Aron Betru

My latest commentary in the New York Times on how after the US departure from #Niger and #Chad, Washington needs to re-evaluate the nature of the actual CT threat in the region and rethink its securitized approach that is at the heart of our engagement in Africa. CSIS Africa

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#Nuclear ☢️ #energy is becoming a new policy strategy for fostering global partnerships, particularly with the Global South. #Russia 🇷🇺 is making significant strides, with #Rosatom signing agreements in #BurkinaFaso 🇧🇫, #Mali 🇲🇱, and #Algeria 🇩🇿, as well as expanding the nuclear power plant in #Egypt 🇪🇬. Countries like #Kenya 🇰🇪, #Ghana 🇬🇭, #Uganda 🇺🇬, #Rwanda 🇷🇼, and #SouthAfrica 🇿🇦 are actively seeking nuclear solutions to address their energy needs. The U.S.-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, in August 2024, presents a strategic opportunity for the #USA 🇺🇸 to reengage. USA and 21 partner countries committing at #COP28 to triple their nuclear energy capacity, push the wheels for a new trajectory. The ones demonized energy policy pushed USA to work on its domestic plan, which includes new #EPA fast-track policies, converting coal plants to nuclear (c2n), and certifying innovative nuclear technologies. Those innovations and scale of production can bring back America to global markets to assist other nations to transition to more sustainable fuel while allowing them still to grow. Energy is crucial for any advancement, and now with #africa’s needs to power its future and achieve sustainability goals, America can come back to this geostrategic game.

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It is the #DecadeforAfrica. For the keen-eyed international investor seeking new frontiers, every social service, infrastructure, energy access gap, just about anything we call crisis is a business opportunity. All risks mitigated. The Texas Africa Chamber of Commerce (TXACC), City of Houston, City of Houston Mayor's Office of Trade & International Affairs, Africa Diaspora Advancement Council, Texas Medical Center turns the spotlight to #healthandhumanservices in #Africa by hosting the #AfricaFirstLadiesHealthSummit - https://aflhs.org/ Every 17 seconds, a child is stillborn. In other statistical terms, 1 in 72 total births results in a stillborn baby as captured in the UNICEF State of the World Children’s Report. The Report states that “Women in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia bear the greatest burden of stillbirths in the world.......In sub-Saharan Africa, the estimated stillbirth rate of 21.1 stillbirths per 1,000 total births was eight times higher than the lowest regional average stillbirth rate of 2.6 found in the Western Europe.” WHO-UNICEF Model of Care for Small and/or Sick Newborns has identified 10 core components for scaling up action for Maternal and Child Health and these include: Vision, political commitment, leadership and national plan as well as adequate and sustainable financing. Another classical case of #purposedrivenplatforms. First Ladies are pivotal to driving trade, investments and economic cooperation in #socialinfrastructure just like H.E Senator Oluremi Tinubu, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Convener of the #AfricanFirstLadiesforDevelopment. #Houston has the largest medical center in the World and is well positioned to drive an international strategy to build business bridges not just for fossil and renewable energy but also #healthandlifesciences The silent emergency in overall health care services delivery especially in maternal and child health care is a clarion call for new capital flows to improve the #qualityoflife index in Africa. Moving away from #aidtotrade, from a tokenistic approach to strategic investments. Surely the #newscrambleforAfrica must go beyond the “scavenging” for cobalt, copper and all the critical minerals. Take your stake. Register for the #AfricaFirstLadiesHealthSummit! For #HealthCareinstitutions, #DiasporanandBlackProfessionals, #HealthTechandinnovation, #financialservices, #nonprofits, #professionalservicesfirms Posso Ganame, Christopher Olson, Mazda Denon, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-ErewaYele Aluko MD, MBA, FACC, FSCAI. Oluyinka Olutoye, MD, PhD. Chinyere Anyaogu MD MPH FACOG, Gertie Chimeka Anyanwoke, MD, MBA, FIDSA, FACP, Njide Okonjo-Udochi MD,MPH,MBA,MS FAAFP, Uzodinma Iweala, Uchechi Iweala, Ihuoma Azuike MPH, Engee Ibe, The Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), Africa Healthcare Network, Ajong Mbapndah, Nana K. Asare, 𝕮𝖍𝖎𝖓𝖊𝖉𝖚 𝕸𝖔𝖌𝖍𝖆𝖑𝖚, Tolu Opeloye, MHCA, Naomi Adjei, MD, MPH, MSEd, Dr.OLUTOLA SOBANDE,Pharm.D, M.P.S.N

