuyisa, Judd Devermont, Nicole Wilett The New Magazines and Journals Shaping Africa’s Literary Scene – Abdi Latif Dahir “What this generation wants”: African authors publishing direct to the web - Derick Matsengarwodzi

Investigative journalism in Africa is entering a golden age. What trends underpin new access to and the dissemination of hidden information? Judd Devermont is joined by journalists Micah Reddy (amaBhungane), Peter Murimi (BBC Africa Eye), and Khadija Sharife (OCCRP) to discuss the realities facing media houses today. Other topics include the recent explosions in Equatorial Guinea and attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana.  Background Materials: I am Samuel Film - Directed by Peter Murimi   Congo-Brazzaville Strongman Buys Secret Weapons Haul from Azerbaijan - Khadija Sharife and Mark Anderson  BBC Africa Eye: The Baby Stealers - Peter Murimi, Joel Gunter and Tom Watson

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

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

This is the first episode of the Into Africa podcast with new host Mvemba Phezo Dizolele, who joined the CSIS Africa Program as director and senior fellow in December 2021. Mvemba speaks with author Howard French about his newest book, Born in Blackness. They discuss French’s research process, the outsized role that São Tomé played in the modernity of the Western world, and how plantations—or, more accurately, prison labor camps—were the most important economic innovation of the modern age prior to the industrial revolution. French also describes the West’s centuries-long attempt to strip Africans of their identity, and how Africans and the diaspora are working together along identity lines to win back their rightful place. Born in Blackness (W. W. Norton & Company)

Welcome to the third season of the Into Africa podcast. As always, Judd Devermont has an exciting lineup of high-profile guests from around the world joining in to unpack African politics and policy and dig deeper into new topics. There's a lot to look forward to this year: Chinese tech in Africa, vaccine diplomacy, conflict minerals, and the reparation of African artifacts. We also plan to host webinar shows with U.S. universities and African think tanks. See you next week for our special anniversary episode featuring Kenyan afro-pop band, Sauti Sol!

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

Mvemba is joined by Major General Todd Wasmund, Commanding General of the Southern Europe Taskforce Africa. They discuss the goals and objectives of the 11th ALFS, Africa's security landscape, and the evolving partnerships between the United States military and African armies. 

Judd Devermont is joined by Anouar Boukhars (African Center for Strategic Studies), Jason Warner (United States Military Academy in West Point), and Emily Estelle (American Enterprise Institute) to discuss the dangers of overemphasizing or underselling the ties between regional groups and global Jihadi networks. Guests also cover French President Macron's decision to draw down Operation Barkhane in the Sahel and the ADF's links to the Islamic state in Eastern Congo. Background Readings: A Course Correction for the Sahel Stabilisation Strategy - International Crisis Group The Islamic State in Africa: The Emergence, Evolution, and Future of the Next Jihadist Battlefront - Jason Warner, Ryan Cummings, and Ryan O'Farrell The Islamic State has ‘provinces’ in Africa. That doesn’t mean what you might think - Jason Warner Swapping jerseys: What changes when African extremists join the Islamic State? - Emily Estelle DRC: Designating the ADF - Jason Warner False Choices: U.S. Policy toward Coastal West Africa and the Sahel - Judd Devermont  Déby’s Dead. What’s Next for Chad and the Sahel? - Judd Devermont Rethinking Crisis Responses in the Sahel - Judd Devermont and Marielle Harris Centering Civilian Protection in Northern Mozambique - Emilia Columbo and Kelly Moss The Logic of Violence in Africa’s Extremist Insurgencies - Anouar Boukhars Keeping Terrorism at Bay in Mauritania - Anouar Boukhars

How do we separate fact from fiction? What is the best way to tackle misinformation about the virus? In our seventh episode with African Arguments, Ambassador Dawn Liberi (Former U.S. Ambassador to Burundi), Lee Mwiti (Africa Check), and Antonio Zappulla (Thomson Reuters Foundation) join host Judd Devermont to discuss the rapid spread of misinformation in Africa and the dangerous implications of government crackdowns on the press during the pandemic. Guests also examine Burundi’s turbulent transition following the death of President Nkurunziza and Kenya’s faltering economy. A note to our listeners: this episode was recorded on June 12th and some of the fast-moving developments in Burundi may not be reflected in the episode. Background Reading: Kenya Tops Angola as Sub-Saharan Africa’s No. 3 Economy - Bloomberg 3 African leaders: The smart step to fight the virus - CNN Egypt forces Guardian journalist to leave after coronavirus story - The Guardian FACTSHEET: Coronavirus and the Covid-19 outbreak - Africa Check What's Crap on WhatsApp? - Africa Check and others

