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Obama to Visit S'Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, Considers Stopover in Nigeria
17 May 2013
President Barack ObamaBy Paul OhiaPresident Barack Obama of the United States is billed to begin his second tour of Africa at the end of June with visits to South Africa, Tanzania and Rwanda.He will however make a stopover in Nigeria, during which he will hold bilateral discussions with President Goodluck Jonathan and other top government officials.The initial plan for the African tour was for Obama to spend two days in Nigeria, but owing to insecurity occasioned by the terrorist activities of the Islamic militant group, Boko Haram, the plan was reviewed and he is now expected to spend a few hours or one day in the country.Sources from the presidency added that security situation during Obama's visit would be paramount and if there is any reason to doubt Nigeria's unpreparedness to host the US president, his visit to the country might be cancelled outright.Obama's maiden visit to Africa took him to Ghana in July 2009 during which he met with President John Atta Mills, now deceased, and delivered a speech at the Ghanaian parliament in addition to touring a former departing point of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the Cape Coast Castle.The non-inclusion of Nigeria on his itinerary in 2009 was widely regarded as a snub and a subtle criticism of the country's leadership, a perception, which the then Secretary of State, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, dismissed.She had said Obama's choice of Ghana was "meant to tea-up" US relationship with sub-Saharan Africa, and the choice should not be interpreted in any other way.During his visit, the two nations are expected to discuss issues centred on trade relations, security and human rights.
Tags: Featured, News, Nigeria, Obama, Rwanda, S’Africa, Tanzania
Obama to Visit S'Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, Considers Stopover in Nigeria, Articles | THISDAY LIVE
A more elaborated press release on Obama's visit of Africa, Nigeria and Rwanda omitted Senegal added
22nd May 13
Obama to unveil power supply plan for Africa
Gadiosa Lamtey
US President Barack Obama is expected to unveil a new plan for distribution of electricity in Africa during a historic two-day visit to Tanzania in early July, a US Embassy press statement issued in Dar es Salaam yesterday said.
According to the statement, President Obama and First Lady Michelle will visit Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania between June 26 and July 3.
It said President Obama's visit was principally meant to underscore the value placed by Tanzania and the United States on the need to consolidate diplomatic ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa.
"The visit will reinforce the importance the United States places on our deep and growing ties with countries in sub-Saharan Africa," read part of the statement.
It said these ties would be developed through expansion of economic growth, investment, and trade as well as through the strengthening of democratic institutions and investing in the next generation of African leaders.
The statement added that Obama's trip would underline the US President's commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between his country and the people of sub-Saharan Africa, with a view to advancing and enhancing regional and global peace and prosperity.
While in Tanzania, President Obama is expected to meet with a wide array of leaders from government, the business sector and civil society – including youth organisations – for talks on strategic partnerships on bilateral and global issues.
Salvatory Rweyemamu, Director of Presidential Communications, earlier yesterday confirmed to the BBC from Dar es Salaam that President Obama would be in Tanzania for two days during which he would announce the new power distribution plan for Africa.
He said President Obama would be visiting Tanzania chiefly because relations between the two countries are good, adding that the visit would help strengthen ties between the two countries.
Rweyemamu also explained that President Obama's decision to visit Tanzania attested to the fact that Tanzania was moving in the right direction in terms of social, economic and political development.
"Tanzania is a good example of African countries that have attained recognition for their records in good governance and development initiatives as well as for being havens of peace on a continent plagued by violent conflicts," he noted.
He appealed to Tanzanians to demonstrate, prize and cherish patriotism and so maintain the positive image that has won the country international recognition and commendation.
Obama's visit will be his second to sub-Saharan Africa as US President and follows that of his predecessor, President George W. Bush, in February 2008 that witnessed the signing of the five-year $698 million Millennium Challenge Compact.
That was by far the largest project, in monetary terms, to have been signed in the history of the Millennium Challenge Corporation.
