The United States has been supporting the development of young African leaders through the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), which was established in 2010. YALI aims to foster growth and prosperity, enhance democratic governance, and promote peace and security across Africa. This initiative involves significant investment from the U.S. to improve leadership skills, support entrepreneurship, and facilitate connections among young African leaders and their counterparts in the United States.
The YALI programs include the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, YALI Regional Leadership Centers, and the YALI Network. These programs offer various opportunities for young Africans to develop their leadership abilities.
Another key program is the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), initiated by the U.S. Department of State in 1940. The IVLP is a professional exchange program that seeks to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries through short-term visits for current and emerging foreign leaders. Participants are chosen based on their professional interests, aligning with U.S. foreign policy goals.
The Fulbright Program also plays a significant role in educational exchanges, funded by appropriations from the U.S. Congress along with contributions from foreign governments and various institutions. Annually, it awards approximately 8,000 individuals including students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals from over 160 countries.
Furthermore, USAU collaborates with AUC’s Division of Education & Learning to provide English language development opportunities for AU diplomats through various formats such as in-person instruction and online courses.
Many Africans have participated in these exchange programs sponsored by the U.S., with numerous alumni having graduated from American colleges and universities. The U.S. Mission to the African Union continues to offer avenues for alumni to reconnect and strengthen partnerships formed during their time in the United States.