Modeled after the Peace Corps, CorpsAfrica empowers African youth to work with local communities, emphasizing local ownership, collaboration, and participatory development. CorpsAfrica founder comments, “We’re creating a second Peace Corps, by and for Africans”. The organization aims to create a lasting impact by addressing community needs through a transformative and scalable model. Volunteers work for one year in high-poverty villages to direct scarce NGO resources to communities that need them. Operating in nine African countries, including Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, and Uganda, CorpsAfrica addresses two of Africa’s pressing challenges: creating opportunities for youth and helping rural communities overcome poverty.  Mvemba is joined by Liz Fanning, Founder and CEO of CorpsAfrica, to discuss the ideas, challenges, and successes of CorpsAfrica as well as the ways African youth are engaging with the organization. 

Mvemba is joined by Nathaniel Powell (@natkpowell) to discuss instability in the Sahel. In addition to covering some of the conflict’s history, Mvemba and Nathaniel talk about why France failed in Mali, how the United States can be a better partner to Sahelian countries, and how the Russia-Ukraine war is affecting the Sahel and Africa at large.   Why France Failed in Mali, by Nathaniel Powell (War on the Rocks) - https://warontherocks.com/2022/02/why-france-failed-in-mali/

How will the Covid-19 pandemic affect African governments’ ability to respond to violent extremism in the region? Will groups exploit the health, economic, and political crisis brought on by the pandemic? In this security-focused episode, host Judd Devermont is joined by Bulama Bukarti (Tony Blair Institute), Emilia Columbo (CSIS), and Will Brown (The Telegraph, CSIS) to discuss the violence in northern Mozambique, Boko Haram’s attack on Chadian soldiers in late March, and Covid'19's implications for the security landscape. Background Reading: Extremist Groups Stepping up Operations during the Covid-19 Outbreak in Sub-Saharan Africa – Emilia Columbo and Marielle Harris Supporting Mozambique’s Response to the Growing Insurgent Threat in Cabo Delgado – Emilia Columbo How Jihadi Groups in Africa Will Exploit COVID-19 – Bulama Bukarti As the World Is Distracted, Boko Haram Terrorists Strike a Key Western Ally – Will Brown

Judd Devermont is joined by Paul Nantulya (Africa Center for Strategic Studies), ret. Vice Admiral Michael Franken (AFRICOM), and Bonny Lin (Center for Strategic and International Studies) to discuss U.S. and Chinese government engagement with African security chiefs. Guests also cover the deployment of Rwandan and SADC troops in Mozambique and Burundian politics. Background Readings: Personal Ties: Measuring Chinese and U.S. Engagement with African Security Chiefs – Judd Devermont, Marielle Harris, & Alison Albelda Centering Civilian Protection in Northern Mozambique – Emilia Columbo and Kelly Moss Testimony Before the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Hearing on: “China’s Military Power Projection and U.S. National Interests” – Paul Nantulya War in Resource-Rich Northern Mozambique—Six Scenarios – Francisco Almeida dos Santos

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

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

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

What’s better than coordinating a two-day virtual conference on pressing challenges to global democracy? Try adding several different time zones!  Mvemba is joined by Marti Flacks (Director of the Human Rights Initiative at CSIS), Tiseke Kasambala (Director of Africa Programs at Freedom House) and Kate Hixon (Africa Advocacy Director at Amnesty International USA).  They discuss the March 2023 Summit for Democracy (which will be co-hosted by the U.S. and Costa Rica, the Netherlands, Republic of Korea, and Republic of Zambia), the state of democracy and human rights in African countries, disconnects between civil society and governments ahead of key elections taking place in Africa in 2023, and the lingering impacts of the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit.

African prints are wrapped up in complicated issues around gender, tradition, and commerce. How do these dynamics affect their starring role in the creative economy? In our fourth episode with African Arguments, host Judd Devermont is joined by Aubrey Hruby (Atlantic Council); Topaz Mukulu (CSIS); and Idza Luhumyo (writer) to discuss the history and future of the East African leso. Guests also discuss Angola's new opposition leader and the impact of Chinese streaming service, Boomplay.