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"Now is the time that we need to make a dramatic and bold move. For too long, women have been on the periphery of the financial system." Tune into my keynote at the Africa CEO Forum, where I discuss how inclusive financial systems can support women as key drivers of economic growth. #ACF2024 https://lnkd.in/eZrfHJH6

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𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗔𝗖-𝗔𝗗𝗘: 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮 In the mosaic of U.S. diplomatic and advisory bodies, the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States (PAC-ADE) stands out for its unique mission and profound impact. Established under Executive Order 14089 by President Biden, PAC-ADE is dedicated to strengthening the ties between the United States, the African continent, and the global #AfricanDiaspora. The council's mission is multifaceted and ambitious. It aims to enhance the #social, #political, and #economic ties between the U.S. and Africa by harnessing the potential and influence of the African diaspora. This includes advising on policies that affect diaspora communities and recommending strategies to increase their participation in U.S.-Africa relations, especially in areas like #trade, #investment, and #cultural exchange. Executive Order 14089 outlines clear objectives for #PACADE, emphasizing the importance of integrating the diaspora’s perspectives into U.S. foreign policy towards Africa. The order also seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse accomplishments and rich cultural heritage of Africans in America, thereby fostering a deeper sense of belonging and community among diaspora members. The upcoming #Kenya State visit serves as a prime example of how PAC-ADE is pivotal in bridging the gap between the African diaspora and African nations. By involving diaspora leaders and voices in the discussions and activities surrounding such state visits, PAC-ADE not only highlights their significant role in these international exchanges but also ensures that their unique insights and connections are utilized to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. As we look forward to this significant #diplomatic event, it’s crucial to recognize the strategic role of PAC-ADE in enhancing not just the state visit’s success but also in advancing broader U.S.-Africa relations. Their work is a testament to the power of inclusive dialogue and the vital contributions of the African diaspora to #globaldiplomacy. Stay tuned as we continue to explore and celebrate the impact of PAC-ADE in our community and beyond. Their ongoing efforts are not just shaping U.S.-Africa policy but are also empowering the African diaspora to play a central role in the narrative of international relations. #PACADECouncil #AfricanDiaspora #USAfricaRelations #Diplomacy

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We are excited to welcome Ferdinand BASSONNA to the Center of Excellence on Human-centered Global Economy at The Digital Economist as a 2024-25 Fellow! Ferdinand is the visionary founder of GovRise, a non-profit organization in Togo dedicated to enhancing governance at all levels—from local to international—to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His commitment and innovative approach to governance have empowered communities and promoted sustainable development. With a Masters in Advanced Studies in European and International Governance from the University of Geneva, Ferdinand has a robust academic foundation complemented by extensive practical experience. He has worked fervently for the protection of refugees and migrants, focusing on creating sustainable solutions for these vulnerable groups. Moreover, his advocacy work with UNITED for Intercultural Action has further solidified his role as a key player in international policy advocacy. At The Digital Economist, Ferdinand's role as a Fellow in our governance workgroup will be crucial. His deep understanding of governance and policy-making will drive our initiatives forward, aligning with our mission to harness digital technologies for a human-centered global economy. Please join us in welcoming Ferdinand BASSONNA to our vibrant community! We are eager to collaborate with him and are confident his contributions will have an impact on our work. #DigitalEconomist #HumanCenteredGlobalEconomy #Governance #SDGs #SustainableDevelopmentGoals #NonProfit #GlobalGovernance #CommunityEmpowerment #SustainableDevelopment #Togo #InternationalGovernance #EuropeanGovernance #Advocacy #RefugeeSupport #MigrantSupport #PublicPolicy #InternationalRelations #GlobalEconomy #DigitalTransformation #PolicyMaking #EconomicDevelopment #SocialImpact #HumanRights #CommunityDevelopment #Innovation #Leadership #Sustainability #Education #InternationalLaw #Geneva #NonProfitLeadership #InternationalDevelopment #EconomicPolicy #DigitalEconomy #GlobalDevelopment #AdvocacyWork #LocalGovernance #RegionalGovernance #NationalGovernance #SubnationalGovernance #UnitedNations #UNSDGs #InterculturalAction #SocialJustice #GlobalPolicy #GlobalLeadership #CommunityLeadership #ImpactfulGovernance #GovernanceImprovement #GovernanceStrategies #PublicAdministration #EconomicImpact #FutureLeaders #ChangeMakers

