Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Travels to Africa

Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 30, 2012

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will travel to Africa July 31 through August 10, 2012. During this trip, the Secretary will emphasize U.S. policy commitments outlined in the Presidential Policy Directive – to strengthen democratic institutions, spur economic growth, advance peace and security as well as promote opportunity and development for all citizens

The Secretary’s first stop will be Senegal, where she will meet President Sall and other national leaders and deliver a speech applauding the resilience of Senegal’s democratic institutions and highlighting America’s approach to partnership.

Next, Secretary Clinton travels to South Sudan where she meets with President Kiir to reaffirm U.S. support and to encourage progress in negotiations with Sudan to reach agreement on issues related to security, oil and citizenship.

In Uganda, the Secretary meets with President Museveni to encourage strengthening of democratic institutions and human rights, while also reinforcing Uganda as a key U.S. partner in promoting regional security, particularly in regard to Somalia and in regional efforts to counter the Lord’s Resistance Army. She will also highlight U.S. support in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The Secretary will then travel to Kenya where she plans to meet President Kibaki, Prime Minister Odinga, and other government officials to emphasize her support for transparent, credible, nonviolent national elections in 2013. To underscore U.S. support for completing the political transition in Somalia by August 20th, Secretary Clinton will also meet with President Sheikh Sharif and other signatories to the Roadmap to End the Transition.

The Secretary continues her trip in Malawi, visiting President Banda to discuss economic and political governance and reform.

In South Africa, Secretary Clinton will pay her respects to ex-President Mandela, and to participate in the U.S.-South Africa Strategic Dialogue focusing on the partnership between our two countries in addressing issues of mutual concern and our shared challenges on the African and world stage. Secretary Clinton will be accompanied by a U.S. business delegation.

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Statement by Secretary Clinton on Moroccan National Day

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 30, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Morocco as you celebrate your national day this July 30.

This year, we mark 225 years since our two nations ratified a treaty of peace and friendship – the longest unbroken treaty in United States history. Together, we are working to expand trade, increase cultural and educational exchanges, and strengthen security in the region. This relationship will continue to strengthen as we work toward our common goals.

Congratulations on this special day and best wishes for a year of peace and prosperity.

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Monday, July 30, 2012

Statement by U.S. on Interim President Traore’s Return to Bamako

Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State

Washington, DC

July 27, 2012

The United States welcomes the return of interim President Dioncounda Traore to Bamako. His return represents an important step in moving Mali back onto a path leading to the restoration of a freely elected democratic government.

We support the efforts of interim President Traore, interim Prime Minister Diarra, political parties and civil society to engage in an inclusive and broad-based political dialogue that will contribute to the early restoration of a popularly elected government and that is focused on creating a stable and prosperous future for the country. We encourage all of the parties to draw on the Malian tradition of consensus, tolerance, and good will to form an effective unity government by July 31, 2012, that can guide the country towards elections as soon as possible, but no later than April 2013, as called for by the Economic Community of West African States.

We reiterate the call of the international community for the dissolution of the military-led National Committee for the Restoration of Democracy (CNRDRE) and call on its members to refrain from any interference in political matters and in the work of the transitional authorities. We repeat the call on armed groups in northern Mali to renounce any connection with terrorist groups and enter into legitimate political negotiations on the basis of Mali’s territorial integrity.

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Algerian Entrepreneurs Visit the U.S. To Discuss Economic Growth Through the Creative Industries

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 27, 2012

As part of the U.S. – North Africa Partnership for Economic Opportunity (NAPEO) Creative and Cultural Economy Incubator, a delegation from Algeria visited Washington DC, Jacksonville, Santa Fe, Detroit, and New York from July 7-29. The group discussed the role of the creative sector in economic development and in building international economic and cultural partnerships between the United States, Algeria, and the Maghreb region.

The delegates met with a wide range of U.S. organizations and experts in the for-profit, government, and not-for-profit sectors. The meetings explored themes such as building the infrastructure for creative industries; promoting cultural tourism through the arts; connecting artists to global markets; supporting entrepreneurship in the creative sectors; and business education for the arts.

The members of the delegation represented the North Africa Partnership for Economic Opportunity Local Advisory Board in Algeria and included: the art director and photographer for Mizophoto.org, the graphic designer and founder of Outsiders T-Shirt Company, a teacher for the Algerian National Orchestra, the founder and director of Artissimo Art School, and the chief executive officer of BlueCorp Advertising and Marketing Agency.

