COMMUNITY BUILDING
African Diplomatic Orientation
& Engagement Program
This unique program convenes both new and experienced African Ambassadors where they can learn from each other and sectoral experts, on how best to maximize their impact as international representatives in the United States. Launched in 2019, the Diplomatic Program has been held in Washington D.C., Houston and virtually.
AAI’s and Center for American Progress’s Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program
MAY 21, 2024 IN WASHINGTON D.C.
“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
Virtual African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program
JUNE 14-15, 2021
In partnership with the Energy Workforce & Technology Council, AAI’s 2021 African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement program convened virtually. During the program members of the African Diplomatic Corps were joined by international leaders from the energy sector and engaged in workshops ranging from “Value Chain Overview” to “Energy Services & Technology” to “U.S. International Energy Engagement & Regional Partnerships.”
“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
Energy Focused African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program
October 28-29, 2019 in Houston, Texas
In October 2019, the Africa-America Institute (AAI) convened Members of the African Diplomatic Corps from oil-producing countries in Houston, Texas, for the second convening of the African Diplomatic Orientation & Engagement Program. The convening was in partnership with the Petroleum Equipment & Services Administration (PESA). While in Houston, Members of the African Diplomatic Corps participated in workshops on topics ranging from “Life Cycles of an Exploration Project: From First Hunch to Discovery” to “Liquified Natural Gas” to “Rig Systems and Drilling Support.” During the program, Ambassadors also visited an oil rig training facility.
“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
“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.”