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Today, President Biden welcomes President Ruto of Kenya for a State Visit and Dinner to celebrate and deepen ties between our two nations. The two leaders’ agenda showcases how our ties deliver tangible benefits to the people of our nations in areas including Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance; Health Partnerships; People-to-People Ties; Shared Climate Solutions; Trade and Investment; Debt, Development, and Sustainable Finance; Digital, Critical, and Emerging Technology Cooperation; and Peace and Security Cooperation.

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Thanks to Oge Onubogu, Susan Stigant, Joseph A., and Fonteh Akum for joining me in this conversation about the future of democratic governance in Africa. This was the final panel of the Africa Futures Summit hosted by Humanity United, Institute for Security Studies, United States Institute of Peace, and Open Society Foundations. https://lnkd.in/eCuy9R7t

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At the request of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), a delegation of BENS members visited the West African countries of Benin and Cote D’Ivoire in December 2023 to hold discussions with senior government and business leaders on strengthening the commercial ties between the host countries and the United States. In the latest edition of BENS Insights, two members of that delegation - David McDonald and Jim Smith - share their views on building better bonds in the region. #westafrica #commercialties #nationalsecurity #BENS #BENSInsights

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I believe that Africa is at a pivotal moment in its economic development. I'm happy to share my latest published article where I explore the crucial role of strategic trade and investment policies play in fostering Africa's economic renaissance. In this piece, I explain how targeted policies can unlock opportunities across diverse sectors, driving sustainable growth and prosperity for the continent. Whether you're a policymaker, investor, or simply passionate about Africa's future, this article offers valuable perspectives. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲: https://lnkd.in/dADwjZHX Let's continue the conversations shaping our economic landscape!

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Dear ECHO colleagues and friends in Africa and around the world, I would like to share this insightful and thoughtful report titled "How African NGOs grow" by Niloufer Memon and her colleagues at The Bridgespan Group. https://lnkd.in/gaEtgDBe

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At the #Africa Day the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development #HLPF2024. Participating on discussions on how to foster a more prosperous, inclusive and resilient Africa through renewed partnership and strong institutions How is this possible given the current African debt architecture where we spend more on Debt servicing than we spend on Health and Education? #SustainableDevelopmentGoals #Agenda206 United Nations Economic Commission for Africa UN Office of the Special Adviser on Africa UNDP African Union Jean-Paul Adam #Africa AIDI Wafa

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🌟 Today, I had the pleasure of sharing insights with over 40 CSOs under the @Kenya NGOs Alliance Against Malaria (KeNAAM) network on developing impactful fundraising plans. 🌟 During the session, we tackled some of the key challenges growing organizations face, particularly in developing meaningful fundraising strategies. Traditional strategy development can be time-consuming and costly, making it impractical for growing non-profits with limited budgets. ⏳💸 In our discussion, I covered: 🔹 How to ensure your plan is anchored to your mission and strategic plan 🔹 Setting fundraising goals that meet your needs 🔹 Developing strategies aligned with the fundraising cycle 🔹 Top strategies that growing CSOs should consider At Realtime Insights, we specialize in creating packages that help grassroots and mid-sized organizations design simple, practical fundraising plans. 📊✨ Our streamlined approach significantly reduces the timeframe, making the process more accessible and cost-effective. 🚀💡 Need a fundraising plan? Reach out to us on WhatsApp: 254 790 410 139 Thank you, KENAAM leadership Edward Mwangi the opportunity to share and collaborate! #Fundraising #NonProfit #StrategyDevelopment #CSO #KENAAM #RealtimeInsights