Analysts say that, with former President Bill Clinton also having visited Africa during his second term in office, such high-profile trips are common for US presidents after they are relieved of the pressure of domestic campaigning and leadership. They add, though, that it is especially noteworthy that three consecutive US presidents have graced Tanzania with visits.
Since the signing of the Millennium Challenge Compact, the US government has provided funds to rehabilitate and expand Tanzania's strategic water, energy and road infrastructure.
THE GUARDIAN
http://www.ippmedia.com/frontend/functions/print_article.php?l=54978
24th May 13
Obama to pump in $800m during visit to Tanzania
Correspondent Mtei David
US President Barack Obama's visit to Tanzania next month will be accompanied with a windfall as he will bring with him USD800m to support implementation of the Millennium Development Goals in the East African country.
Briefing the African Diplomatic Corps and the press yesterday, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation minister Bernard Membe said the US support will be channelled into water, roads and education projects.
In his entourage, the seond to the continent sicne he came to power, President Obama will be accompanied by his family and close to 700 delegates comprising CEOs of various companies, the minister said.
The American head of businesses are expected to explore venture opportunities in the areas of energy in what has been termed as "Power Africa"-- President Obama's visiting agenda.
Membe called upon the Tanzanian business community to get ready to grab the business opportunities that will be brought by the entourage.
Tanzania is expected to host President Barack Obama of the United States in what is considered to be the biggest visit ever on July 1 to 2, this year. Prior to visiting Tanzania, the US president will tour Senegal and South Africa.
According to a statement issued by the White House earlier this week, the visit embarks the US' "commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between the Noth American country and the people of sub-Saharan Africa."
Minister Membe noted that Obama's visit will almost coincide with the Smart Partnership Dialogue to be hosted in Dar es Salaam on June 28 through July 1, this year.
The theme of this year's Dialogue is "Leveraging Technology for Africa's Socio-economic Transformation: The Smart Partnership War".
Important dignitaries from all over the world are expected to attend the Dialogue, including former US President George W. Bush and his wife Laura Bush, said Minister Membe, adding that the main agenda of President's Obama's visit is "Power Africa".
Energy sector is vital in the economic development of the Africa Continent and this visit is earmarked to highlight power and energy conservation among African nations.
On that, President Obama is expected to host a businessmen forum that will bring together groups from various development sectors from both countries. In another development, Minister Membe briefed pressmen about the African Union's Golden Jubilee celebrations, slated for this Saturday at Karimjee Grounds in Dar es Salaam.
Detailing the programme, the Permanent Secretary John Haule said the theme for the AU's 50 years' celebration is Pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance.
Other activities will include a panel discussion on the role of AU in the struggle for African liberations and self-determination.
The press conference was also attended by ambassadors of Mozambique, Namibia, Algeria, Nigeria, Malawi, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, Somalia and from a number of other African countries.
Dean of African Diplomatic Corps Prof Ambrosio Lukoki said the AU celebrations should not only be a jubilee but a special opportunity to reflect on where "we come from, where we are and where we are going."
"The day should be used to discuss the challenges facing the continent including, the tendency by the powerful nations to have voice over Africa," Prof Lukoki said.
THE GUARDIAN
http://www.ippmedia.com/frontend/functions/print_article.php?l=55066
Tanzania, US in funding deal
President Barack Obama meets his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Kikwete in the Oval office at the Whie House. In his second tour of Africa next month Mr Obama will visit three African countries, which include Tanzania, Senegal and South Africa. PHOTO | FILE
In Summary
Tanzania has been the biggest recipient of MCC for education, infrastructure and health......we expect to sign another deal soon after President Obama lands in Dar es Salaam.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is expected to sign a multi-billion shilling deal with the Millennium Challenge Corporation after US President Barack Obama arrives in the country in July, the government has confirmed.
In a press and diplomatic briefing yesterday, the minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Bernard Membe, said it was likely that Tanzania would sign a major deal with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) for funding which will be spent on education, health and road infrastructure.
