Assistant Secretary Johnnie Carson leads the Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs, the division in the Department focused on the development and management of U.S. policy concerning the continent. There are five pillars that serve as the foundation of U.S. policy toward Africa. Learn More»
The United States comprehensive, multi-year strategy seeks to help the Governments of Uganda, C.A.R., the D.R.C., and South Sudan as well as the African Union and United Nations to mitigate and end the threat posed to civilians and regional stability by the LRA. Fact Sheet»
President Obama's Message to the People of Kenya
Feb. 5: In these videotaped remarks, President Obama delivers a clear message to the people of Kenya: The upcoming elections are a historic opportunity for Kenyans to stand together, as a nation, for peace and progress, and for the rule of law. Full Text»
U.S. Delegation Attends AU Summit
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Don Yamamoto led the U.S. delegation to the 20th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on January 27 and 28, 2013. He was accompanied by Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan Princeton Lyman, and USAID Assistant Administrator for Africa Earl Gast. Full Text»
Assistant Secretary Carson (Jan. 16): "Now, for the first time in more than two decades, Somalia has a representative government with a new President, a new Parliament, a new Prime Minister, and a new Constitution, and the Somali people have reason to hope for a better future." Full Text» Background Briefing» DipNote»
United States To Chair Counter-Piracy Contact Group in 2013
Jan. 3: Nearly 80 nations and international organizations working together to turn the tide of maritime crime along one of the world’s busiest along one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors. Fact Sheet» PM/CPMS»
Rebel Movement in the Central African Republic
Spokesperson Nuland (Jan. 2): "We remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the Central African Republic. We understand that the Seleka rebels took the town of Sibut over the weekend. We call on the rebel alliance to cease its hostilities and its movement towards the capital, and we also call on the government and the rebel alliance to ensure the safety of the civilian population." Full Text»
Rwandan Planning Minister Convicted of Genocide by ICTR
Spokesperson Nuland (Dec. 20): "The United States welcomes this ruling as an important step in providing justice and accountability for the Rwandan people and the international community. Yesterday’s conviction sends a strong signal that the international community will not rest until the remaining fugitives are brought to account." Full Text»
Assistant Secretary Carson (Dec. 19): "Looking forward, we are using all the tools at our disposal to help address and end this crisis. We are monitoring humanitarian needs and working to mobilize resources to ensure continued emergency assistance to civilians in need." Full Text»
The United States Announces Next Facilitator of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership
Dec. 18: Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Dr. Kerri-Ann Jones and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Cynthia Akuetteh announced the appointment of the next facilitator of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership (CBFP). Full Text»
Presidential and Parliamentary Elections in Ghana
Dec. 11: The United States congratulates President John Dramani Mahama on his December 7 victory in the Ghanaian presidential race. International observers reported the elections to be free, fair, and transparent. We also commend the Ghanaian people who turned out in overwhelming numbers to participate in Ghana’s sixth successful presidential and parliamentary election. Full Text»
Travel to Juba, South Sudan
Dec. 11: Ambassador Princeton Lyman, U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan and South Sudan, traveled to Juba, South Sudan for a series of high-level meetings with government officials, members of civil society, and representatives of international organizations working in South Sudan. More»