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Yesterday, Monday, July 8th, I participated in the Chad Economic Update 2024 in Ndjamena. This report focuses on enhancing the economic inclusion of refugees from the Sudanese crisis. It also presents recent developments and perspectives on Chad’s economy. The Economic Update is part of the World Bank Group’s series of periodic publications highlighting recent economic trends, analyzing the short—to medium-term economic outlook, and devoting a special chapter to issues relevant to the country’s development. #WorldBank #Chad #Refugees #Inclusion

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ECOSYSTEM CONVERSATION Loved the conversation on collaboration and coordination - and how to take advantage of the emerging space. Looking forward Yomuma Likessa to continue and build on the rich conversation.

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In  a landmark move, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the African Union Commission (AUC), and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have signed a protocol agreement for a $5.2 million grant. This financing aims to bolster investment, human capital, and philanthropic engagement from the African diaspora in eight target countries. The agreement, signed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, heralds the beginning of the “Streamlining Diaspora Engagement to Catalyse Private Investments and Entrepreneurship for Enhanced Resilience” (SDE4R) project. The target countries—The Gambia, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Somalia, South Sudan, Togo, and Zimbabwe—are poised to benefit from this strategic initiative. The SDE4R project seeks to effectively mobilise the human and financial capital of the diaspora to support socio-economic development, revive the domestic private sector, and aid recovery from political or humanitarian crises. To read the full article follow this link: https://lnkd.in/d_KXMkS4

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#Leadership is at the core of today's #FridaySmile. At The Wilson Center program this week on the reauthorization of #AGOA and its importance for US-Africa trade, it was great to reconnect with two old friends and #friendsofAfrica - US Senator from Delaware Christopher Coons and former US Ambassador to #Tanzania and USAID head Ambassador Mark Green. Many people in Washington have positions of authority, but few I've ever met have the ability to #getthingsdone - working across parties and cultures and timezones - as effectively and with as much vision as Chris and Mark. As Coons said, #Africa is a continent full of talent and ideas. We in the US need to show up for Africa, to partner with Africa, to increase trade with Africa. And we need to show up at #scale. Its part of what we're all about at Agromovil Pick your issue: #foodsecurity #employment #climate #migration #growth... no matter how you frame the future, history is being made on the continent and we in the global north - and in the United States - need to pay attention. For today's #SmileFriday here's to two real #solvers, two #whipsmart guys with long careers in #publicservice who understand the way government can work with the #privatesector, two #leaders committed to taking on the biggest challenges of our day. #agtech #publicprivatepartnership #opportunity #marketaccess #chapeau

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Understanding the barriers to access and intensive use of technology by African firms is essential to help unlock their full potential. IFC - International Finance Corporation’s new #DigitalAfrica report shows that: - Businesses frequently face limits on foreign participation in markets, limited competition, and high tariffs for digital goods. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) can add significantly to business prospects through trade in digital services. - Middle and last mile infrastructure is needed to reduce broadband prices, driven by the expansion of submarine cables by 2027. - Technology prices in Africa are up to 35% higher compared to other regions. - High-skill human capital is scarce and expensive in Africa - African businesses face higher rejection rates and higher interest rates for loans for technology upgrades and business expansion.   This represents a substantial opportunity for both local businesses and investors. Find our more: https://lnkd.in/eqjHMD3K

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Ty Findley asks insightful questions on the “how” of our proposed action plan for rebuilding U.S. leadership in Advanced Manufacturing — and Brady Helwig and Addis Goldman provide concise answers on solutions for the scaling, financing, policy, and workforce obstacles to success. Check out this new podcast episode on Heavy Hitters: The Digital Industrial Podcast Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP

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