Africa and U.S. Cities

Africa matters to U.S. cities

Over the past few decades, the continent has shaped the wealth, foreign policy profile, academic success, and cultural life of America’s major cities. To explore these links, the CSIS Africa Program is showcasing how the continent enriches Americans’ daily lives, highlighting economic, political, social, and cultural ties. We are also featuring the voices of Africans—including diaspora members living in the United States—on big topics like security, trade, Covid-19, immigration, systemic racism, and the U.S. election. How can these ties strengthen and deepen U.S.-African relations?

All Africa and U.S. Cities Content

Filter by

1 - 10 of 11 results

Getting It Right: U.S. Trade and Investment in Sub-Saharan Africa

U.S. government efforts to increase U.S.-Africa trade and investment will require building on existing programs and dreaming bigger. The CSIS Africa Program recommends improvements to Washington’s storytelling and a focus on enabling environments abroad.

Commentary by Judd Devermont and Marielle Harris — March 24, 2021

The Quad-City Advantage in Africa

What is the advantage of Quad Cities-based agriculture companies in Africa? The Africa Program hosted a discussion between Quad Cities and African agriculture businesses and U.S. government officials to talk about the prospects for greater U.S.-Africa trade and investment.

Commentary by Judd Devermont — January 22, 2021

Why Africa Matters to Boise

Africa matters to Boise, Idaho. CSIS’s Judd Devermont highlights the city’s commitment to welcoming refugees and its contributions to shaping U.S.-African policy at the national level.

Commentary by Judd Devermont — December 14, 2020

Why Africa Matters to Albuquerque

Albuquerqueans are advancing U.S. interests and contributing to peace and security in sub-Saharan Africa. Judd Devermont highlights Albuquerque’s national security ties, as well as the city’s economic, cultural, and academic links to the region.

Commentary by Judd Devermont — December 10, 2020

Rediscovering America: Why African Leader Tours Benefit U.S. Foreign Policy

It is time for the U.S. government to revive the African leader visit, escorting counterparts outside the Beltway. Judd Devermont and Catherine Chiang urge Washington to restore pomp and circumstance tours for African leaders to rebuild ties and advance U.S. policy.

Commentary by Judd Devermont and Catherine Chiang — November 18, 2020

Why Africa Matters to Birmingham

Africa matters to Birmingham, Alabama. Judd Devermont highlights the city’s economic ties to the region, as well as academic, religious, and personal links underscored by its vibrant diaspora community.

Commentary by Judd Devermont — October 28, 2020

Why Africa Matters to Providence

Africa matters to Providence, Rhode Island. Judd Devermont explains how the city’s ties to the continent have elevated its educational reputation, deepened it cultural life, and even contributed to its Covid-19 response.

Commentary by Judd Devermont — August 12, 2020