Membe said the coming of President Obama to Tanzania signifies the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries under President Jakaya Kikwete. Though he said Tanzania would be representing the region, it has also invited members of the Smart Partnership to attend.
Membe's statement on regional representation captured the attention of Kenyan high commissioner Mutinda Mutiso, who asked if other East African heads of state have been invited. However, the minister was coy in his response only insisting that those who are Smart Partnership members have been sent their invitations.
"Tanzania has been the biggest recipient of MCC for education, infrastructure and health......we expect to sign another deal soon after President Obama lands in Dar es Salaam," Mr Membe said, adding: "We will hold economic discussions. He will address the issue of energy in Africa, economic development and how many people investing in the power-generation sector."
The minister said ceos would explore the importance of science and technology. He noted, however, that President Obama will also address the CEOs Roundtable. "Obama's visit will be beneficial to the whole region...in terms of investments, we expect to have a big team of CEOs from the US and their counterparts in Dar," he said.
Back to The Citizen: Tanzania, US in funding deal
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/News/-/1840392/1861210/-/view/printVersion/-/8hbtfbz/-/index.html
[h=1]Obama Unveils Plan to Boost Electric Power in Sub-Saharan Africa[/h]By Julianna Goldman and Margaret Talev - Jun 30, 2013
President Barack Obama, putting his mark on U.S. aid to Africa, announced a plan to boost access to electric power in the sub-Sahara and said America stands to benefit if the continent reaches its full economic potential.
Obama unveiled the $7 billion initiative dubbed Power Africa at the University of Cape Town in a speech that his aides billed as the centerpiece of his three-country tour through Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania to promote trade and investment on the rapidly growing continent.
The president's goal is to double access to electricity across six countries that the White House has singled out for promoting good governance -- Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria and Tanzania.
"I'm calling for America to up our game when it comes to Africa," he said. "There's no question Africa's on the move, but it's not moving fast enough for the child still languishing in poverty in forgotten townships."
American companies see growing opportunity in Africa. U.S. merchandise exports to the 49-country region were $21 billion in 2011, up 23 percent from 2010, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Imports from sub-Saharan Africa were worth $74 billion in 2011, up 14 percent from 2010. Most of that, about $60 billion, was crude oil.
Africa has 15 percent of the world's population yet it accounts for only 3 percent of energy consumption, according to a 2011 report by theAfrican Union and other organizations.
[h=2]Mandela's Health[/h]With Nelson Mandela's fragile health weighing heavily throughout the African trip, the U.S. president has invoked the anti-apartheid icon's legacy to draw the connection between democratic values and economic growth.
Obama's speech included a tribute to Mandela and he and his family toured the apartheid-era prison at Robben Island, finishing in a courtyard near Mandela's former prison cell. He then visited a community center that provides HIV education and treatment run by Archbishop Desmond Tutu's foundation.
While Africa is rising, progress is "fragile," vulnerable to "the rot of corruption" and "the undertow of conflict," Obama said in his speech.
He will travel today to Tanzania for the last stop of the three-nation tour. In the country's fast-growing metropolis of Dar es Salaam, he'll convene a roundtable of company executives and promote investments in electrification projects.
Recognizing Africa's rapid growth -- as well as domestic budget constraints -- Obama said yesterday the U.S. is moving beyond the kind of direct financial assistance its provided in the past. Instead, he said he wanted to promote a new model that focuses on Africa's "capacity to solve problems."
[h=2]Partnership Model[/h]The power initiative follows the public-private partnership model and builds on his administration's efforts to enhance food security, fight malaria and attempt to eradicate the spread of HIV/AIDs for Africa's next generation, he said.
Power Africa's $7 billion in government assistance will complement $9 billion in private funds to double access to power in sub-Saharan Africa, where more than two-thirds of the population is without electricity, according to the White House.
During the first, five-year phase, the project's goal is to add more than 10,000 megawatts of cleaner, more efficient electric generation capacity and to expand electricity access to at least 20 million new households and commercial entities, according to the White House.