The State Department supported the delegation through the International Visitor Leadership Program within the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The visit advanced the goals of the Partnership to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and exchange in the Maghreb creative industries.

The program is a collaboration of the U.S. Department of State and the Aspen Institute NAPEO Secretariat; Americans for the Arts and Creative Leaps International are co-leading the NAPEO Creative and Cultural Economy Incubator. The goals are to help develop and sustain arts and culture small-and-medium enterprises and to build a vibrant creative and cultural infrastructure through public-private sector partnerships.

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Thursday, July 26, 2012

5 African Countries to benefit from $5 Million PEPFAR Funds Through Together for Girls Partnership

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 25, 2012

On July 25th at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator Ambassador Eric Goosby announced $5 million from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) for the Together for Girls partnership to address violence against girls and boys, with a particular focus on sexual violence against girls. This funding will leverage existing PEPFAR platforms to help partner governments develop and strengthen their programmatic response to National Violence Against Children survey data.

Together for Girls (TfG) is a partnership between public, private, UN and U.S. Government agencies that addresses violence against children. Launched in 2009, the partnership brings together private sector organizations, including the Nduna Foundation, Becton, Dickinson and Company, the CDC Foundation, and Grupo ABC; five United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, UNAIDS, UNFPA, UN Women, and World Health Organization; and the U.S. Government, through the CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention and PEPFAR – which includes the United States Agency for International Development, the Centers for Disease Control, the Department of Defense and Peace Corps – in collaboration with the State Department’s Office of Global Women’s Issues. The partnership focuses on three pillars:

* Conduct national surveys to document the magnitude of violence against children;
* Support coordinated program actions at the country level in response to the data; and
* Lead global advocacy efforts to raise awareness and promote evidence-based solutions.

With support from TfG partners, National Violence Against Children Surveys have been completed in Swaziland, Tanzania, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, and are in process in Haiti, Malawi, and the Philippines. PEPFAR’s $5 million for the TfG partnership will support countries’ responses to TfG survey data by developing programs and interventions to address the underlying social determinants of sexual violence against children and better support survivors.

PEPFAR is committed to addressing the structural drivers of both violence and HIV and advancing women and girls’ health and rights in order to reduce vulnerability to HIV infection. This will contribute to the Obama Administration’s goal of an AIDS-free generation and free societies of violence so that women and men can realize their full potential.

For more information, visit:
President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (www.pepfar.gov)
Together for Girls (www.togetherforgirls.org)

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Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Statement by Secretary Clinton on Liberia National Day

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 25, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I would like to send best wishes to the people of Liberia as you celebrate your 165th anniversary of independence this July 26th.

Our two countries share a strong relationship rooted in our longstanding ties and mutual commitment to the advancement of democracy, stability and prosperity. Since the end of Liberia’s civil war in 2003, significant steps have been taken to strengthen democracy and to promote a business environment conducive to trade and investment.

As you celebrate this special day with family, friends and loved ones, know that the United States stands with you. Much work remains to be done, and the United States is committed to working with the Government of Liberia to achieve its goals and improve the lives of all Liberians.

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Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Statement by President Obama on the Death of President John Evans Atta Mills of Ghana

Office of The Press Secretary
The White House

July 24, 2012

It was with great regret that I learned of the passing of President John Evans Atta Mills of Ghana. I will always remember my trip to Ghana in 2009, and the hospitality that President Mills and the people of Ghana showed to me, Michelle, Malia, Sasha and our entire delegation. I was also pleased to host President Mills in the Oval Office earlier this year. President Mills tirelessly worked to improve the lives of the Ghanaian people. He helped promote economic growth in Ghana in the midst of challenging global circumstances and strengthened Ghana’s strong tradition of democracy. Under his leadership, the United States and Ghana deepened our partnership in the promotion of good governance and economic development. He was also a strong advocate for human rights and for the fair treatment of all Ghanaians. On behalf of the American people, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the people of Ghana, and reaffirm the deep and enduring bonds between our democracies that President Mills helped to strengthen.

