2026 African Diplomatic Engagement Program & Talks

This spring’s African Diplomatic Engagement Program & Talks (ADEPT) roundtable, “Leveraging Educational Partnerships for Commercial Diplomacy,” will examine an increasingly important feature of U.S.–Africa policy under the new Administration: the growing emphasis on commercial diplomacy, including trade, investment, and the partnerships needed to support long-term economic engagement. Within that broader frame, this discussion will focus specifically on the role of educational partnerships, leadership development, and skills-building initiatives in advancing stronger commercial ties between Africa and the United States. 

This convening, organized and hosted by the Africa-America Institute in partnership with the African Union Mission to the United States, will bring together African ambassadors, U.S. government representatives, and higher education and policy leaders for a curated discussion aimed at generating practical insights, spotlighting promising models, and reinforcing the importance of sustained collaboration in this area.

For more information, contact adept@aaiafrica.org

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

May 5, 2026

Washington, D.C.

RSVP Here

Previous Convenings

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  • “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