General Electric Co. (GE) is among the companies that have contributed to the $9 billion in private-sector funding for the program's first phase. It has committed to help bring 5,000 megawatts of new energy to Tanzania and Ghana.
Increasing access to power will "plug Africa into the grid of the global economy," Obama said.
[h=2]Government Resources[/h]Officials declined to put a price tag on the total effort and didn't specify how much of the $7 billion in government resources Congress would need to appropriate for the initial phase. The sum isn't all straight assistance and includes money from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Overseas Private Investment Corp., the Export-Import Bank and other agencies, they said.
"The program is welcome support to the continent where energy access and energy poverty remain significant concerns," said Taryn Wilkins, an analyst at Bloomberg New Energy Finance in Cape Town. "Key to the success of the implementation of the program is the support of local governments and policy regulation. To date this has been fragmented and inconsistent and resulted in slower development of energy infrastructure programs."
[h=2]Obama's Engagement[/h]The announcement came amid criticism that Obama's engagement with sub-Saharan Africa has lagged behind his predecessors, Bill Clintonand George W. Bush, giving China an opportunity to tap the region's resources.
Bush, who took U.S. spending on Africa to new levels, made a six-country visit in 2008 and a three-country stop in 2011 after he left the White House. His Africa legacy includes PEPFAR, a $15 billion commitment to prevent and treat AIDS infections, credited with saving or extending millions of lives.
Clinton signed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a trade agreement with countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Obama may meet his Republican predecessor while in Dar es Salaam. Bush will be there at the same time for a summit to empower Africa's first ladies, sponsored by the George W. Bush Institute. First lady Michelle Obama will join Laura Bush at the event.
To contact the reporters on this story: Julianna Goldman in Washington at jgoldman6@bloomberg.net; Margaret Talev in Washington atmtalev@bloomberg.net
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Steven Komarow at skomarow1@bloomberg.net
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/print...lan-to-boost-power-in-sub-saharan-africa.html
17 May 2013
President Barack ObamaBy Paul OhiaPresident Barack Obama of the United States is billed to begin his second tour of Africa at the end of June with visits to South Africa, Tanzania and Rwanda.He will however make a stopover in Nigeria, during which he will hold bilateral discussions with President Goodluck Jonathan and other top government officials.The initial plan for the African tour was for Obama to spend two days in Nigeria, but owing to insecurity occasioned by the terrorist activities of the Islamic militant group, Boko Haram, the plan was reviewed and he is now expected to spend a few hours or one day in the country.Sources from the presidency added that security situation during Obama's visit would be paramount and if there is any reason to doubt Nigeria's unpreparedness to host the US president, his visit to the country might be cancelled outright.Obama's maiden visit to Africa took him to Ghana in July 2009 during which he met with President John Atta Mills, now deceased, and delivered a speech at the Ghanaian parliament in addition to touring a former departing point of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the Cape Coast Castle.The non-inclusion of Nigeria on his itinerary in 2009 was widely regarded as a snub and a subtle criticism of the country's leadership, a perception, which the then Secretary of State, Mrs. Hillary Clinton, dismissed.She had said Obama's choice of Ghana was "meant to tea-up" US relationship with sub-Saharan Africa, and the choice should not be interpreted in any other way.During his visit, the two nations are expected to discuss issues centred on trade relations, security and human rights.
Tags: Featured, News, Nigeria, Obama, Rwanda, S’Africa, Tanzania
Obama to Visit S'Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, Considers Stopover in Nigeria, Articles | THISDAY LIVE
A more elaborated press release on Obama's visit of Africa, Nigeria and Rwanda omitted Senegal added
22nd May 13
Obama to unveil power supply plan for Africa
Gadiosa Lamtey
US President Barack Obama is expected to unveil a new plan for distribution of electricity in Africa during a historic two-day visit to Tanzania in early July, a US Embassy press statement issued in Dar es Salaam yesterday said.
According to the statement, President Obama and First Lady Michelle will visit Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania between June 26 and July 3.