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Ghanaian Political Party (PPP) Launches Washington, DC Metro Chapter

Photo Courtesy of Bernard Odjidja
Story By Frederick Nnoma-Addison

Monday July 23, 2012

The Presidential Candidate of Ghana’s Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom yesterday launched the Washington, DC Metro Chapter of his party during a town hall and book signing event held outside Washington, DC in Arlington, Virginia. The forum was attended by party members and friends. Addressing the attendees, Dr. Nduom presented his party’s agenda and pitched it as the better alternative to both the incumbent National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the lead opposition party, New Patriotic Party (NPP). After the event Dr. Nduom signed and presented copies of his new book “Where I Stand: A collection of Speeches and Newspaper Articles” to the attendees.

In an interview with him earlier this year in January Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom raised the bar for democracy in Ghana by challenging Ghanaians to “aspire for an American or European standard of democracy instead of an African standard.” The influential statesman, politician & entrepreneur who has a very competitive resume from the United said that he expects more from Ghanaians and will not settle for mediocrity even as the nation prepares for presidential and parliamentary elections in December this year. “This year’s elections will be keenly contested; it will set new standards, test our democratic resolve and be another defining moment in our history, and I urge all Ghanaians to demand high standards from government officials and each other…I don’t have to organize a political party at this time but I chose to do so because it has merits for Ghana and our democratic process. Despite my commitments to my expansive business enterprises I will still devote time and resources to help promote our multi party democracy and our nation.”

As the 2006 Minister of State and primary technical expert who helped Ghana secure and appropriate a $547 million grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation in the United States, he stressed the importance of Ghana-U.S. relations and said that both Ghana and the United States need to review their bilateral relations and determine the direction of the new phase, in view of new players like China. “Our formal, intergovernmental relationship needs greater understanding. I think that America must redefine its friendship with Ghana since Ghana is of strategic importance to the United States…On an individual basis U.S.-Ghana relations is thriving, Ghanaians are as much a part of American society as are Americans. The relations that individuals have in either country must end up opening doors for individuals and communities both in America and Ghana, like it did for me personally when I first came to the United States on an American Field Service (AFS) year-long scholarship in the 70’s, prior to my secondary school education in Ghana.”

Papa Kwesi Nduom was born in Elmina, Central Region of Ghana. He attended St. Augustine’s College (secondary school) in Ghana and returned to the United States for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics (1975), a Master’s degree in Management (1977) and a Ph.D (Service Delivery Systems) in 1982, all from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He started work as a life insurance underwriter with the North Western Mutual Life Insurance Company between 1975 and 1978. The following year he worked with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin. In 1979, he joined the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District as a Budget and Management Analyst and then joined Deloitte and Touche as an associate consultant in 1981, rising to become a partner in the Milwaukee office of the firm by 1986 before being transferred to Washington, DC. Nduom eventually returned to Ghana via a consulting assignment with the Ashanti Gold Company. In 1992, he helped establish Deloitte & Touche, Ghana and consequently in West Africa and retired as the board chairman for the Africa region.

During President Kufuor’s administration (2001-2009) Dr. Nduom served as Energy and Public Sector Reform minister between 2001 and 2007 and oversaw Ghana’s contract with Kosmos Energy, a U.S. oil and gas exploration firm at the helm of oil drilling in Ghana. In 2008, he was nominated to become the Convention People’s Party’s (CPP) nominee for the presidential election. Asked why he continues to pursue political ambitions when he got an insignificant percentage of votes during the 2008 presidential elections, he explained that public service still remains one of the best platforms to make a positive impact in the lives of millions of people.
Today, through a consortium of private business enterprises, he provides gainful employment for at least 2000 Ghanaians among several other opportunities and continues to be an advocate for a prosperous and developing Ghana, worth living in. “My ultimate goal is to help establish an entrepreneurial culture in Ghana and my companies in all 10 regions of the country is the evidence.”

After failing to clinch the CPP flag bearership at the beginning of this year, Dr. Nduom broke away from the party he had significantly contributed to and help establish, and founded the newest political party in Ghana, the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) to continue making an impact politically. Nduom is married to Mrs. Yvonne Nduom, a management specialist and graduate of the Cape Coast University in Ghana and the University of Wisconsin. Together they have four children.