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

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

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

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

Yes, Chef! Mvemba is joined by Pierre Thiam, a renowned chef, author, and social activist. Hailing from Senegal, Chef Thiam is best known for bringing West African cuisine to the global fine-dining world. Chef Thiam and Mvemba discuss making it in the fine dining world in New York City, the stunning diversity of food from the continent, finding inspiration in tradition, the miracle grain "fonio" and bringing Senegalese food to American supermarkets.

Critical sources of funding and supplies are flowing into the region to help the African governments battle the Covid-19 pandemic. But legacies of corruption are compromising the response efforts at a time when countries are at their most economically vulnerable. How can policymakers prevent and expose corruption, as well as implement systemic reform? Patrick Smith (Africa Report), Onyi Ough (Step Up Nigeria), and Matthew Page (Chatham House, CEIP, CDD West Africa) join Judd Devermont to discuss Covid-19, Angola's history of corruption, and Nigeria's growing political turmoil within the ruling All Progressives Congress.  Background Reading: Angolan Government Relying on Partner Assistance to Fight Covid-19 - Emilia Columbo (CSIS) Angola: on the trail of stolen billions - The Africa Report Coronavirus: Nigeria's 'Fiscal Flu' - Matthew Page (Chatham House) Dubai Property: An Oasis for Nigeria’s Corrupt Political Elites - Matthew Page (CEIP) Emeka's Money - Onyi Ough (Step Up Nigeria)

In this episode, Mvemba is joined by Amini Kajunju, Chief Operating Officer of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development (EJS) in Monrovia, Liberia. They discuss diaspora, identity, and ESJ’s work in education, training, and human development. Plus, what the hashtag #AdultingInLiberia means to Amini in the context of the country’s post-war development.

Youth, technology, and creativity are nurtured and bloom in Africa. These experiences are often diminished in Western media, skewing the understanding of the pace and dynamism of the continent. The youth leverage technology for entrepreneurship, cultural mobilization, political activism, and as a means to share their passions through art. The Roger Muntu Show bridges the gap between Western perspectives and the lived realities of Africans. With an enthusiasm for presenting authentic African stories, Roger Muntu engages Africans across the globe with stories that truly resonate with them. The show bridges connections between politicians, artists, activists, diaspora, and common people to allow for a greater understanding of each other's goals and experiences. Technology is at the forefront of The RM Show’s popularity.  Join Mvemba and Roger Muntu, International Broadcast Journalist at Voice of America, as they discuss what it means to be an African journalist. From anecdotes of his experience as a journalist to the impact of his work, Muntu shares why he is passionate about representing Africa authentically. 

What is the role of the courts in ensuring that elections are free and fair? Are African courts becoming more independent? In our fifth episode with African Arguments, Jimmy Kainja (academic), Marti Flacks (former NSC Director for Africa), and Carl LeVan (American University), join Judd Devermont to explore recent developments in how elections are conducted. Guests also discuss the nullification of election results in Malawi and Kenya, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé’s fourth term and more.   Background Reading Malawi court orders fresh elections. What now? by African Arguments The Game Has Changed: Rethinking the U.S. Role in Supporting Elections in Sub-Saharan Africa by Judd Devermont The opposition playbook for discrediting elections and its risks by African Arguments How to Rig an Election by Nic Cheeseman

What role does Africa's private sector play in the continent's inclusive growth? Cina Lawson, Minister of Digital Economy and Transformation in Togo, and Lucy Nshuti Mbabazi, Head of Africa Advocacy and Partnerships at The Better Than Cash Alliance, join Mvemba to discuss the rise of digital payments in Africa's spurred by COVID-19 restrictions. This episode explores the opportunities presented by the pandemic, the role of individual financial services, and how to drive the narrative away from a cash-strapped Africa and toward its leading mobile innovations. 