It said President Obama's visit was principally meant to underscore the value placed by Tanzania and the United States on the need to consolidate diplomatic ties between the US and sub-Saharan Africa.
"The visit will reinforce the importance the United States places on our deep and growing ties with countries in sub-Saharan Africa," read part of the statement.
It said these ties would be developed through expansion of economic growth, investment, and trade as well as through the strengthening of democratic institutions and investing in the next generation of African leaders.
The statement added that Obama's trip would underline the US President's commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between his country and the people of sub-Saharan Africa, with a view to advancing and enhancing regional and global peace and prosperity.
While in Tanzania, President Obama is expected to meet with a wide array of leaders from government, the business sector and civil society – including youth organisations – for talks on strategic partnerships on bilateral and global issues.
Salvatory Rweyemamu, Director of Presidential Communications, earlier yesterday confirmed to the BBC from Dar es Salaam that President Obama would be in Tanzania for two days during which he would announce the new power distribution plan for Africa.
He said President Obama would be visiting Tanzania chiefly because relations between the two countries are good, adding that the visit would help strengthen ties between the two countries.
Rweyemamu also explained that President Obama's decision to visit Tanzania attested to the fact that Tanzania was moving in the right direction in terms of social, economic and political development.
"Tanzania is a good example of African countries that have attained recognition for their records in good governance and development initiatives as well as for being havens of peace on a continent plagued by violent conflicts," he noted.
He appealed to Tanzanians to demonstrate, prize and cherish patriotism and so maintain the positive image that has won the country international recognition and commendation.
Obama's visit will be his second to sub-Saharan Africa as US President and follows that of his predecessor, President George W. Bush, in February 2008 that witnessed the signing of the five-year $698 million Millennium Challenge Compact.
That was by far the largest project, in monetary terms, to have been signed in the history of the Millennium Challenge Corporation.
Analysts say that, with former President Bill Clinton also having visited Africa during his second term in office, such high-profile trips are common for US presidents after they are relieved of the pressure of domestic campaigning and leadership. They add, though, that it is especially noteworthy that three consecutive US presidents have graced Tanzania with visits.
Since the signing of the Millennium Challenge Compact, the US government has provided funds to rehabilitate and expand Tanzania's strategic water, energy and road infrastructure.
THE GUARDIAN
http://www.ippmedia.com/frontend/functions/print_article.php?l=54978
24th May 13
Obama to pump in $800m during visit to Tanzania
Correspondent Mtei David
US President Barack Obama's visit to Tanzania next month will be accompanied with a windfall as he will bring with him USD800m to support implementation of the Millennium Development Goals in the East African country.
Briefing the African Diplomatic Corps and the press yesterday, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation minister Bernard Membe said the US support will be channelled into water, roads and education projects.
In his entourage, the seond to the continent sicne he came to power, President Obama will be accompanied by his family and close to 700 delegates comprising CEOs of various companies, the minister said.
The American head of businesses are expected to explore venture opportunities in the areas of energy in what has been termed as "Power Africa"-- President Obama's visiting agenda.
Membe called upon the Tanzanian business community to get ready to grab the business opportunities that will be brought by the entourage.
Tanzania is expected to host President Barack Obama of the United States in what is considered to be the biggest visit ever on July 1 to 2, this year. Prior to visiting Tanzania, the US president will tour Senegal and South Africa.
According to a statement issued by the White House earlier this week, the visit embarks the US' "commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between the Noth American country and the people of sub-Saharan Africa."
Minister Membe noted that Obama's visit will almost coincide with the Smart Partnership Dialogue to be hosted in Dar es Salaam on June 28 through July 1, this year.
The theme of this year's Dialogue is "Leveraging Technology for Africa's Socio-economic Transformation: The Smart Partnership War".
Important dignitaries from all over the world are expected to attend the Dialogue, including former US President George W. Bush and his wife Laura Bush, said Minister Membe, adding that the main agenda of President's Obama's visit is "Power Africa".