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Monday, July 23, 2012

NSC Spokesman Tommy Vietor’s Statement On Michael Froman’s Trip to Sub-Saharan Africa

Office of the Press Secretary
The White House

July 21, 2012

Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economic Affairs Michael Froman led a high level delegation consisting of senior Administration officials from the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Agency for International Development, USTR, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, the Department of State and the National Security Staff to sub-saharan Africa from July 11 – 20. The trip included stops in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Nairobi, Kenya; and Abuja, Nigeria. At each stop the delegation met with a cross section of government officials, private sector leaders and young entrepreneurs to push forward on a range of issues and initiatives including: the Partnership for Growth, the East African Community trade and investment partnership, the New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition, the National Export Initiative, the Young African Leaders Initiative as well as energy generation, transmission and distribution and infrastructure development. This trip comes on the heels of the launch of the U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa, and was focused on steps to accelerate efforts to enhance U.S. Government collaboration with our African partners to promote increased investment, build the capacity of Africa’s economic institutions, and drive sustained economic growth and poverty alleviation in the region.

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Saturday, July 21, 2012

Teachers From Egypt Take Part In U.S. Department of State’s Teachers of Critical Languages Program

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 20, 2012

Twenty four teachers from China and Egypt have arrived in the U.S. to teach Mandarin and Arabic in U.S. elementary and secondary schools. They are participating in the Department of State’s Teachers of Critical Languages Program. Their program, sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, begins in Washington, D.C. July 23 with a two-week orientation session introducing the teachers to U.S. educational issues and teaching practices.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs Meghann Curtis will welcome the group at the Department of State on July 24th. She will be joined by the President of American Councils for International Education Dan Davidson.

Launched in 2006, the Teachers of Critical Languages Program has brought more than 150 international teachers to over 85 U.S. host schools in 33 U.S. states. The program brings teachers from China and Egypt to eligible U.S. elementary and secondary schools to teach Chinese and Arabic for an academic year. American students benefit from having native Chinese and Arabic speakers in the classroom and from a broadened curriculum in these critical foreign languages. The international teachers experience American society and return to their home countries with a better understanding of American culture and values.

The program is implemented by American Councils for International Education (http://www.americancouncils.org).

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs promotes international mutual understanding through a wide range of academic, cultural, private-sector, professional and sports exchange programs. These international exchanges engage youth, students, educators, artists, athletes and emerging leaders in many fields in the United States and in more than 160 countries. Alumni of ECA exchanges comprise over one million people around the world, including more than 50 Nobel Laureates and more than 350 current or former heads of state and government.

For more information on the Teachers of Critical Languages Program, visit: http://exchanges.state.gov/globalexchanges/teachers-of-critical-languages-program.html.

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Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Statement by President and Mrs. Obama on Nelson Mandela International Day

 Office of the Press Secretary
The White House

July 17, 2012

On behalf of the people of the United States, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Nelson Mandela on the occasion of his 94th birthday and the fourth annual Nelson Mandela International Day.  Mandela’s extraordinary life and steadfast commitment to the principles of democracy and reconciliation continues to be a beacon for people of all backgrounds who strive for dignity, justice, and freedom. 

Nelson Mandela’s personal story is one of unbreakable will, unwavering integrity, and abiding humility.  On a personal note, our family has been inspired by Madiba’s example, and has deeply appreciated the time we have spent with him, and his wisdom, grace and generosity of spirit.  By any measure, Nelson Mandela has changed the arc of history, transforming his country, continent, and the world.

In 2009, the United States joined 192 United Nations member states in the creation of Nelson Mandela International Day.  On this important occasion, we honor Madiba’s commitment to service and the betterment of our communities.  There is no more fitting tribute to a man who has demonstrated to the world the extraordinary power of non-violence, of tolerance, and of unwavering service to our fellow men and women.

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Monday, July 16, 2012

Former President Clinton Takes Week-Long Working Visit To Africa

The Clinton Foundation
Monday July 16, 2012

President Clinton is beginning his week-long trip through Africa to visit some of the Clinton Foundation projects that you help make possible – projects that are strengthening health systems and expanding access to lifesaving treatments for HIV/AIDS and malaria; enabling sustainable development for families and communities; helping cities combat climate change through alternative waste management and clean transportation programs; and preserving and regrowing Africa’s forests. Follow his trip on the Foundation’s new blog, Clinton Foundation.