Covid-19 has accelerated the adoption of digital currency and mobile money platforms in Africa. How can innovations in FinTech lower the barriers to vital remittance flows? Judd Devermont is joined by Yomi Kazeem (Quartz Africa), Alexis Akwagyiram (Reuters), and Deepali Fernandes (IOM) to discuss the tug-of-war between innovation and regulation, high-tech solutions to expanding internet access across the continent, and the Trump Administration's opposition to the first African and first female Director-General of the WTO. Background Readings:  The Trump White House is the last obstacle to a first African leader of the WTO – Yomi Kazeem The WTO DG Race: What Happens Now? – William Alan Reinsch Google is working on delivering super-fast internet in Africa with experimental light beams – Yomi Kazeem The Train is Leaving the Station: The Future of Digital Currency in Sub-Saharan Africa – Judd Devermont & Topaz Mukulu Regulators in Africa's big economies are scrambling to get on top of a spike in cryptocurrency trade – Yomi Kazeem How Bitcoin met the real world in Africa – Alexis Akwagyiram

Since the start of the Trump Administration, the United States has identified strategic competition with China and Russia as a core objective in sub-Saharan Africa. Is great power competition the most constructive framework for formulating and implementing U.S. policies in sub-Saharan Africa? In this virtual CSIS debate event, Judd Devermont is joined by Dr. Oby Ezekwesili (Africa Economic Development Policy Initiative), Ken Ofori-Atta (Minister for Finance, Ghana), Gayle Smith (ONE Campaign), and Juan Zarate (Financial Integrity Network) to debate the opportunities and risks embedded in the great power competition concept and to explore how it evolves during a global pandemic. Online Event: CSIS Debate Series: Great Power Competition Debate Results

How do we go beyond rhetoric that rarely translates into concrete and strategic action? In our 10th episode in partnership with African Arguments, Judd Devermont is joined by Deborah Malac (former U.S. Ambassador to Uganda), Maria Burnett (CSIS), and Michael Mutyaba (African Arguments contributor) to discuss recommendations for foreign partners and donors in holding autocratic regimes accountable—beyond strongly-worded statements. Guests also delve into Uganda’s repressive elections and the deteriorating humanitarian conditions displacing millions in Ethiopia.  Background Readings:  Uganda: How donors can go beyond “strongly-worded statements” – Michael Mutyaba (African Arguments)  Repression as Voters Weigh Museveni’s 34 Years – Maria Burnett  The Battle of Mekelle and Its Implications for Ethiopia – Judd Devermont 

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

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

Mvemba is joined by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, commonly known as Bobi Wine, to discuss youth movements' challenges in Africa, reflecting on his journey as a presidential candidate in the 2021 Uganda general elections. They highlight the challenges African youth movements face in pursuing democratic change. Mvemba and Bobi Wine dive into why democracy is crumbling in some African countries. Bobi Wine argues that African youth should participate in active politics to effect democratic change in their countries. They contend that the United States military assistance to African governments is used to subvert democracy and violate human rights. Bobi Wine illustrates social media's important role in mass mobilization amid media suppression from authoritarian African regimes.

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

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

Mvemba is joined by Eric Kuikende-Banshona, a Provenance Researcher at the National Museum of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They highlight the importance of restituting African artifacts to move past European colonial history in Africa. They also urge African political leaders to focus on Africa’s cultural richness and collaborate with Western leaders to restore the history and cultures of the African people. They highlight the obligation of Western museums and private art collectors not to hide African artifacts but instead work with African provenance experts to write the authentic narratives of the artwork to preserve the meanings and knowledge they carry. 

Africa is undergoing a digital transformation, helping the region to weather some the pandemic's negative consequences. What opportunities exist to accelerate Africa's adoption of digital and mobile technologies? Host Judd Devermont is joined by Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid (African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy), Ilana Cohen (GSMA), and Greg Cohen (Asoko Insight) to discuss the Covid-19 challenge and GSMA’s report, “Digital Solutions for the Urban Poor.” Separately, Judd, Greg, and Ilana also review President Museveni’s approach to the pandemic and developments in Madagascar. Background Reading: Digital Solutions for the urban Poor - GSMA  Uganda: Driving inclusive socio-economic progress through mobile-enabled digital transformation - GSMA Mobile money recommendations to central banks in response to COVID-19 - GSMA Virus exposes gaping holes in Africa’s health systems - Reuters The Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030)

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

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

Energy development is at the heart of an inclusive African recovery from Covid-19, but how can we supercharge the region's power sector? Todd Moss (Energy for Growth Hub), Rose Mutiso (Energy for Growth Hub; Mawazo Institute), and Kate Steel (Nithio) join host Judd Devermont to discuss the future of Africa's energy sector, South Africa's struggling diplomacy in Zimbabwe, and key challenges facing African think tanks.  Background Readings: A post Covid agenda for a 'zombie-free' recovery of Africa's power markets - Rose Mutiso and Todd Moss  Pilot Database: Understanding the RACE metric - Jacob Kincer and Todd Moss  Ted Talk: How to bring affordable, sustainable electricity to Africa - Rose Mutiso  The crisis of African think tanks: Challenges and solutions - Brookings Institution About the Mazawo Institute - Mawazo.org Upcoming: Rose Mutiso's Ted Talk on climate justice and energy (Live on 10/10/2020)