Energy sector is vital in the economic development of the Africa Continent and this visit is earmarked to highlight power and energy conservation among African nations.
On that, President Obama is expected to host a businessmen forum that will bring together groups from various development sectors from both countries. In another development, Minister Membe briefed pressmen about the African Union's Golden Jubilee celebrations, slated for this Saturday at Karimjee Grounds in Dar es Salaam.
Detailing the programme, the Permanent Secretary John Haule said the theme for the AU's 50 years' celebration is Pan-Africanism and the African Renaissance.
Other activities will include a panel discussion on the role of AU in the struggle for African liberations and self-determination.
The press conference was also attended by ambassadors of Mozambique, Namibia, Algeria, Nigeria, Malawi, Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, Somalia and from a number of other African countries.
Dean of African Diplomatic Corps Prof Ambrosio Lukoki said the AU celebrations should not only be a jubilee but a special opportunity to reflect on where "we come from, where we are and where we are going."
"The day should be used to discuss the challenges facing the continent including, the tendency by the powerful nations to have voice over Africa," Prof Lukoki said.
THE GUARDIAN
http://www.ippmedia.com/frontend/functions/print_article.php?l=55066
Tanzania, US in funding deal
President Barack Obama meets his Tanzanian counterpart Jakaya Kikwete in the Oval office at the Whie House. In his second tour of Africa next month Mr Obama will visit three African countries, which include Tanzania, Senegal and South Africa. PHOTO | FILE
In Summary
Tanzania has been the biggest recipient of MCC for education, infrastructure and health......we expect to sign another deal soon after President Obama lands in Dar es Salaam.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is expected to sign a multi-billion shilling deal with the Millennium Challenge Corporation after US President Barack Obama arrives in the country in July, the government has confirmed.
In a press and diplomatic briefing yesterday, the minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Bernard Membe, said it was likely that Tanzania would sign a major deal with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) for funding which will be spent on education, health and road infrastructure.
Membe said the coming of President Obama to Tanzania signifies the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries under President Jakaya Kikwete. Though he said Tanzania would be representing the region, it has also invited members of the Smart Partnership to attend.
Membe's statement on regional representation captured the attention of Kenyan high commissioner Mutinda Mutiso, who asked if other East African heads of state have been invited. However, the minister was coy in his response only insisting that those who are Smart Partnership members have been sent their invitations.
"Tanzania has been the biggest recipient of MCC for education, infrastructure and health......we expect to sign another deal soon after President Obama lands in Dar es Salaam," Mr Membe said, adding: "We will hold economic discussions. He will address the issue of energy in Africa, economic development and how many people investing in the power-generation sector."
The minister said ceos would explore the importance of science and technology. He noted, however, that President Obama will also address the CEOs Roundtable. "Obama's visit will be beneficial to the whole region...in terms of investments, we expect to have a big team of CEOs from the US and their counterparts in Dar," he said.
Back to The Citizen: Tanzania, US in funding deal
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/News/-/1840392/1861210/-/view/printVersion/-/8hbtfbz/-/index.html
[h=1]Obama Unveils Plan to Boost Electric Power in Sub-Saharan Africa[/h]By Julianna Goldman and Margaret Talev - Jun 30, 2013
President Barack Obama, putting his mark on U.S. aid to Africa, announced a plan to boost access to electric power in the sub-Sahara and said America stands to benefit if the continent reaches its full economic potential.
Obama unveiled the $7 billion initiative dubbed Power Africa at the University of Cape Town in a speech that his aides billed as the centerpiece of his three-country tour through Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania to promote trade and investment on the rapidly growing continent.
The president's goal is to double access to electricity across six countries that the White House has singled out for promoting good governance -- Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria and Tanzania.
"I'm calling for America to up our game when it comes to Africa," he said. "There's no question Africa's on the move, but it's not moving fast enough for the child still languishing in poverty in forgotten townships."