Each country, city, and village that President Clinton is visiting has its own unique story, its own challenges and its own opportunities. And each has hope that, with a hand up from the global community, they can lift themselves out of poverty and share in the positive benefits of our global interdependence.

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Secretary Clinton Speaks To Egyptian Women Leaders

U.S. Ambassador’s Residence
Cairo, Egypt


July 15, 2012

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, first let me say how pleased I am to have this opportunity to visit with some longtime acquaintances and people I’ve known and people that I’ve met recently, and some new faces, to talk about the way forward here in Egypt. I just had a lengthy meeting with a group of Christian leaders who had many issues that they wanted to raise directly with me. And I came to Cairo in part to send a very clear message that the United States supports the rights – the universal rights – of all people.

And we support democracy, but democracy has to mean more than just elections. It has to mean that the majority will be protecting the rights of the minority. And here in Egypt, we are committed to protecting and advancing the rights of all Egyptians – men and women, Muslim and Christian. Everyone who is a citizen of Egypt deserves the same rights under the law. And I conveyed this to President Morsi in our meeting yesterday, that we’re going to look to any elected government to support inclusivity, to make sure that the talents of every Egyptian can be put to work in building a new future for this ancient and incredibly important country, and that we are also going to be looking to the government to respect the rights, and as the new constitution is written, to enshrine those rights in it.

Egyptians have sacrificed so much to get to this moment. And we think a strong, durable democracy that respects the rule of law, that protects the rights of all, is the best way forward for Egyptians to realize your aspirations and to meet your own goals for development. So today, now I have the opportunity to meet with a group of women who are active in Egypt in many different venues, on many different issues. And I’m looking forward to this conversation because I don’t think there’s any substitute to hearing firsthand what is on people’s minds and also what the United States can do to be a better partner as Egypt makes its transition to real democracy.

Thank you all very much.

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Remarks By Secretary Clinton and Egyptian Foreign Minister Amr


Thursday, July 12, 2012

Ambassador Johnnie Carson To Attend 2012 AU Summit

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 12, 2012

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Johnnie Carson will lead the U.S. delegation to the 2012 African Union Summit in Addis Ababa from July 13-17. Also accompanying Assistant Secretary Carson are Special Representative for Somalia Ambassador James Swan, the Senior Advisor on Darfur Ambassador Dane Smith, and the Global AIDS Coordinator Ambassador Eric Goosby.

Learn more about the activities of the Bureau of African Affairs at the Department of State at: http://www.state.gov/p/af/index.htm. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter at: http://www.facebook.com/DOSAfricanAffairs and http://twitter.com/#!/AFAsstSecy.

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Statement by Secretary Clinton on Sao Tome and Principe National Day

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 11, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to congratulate the people of Sao Tome and Principe on the 37th anniversary of your independence this July 12. The United States stands with you as you continue to strengthen democratic governance and economic development. We appreciate your steadfast support for regional security and stability in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.

As you celebrate this special day, know that the United States is a partner and friend. We look forward to working together for a brighter future for both our people.

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Tuesday, July 10, 2012

U.S. State Department Announces Soccer Envoy Program in Ethiopia

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 10, 2012

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and US Soccer announced today that they will send Tony Sanneh and Kate Markgraf to Ethiopia July 11-15, 2012. Former men’s national team member and Major League Soccer (MLS) player Sanneh and former women’s national team member Markgraf will participate in a U.S. government exchange program that brings people together for greater understanding through sports.

The envoys will be at work in the eastern Ethiopian city of Dire Dawa, where they will head the soccer portion of a four-day Youth Culture, Sport and Friendship Camp sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa. This camp, organized together with the Ethio-Italy Technical College, The Dire Dawa Mayor’s Office, The Dire Dawa Sports Commission and the Dire Dawa Police Commission, is aimed at exchanging cultural traditions and promoting healthy living through sport and education. The envoys will work with young men and women, ages 13 – 20.

Sport Envoys are current and retired professional athletes and coaches from a range of sports that travel overseas to conduct drills, lead teambuilding sessions, and engage youth in a dialogue on the importance of education, health, and respect for diversity. In partnership with SportsUnited, US Soccer players, coaches and administrators have visited over 18 countries since 2006. The athletes have offered soccer clinics for thousands of boys, girls, and coaches.