For too long Africa’s role in the fight against climate change has been overlooked and underestimated. While world leaders and non-governmental organizations have tried to address the challenge, both sustainable solutions and actions have not been seen on the continent. The inaugural Africa Climate Summit brought together indigenous activists, African youth, and civil society organizations to discuss solutions to challenges felt by the most vulnerable and affected populations in this crisis. These voices highlighted what is often neglected in private sector-driven solutions by centering African voices, contributions, and demands.  After attending the summit, Ikal Angelei, an indigenous rights activist in Kenya, and Serah Makka, Africa Executive Director at ONE, shared their reflections with Mvemba. They share insights from the summit as well as propose some steps to increase the autonomy of Africans in the fight against climate change. 

This week’s episode, Dr. Zainab Usman joins Mvemba to discuss her new book, "Economic Diversification in Nigeria: The Politics of Building a Post-oil Economy." They re-examine the concept of the resource curse and explore the role of good governance and institutions in wielding natural resources for sustainable and equitable growth.  

Mvemba is joined by Joshua Walker, Director of Programs at the Congo Research Group and Francesca Bomboko, Co-Founder and Director of BERCI, a public opinion research firm based in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They unpack the results of CIC and BERCI's new national survey in the DRC. They analyze voter trends, the factors impacting President's Felix Tshisekedi's approval ratings, addressing the gap between civilians and their elected officials, the growth of Turkey as a key and popular player in the country.

How can international actors achieve the balance between recognizing strides in economic performance and development while holding governments accountable for human rights abuses and regional interference? Judd Devermont is joined by Adotei Akwei (Amnesty International), Ida Sawyer (Human Rights Watch), and Michela Wrong (Author) to discuss how the Biden Administration, with its focus on democracy and human rights, should respond to these challenges. Guests also cover alleged crimes against humanity by Eritrean troops in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region and Paul Rusesabagina’s forced disappearance and arrest.   Background Readings Ethiopia: The Massacre in Axum – Amnesty International Report  Ethiopia: Eritrean Forces Massacre Tigray Civilians – Human Rights Watch  The Dark Side of Rwanda’s Rebirth – Mvemba Phezo Dizolele  Do Not Disturb: The Story of a Political Murder and an African Regime Gone Bad – Michela Wrong

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

Experts project that the next few years will be pivotal for Africa's growth and influence. What policies should African governments and their partners focus on to positively shift the region’s trajectory? Jonathan Rosenthal (The Economist), Erin Sikorsky (National Intelligence Council), and Jakkie Cilliers (Institute for Security Studies) join Judd Devermont to discuss forecasting and the continent's projected growth and development. Guests also explore the widespread abuses by security forces during Covid-19 enforced lockdowns and Lesotho’s Prime Minister Tom Thabane’s decision to step down.  Background Reading: Africa First! Igniting a Growth Revolution - Jakkie Cilliers The African Century (The Economist special report) - Jonathan Rosenthal  Global Trends: The Paradox of Progress (2017 report)  - National Intelligence Council

Mvemba is joined by Cameron Hudson, Senior Associate with the CSIS Africa Program. They unpack the long-term drivers of tensions between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the factors that have triggered the current deadly unrest, and its devastating impact on civilians. They also discuss concerns about the conflict spreading across the region and the fate of Sudan's beleaguered democratic transition and security sector reforms.

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

Mvemba is joined by Ambassador Andrew Young, Deputy to the Commander for Civil-Military Engagement of U.S. Africa Command. They discuss the three dimensions of the department’s engagement in the region (defense, diplomacy, and development) over the past 14 years and unpack future goals of the strategic operation partnership.

What happened during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December '22? Mvemba is joined by Aloysius Uche Ordu (Senior Fellow and Director of the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings) and Kehinde Togun (Managing Director for Public Engagement at Humanity United) for a post-mortem of the summit. They identify areas of success and improvement, the commitments made, and how Washington can maintain momentum in repairing its ties with African states.