American companies see growing opportunity in Africa. U.S. merchandise exports to the 49-country region were $21 billion in 2011, up 23 percent from 2010, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Imports from sub-Saharan Africa were worth $74 billion in 2011, up 14 percent from 2010. Most of that, about $60 billion, was crude oil.
Africa has 15 percent of the world's population yet it accounts for only 3 percent of energy consumption, according to a 2011 report by theAfrican Union and other organizations.
[h=2]Mandela's Health[/h]With Nelson Mandela's fragile health weighing heavily throughout the African trip, the U.S. president has invoked the anti-apartheid icon's legacy to draw the connection between democratic values and economic growth.
Obama's speech included a tribute to Mandela and he and his family toured the apartheid-era prison at Robben Island, finishing in a courtyard near Mandela's former prison cell. He then visited a community center that provides HIV education and treatment run by Archbishop Desmond Tutu's foundation.
While Africa is rising, progress is "fragile," vulnerable to "the rot of corruption" and "the undertow of conflict," Obama said in his speech.
He will travel today to Tanzania for the last stop of the three-nation tour. In the country's fast-growing metropolis of Dar es Salaam, he'll convene a roundtable of company executives and promote investments in electrification projects.
Recognizing Africa's rapid growth -- as well as domestic budget constraints -- Obama said yesterday the U.S. is moving beyond the kind of direct financial assistance its provided in the past. Instead, he said he wanted to promote a new model that focuses on Africa's "capacity to solve problems."
[h=2]Partnership Model[/h]The power initiative follows the public-private partnership model and builds on his administration's efforts to enhance food security, fight malaria and attempt to eradicate the spread of HIV/AIDs for Africa's next generation, he said.
Power Africa's $7 billion in government assistance will complement $9 billion in private funds to double access to power in sub-Saharan Africa, where more than two-thirds of the population is without electricity, according to the White House.
During the first, five-year phase, the project's goal is to add more than 10,000 megawatts of cleaner, more efficient electric generation capacity and to expand electricity access to at least 20 million new households and commercial entities, according to the White House.
General Electric Co. (GE) is among the companies that have contributed to the $9 billion in private-sector funding for the program's first phase. It has committed to help bring 5,000 megawatts of new energy to Tanzania and Ghana.
Increasing access to power will "plug Africa into the grid of the global economy," Obama said.
[h=2]Government Resources[/h]Officials declined to put a price tag on the total effort and didn't specify how much of the $7 billion in government resources Congress would need to appropriate for the initial phase. The sum isn't all straight assistance and includes money from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Overseas Private Investment Corp., the Export-Import Bank and other agencies, they said.
"The program is welcome support to the continent where energy access and energy poverty remain significant concerns," said Taryn Wilkins, an analyst at Bloomberg New Energy Finance in Cape Town. "Key to the success of the implementation of the program is the support of local governments and policy regulation. To date this has been fragmented and inconsistent and resulted in slower development of energy infrastructure programs."
[h=2]Obama's Engagement[/h]The announcement came amid criticism that Obama's engagement with sub-Saharan Africa has lagged behind his predecessors, Bill Clintonand George W. Bush, giving China an opportunity to tap the region's resources.
Bush, who took U.S. spending on Africa to new levels, made a six-country visit in 2008 and a three-country stop in 2011 after he left the White House. His Africa legacy includes PEPFAR, a $15 billion commitment to prevent and treat AIDS infections, credited with saving or extending millions of lives.
Clinton signed the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a trade agreement with countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Obama may meet his Republican predecessor while in Dar es Salaam. Bush will be there at the same time for a summit to empower Africa's first ladies, sponsored by the George W. Bush Institute. First lady Michelle Obama will join Laura Bush at the event.
To contact the reporters on this story: Julianna Goldman in Washington at jgoldman6@bloomberg.net; Margaret Talev in Washington atmtalev@bloomberg.net
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Steven Komarow at skomarow1@bloomberg.net
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/print...lan-to-boost-power-in-sub-saharan-africa.html
