Wilson Center

Summer/Fall 2023

With the world’s youngest workforce, abundant natural resources, rising cultural influence, and on the precipice of having the globe’s largest trade area, Africa is ready to be met on its own terms. Yet mainstream media coverage focuses on conflict, poverty, disease, and other tired stereotypes, presenting a picture that is far from the vibrant, contemporary continent that exists today. This special issue of the Wilson Quarterly features some of today's most important African voices, and focuses on six key themes that demonstrate just what makes today’s Africa increasingly consequential beyond its borders: Economic Opportunity, People, Technology, Cultural Influence, Governance, and US-Africa Relations.

EXPLORE ISSUE

Introduction

Africa Matters

Oge Onubogu

Drawing on nearly two decades of experience working on Africa and US-Africa relations—which includes collaborating with African governments, international partners, civil society, academia, and the private sector—Onubogu provides a compelling synopsis of Africa’s growing global influence.

READ NOW

Foreword: The Africa I Know

Ambassador Mark A. Green

Reflecting on his family ties to South Africa and his professional experience on the continent including as US Ambassador to Tanzania, USAID administrator, and other global leadership roles, Green explains why he’s an Africa guy through and through.

READ

Bolstering Africa’s Trading Power

H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala with Oge Onubogu

In this timely interview, we hear directly from the head of the World Trade Organization about Africa’s growing trade with itself, and the world.

WATCH

Interactive

Africa Matters

Cheri Ayers and Juliet Lancey

Whether you are an expert on Africa or a neophyte, this interactive quiz will test your knowledge about the continent with a focus on the issue’s core themes: Economic Opportunity, People, Technology, Cultural Influence, Governance, and US-Africa relations.