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

Mvemba is joined by Dana Banks, Senior Advisor to the President of the United States and Special Advisor for the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. With the Summit officially kicking off on December 13, they discuss the challenges and opportunities for strengthening ties between the U.S. and African countries and how to maintain momentum beyond the Summit.

What might an African strategy toward China look like, and what are implications for loans, debt management, African exports, and people-to-people flows? Judd Devermont is joined by Hannah Ryder (Development Reimagined), Cliff Mboya (China Africa Project), and Casey Schmidt (VoxCroft Analytics) to discuss African agency and policy formation toward Beijing. They also talk about Zambia’s opposition leader-turned-President Hakainde Hichilema, as well as Kenya’s faltering Building Bridges Initiative (BBI). Background reading:  From China-Africa to Africa-China: A Blueprint for a Green and Inclusive Continent-Wide African Strategy towards China – Development Reimagined Cliff Mboya Author Page – China Africa Project VoxCroft Analytics

The growth of Chinese technology in Africa has sounded alarm bells in Washington and other foreign capitals. Beyond security and surveillance risks, what, if any, benefits exist for Africans? Judd Devermont is joined by Chairman Carolyn Bartholomew (U.S. China Economic and Security Review Commission), Bulelani Jili (Harvard University), and Jeremy Goldkorn (SupChina and Sinica Podcast) to unpack the concerns surrounding Chinese involvement in the region’s tech sector, sharing recommendations for the Biden administration. Other topics include the fight for Covid-19 vaccines and ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule’s corruption charges. Background Readings:  The Spread of Surveillance Technology in Africa Stirs Security Concerns - Bulelani Jili  No immediate changes to U.S. China policy under Biden, including tariffs – Jeremy Goldkorn 

Mvemba is joined by Major General Michael J. Turley, the Adjutant General of the Utah National Guard. Turley discusses the contribution of the Utah National Guard to the execution of United States foreign security assistance at a much-reduced cost and reduced time expenditure, and the participation of the Guard in African Lion, the largest US military exercise in Africa. He further describes the importance of the Utah National Guard’s 20-year partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco, and how national guards’ units help build strong civil societies to support Africa’s transition from its colonial past and neocolonialism to democratic societies. They delve into the different components of training support the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces have received from the Utah National Guard, including humanitarian mine assistance, special forces capability training, the US Department of Defense’s military sales process, and civil emergency service training. Turley identifies language and religious barriers as the most significant challenges the Utah National Guard has faced in a longstanding partnership with the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces and highlights traditional strong family values as a bridge between the two partners. 

Mvemba is joined by Claude Grunitzky, founder of TRACE and TRUE Africa. Mvemba and Claude discuss ways African investors can support Africa's creative future, and the importance of the next generation of young media creators, entrepreneurs, and investors on the continent owning their intellectual property and cultural contributions.

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

Mvemba is joined by Fyneface Dumnamene, the Executive Director of the Youth and Environmental Advocacy Center based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. They assess President Bola Tinubu's 150 days in office, the economic challenges faced by the Tinubu administration, and Nigeria’s oil economy. They also discuss Nigeria's leadership in ECOWAS and how it has impacted the regional bloc's response to the Niger coup.  

With the conclusion of the first-ever Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi, how should the U.S. respond to Russia’s return to Africa? What are Putin’s goals for the region? Host Judd Devermont talks Russian engagement with Simon Allison (Mail & Guardian), Andrea Kendall-Taylor (Center for a New American Security) and Karen Monaghan (retired CIA officer). Guests also discuss the latest on CAR’s conflict and Guinea-Bissau’s pivotal upcoming presidential elections. Background reading: Russian Theater: How to Respond to Moscow’s Return to the African Stage - Commentary by Judd Devermont

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

Africa plays a major role in world affairs and will gain in prominence in the coming decades. How should the U.S. support African studies programs to develop the next generation of Africa experts? This special episode was recorded live at The Elliott School of International Affairs. Judd Devermont is joined by Ambassador Reuben Brigety II (The Elliot School); Jennifer Cooke (The Elliot School’s Institute for African Studies) and Professor Mohammed Camara (Howard University) to discuss the future of African studies. Also, Trump’s travel ban on Nigeria, Sudan, Eritrea, and Tanzania and President Ramaphosa’s new role as African Union Chair. Background Reading: Trump trashes Nigeria and bans its immigrants. Nigerians love him for it. – Adaobi Nwaubani, The Washington Post

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