African Diplomatic Engagement Program & Talks

This unique program convenes both new and experienced African Ambassadors to learn from one another and from sectoral experts about how to maximize their impact as international representatives in the United States. Launched in 2019, AAI’s Diplomatic Program has been held in Washington, D.C., Houston, and Queenstown, as well as virtually. Starting in 2026, AAI will host an African Diplomatic Engagement Program and Talks (ADEPT) convening, previously referred to as DIPLO, every 6 months. For more information, email us at adept@aaiafrica.org.

Advancing U.S.–Africa Partnerships Through Conversation and Exchange.

Community Building
ADEPT Spring 2026 - Washington, D.C.

ADEPT Spring 2026 - Washington, D.C.
ADEPT 2025 - Washington, D.C.

ADEPT 2025 - Washington, D.C.
ADEPT 2024 - Washington, D.C.

ADEPT 2024 - Washington, D.C.
ADEPT 2021 - Virtual Gathering

ADEPT 2021 - Virtual Gathering
ADEPT 2019 - Houston, TX

ADEPT 2019 - Houston, TX
ADEPT 2019 - Queenstown, MD

ADEPT 2019 - Queenstown, MD

  • “I thank AAI’s leadership for providing this excellent opportunity to engage diplomatically. It was of great value for African Diplomats to gain insights from the panel discussions, and how Africa is perceived in the Western Media and why.”

    H.E. ROBIE KAKONGE

    The Republic of Uganda’s Ambassador to the USA

  • “This was my first African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program. However, I hope it is not my last. In fact, I am already looking forward to the next AAI convening of African Ambassadors and discussions of the important challenges confronting our continent,”

    H.E. JEFF DOWANA

    The Republic of Liberia’s Ambassador to the USA

  • “AAI’s support for the African Diplomatic Corps is critical to deepening commercial ties between the U.S. and African nations. The day long partnership with the Center for American Progress (CAP) was a model for the partnership we are working to build with our partners on the continent.”

    DR. WITNEY SCHNEIDMAN

    CEO, Schneidman & Associates International

  • “I commend AAI for creating the African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program. It is an important and necessary tool that strengthens my efforts to promote the African Union here in Washington and across the United States.”

    H.E. HILDA SUKA-MAFUDZE

    AU Ambassador to the United States

  • “I learnt so much during the course of the programme and had the opportunity to also engage the experienced stakeholders that were present. Great networking opportunity too.”

    YOLISWA MVEBE

    Minister Plenipotentiary/Deputy Chief of Mission
    Embassy of the Republic of South Africa

  • “The African Diplomatic Orientation and Engagement Program provided a tremendous opportunity for mutual learning and sharing among African Diplomats, the Diaspora, and segments of the American Corporate Community. This engagement also provided assurance of American continued commitment to Africa’s development and Africa’s partnership with the global community.”

    HON. MICHAEL BATTLE

    Former U.S. Ambassador to the African Union