SportsUnited is the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ premier sports exchange program at the U.S. Department of State. Athletes and coaches from a range of sports are chosen to conduct clinics, visit schools, and engage with youth overseas in a dialogue on the importance of an education, positive health practices, and respect for diversity. Since 2003, SportsUnited has brought nearly 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to the U.S. to participate in Sport Visitor programs. Since 2005, SportsUnited has sent over 220 U.S. athletes to more than 50 countries to participate in Sport Envoy programs.

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Monday, July 9, 2012

State Department Holds Technology Boot Camp For West African Entrepreneurs

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 9, 2012

On July 10, the Department will welcome over 100 young West African technology entrepreneurs from eight nations to a Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) Startup Boot Camp in Dakar, Senegal. The GIST initiative forges links at the individual and institutional levels among technology entrepreneurs, angel investors, and the marketplace to improve quality of life through economic prosperity.

GIST boot camps provide individualized mentorship for the participants and entrepreneurship “how to” training through presentations and panel discussions. The boot camp will culminate in a Startup Pitch Competition with the winner joining the October GIST Entrepreneurship Delegation that will bring top GIST technology entrepreneurs from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia to meet with entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers in Silicon Valley, Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.

In Africa, GIST is powered by LIONS@FRICA, a Department of State public-private partnership that shares the GIST mission to create economic opportunity through innovation and entrepreneurship. More information can be found at http://www.gistinitiative.org and http://www.meetthelions.org.

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Carter Center Congratulates Libyans for Holding Historic Elections

Atlanta, GA
July 9, 2012

The July 7 elections provided Libyans an historic opportunity to vote in meaningful national polls for the first time in almost six decades. The Carter Center was honored to be invited to observe the elections, and congratulates the Libyan people, the High National Elections Commission (HNEC), and the National Transitional Council (NTC) for their dedication and efforts to support Libya’s democratic transition.
The holding of the elections represents a remarkable achievement of which Libyans are rightly proud. Despite the country’s inexperience with elections, and the creation of the HNEC only in January 2012, the election commission effectively conducted the polls in a politically sensitive and potentially volatile environment. Libyan voters and polling staff on election day demonstrated dedication and enthusiasm to a successful democratic transition.

“On behalf of The Carter Center,” said former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, “I thank the Libyan people and the transitional authorities for the warm welcome and cooperation extended to our observers during Saturday’s national elections. We are deeply moved and inspired by the demonstration of national determination to build a new Libya, free of tyranny and able to join at last the family of democratic nations in the quest for freedom, dignity, and justice for all people.”

The tabulation process is complex and will take time to complete. While tabulation continues, The Carter Center encourages Libyans to be patient for the HNEC to release preliminary results.

Following an invitation from the HNEC, The Carter Center conducted a limited election observation mission, accrediting 45 observers from 21 countries and deploying 16 teams of observers on election day. A core team arrived in May, and was followed by medium- and short-term observers in June and July to assess electoral preparations and polling and counting.

Security considerations prevented the deployment of observers in some areas of the country and restricted their movements in others. The Center’s assessment is therefore limited in nature and does not offer a comprehensive assessment of the credibility of Libya’s electoral process as a whole. The Center shares its findings and analysis with the HNEC and the public in a spirit of cooperation to enhance the quality of future elections and in support of a successful democratic transition. The Center will release a comprehensive report on its electoral observations and assessments later this year, and looks forward to a constructive and open dialogue with the Libyan people and the authorities.

On election day, Carter Center observers visited more than 160 polling stations in 11 of 13 electoral districts, including teams in Ajdabiya, Al Bayda, Az Zuwiya, Guriyan, Khoms, Benghazi, Sebha, Subrata, Tobruk, Tripoli, and Zuwara.

The NTC established an ambitious schedule for the elections, which the HNEC strived to meet. Training and the promulgation of regulations were affected by the compressed time frame; some training of polling staff was incomplete and important aspects of the legal framework were only finalized in the days before the elections.

Despite these challenges, materials were delivered in a timely manner to nearly all locations. In areas visited by Carter Center observers, voting was orderly and polling stations were well managed and efficient. Polling staff appeared well trained and enthusiastically conducted the elections in a neutral and professional manner.

The commission made extraordinary efforts to conduct polling in all locations despite security incidents in the immediate election period and on election day. Attacks on HNEC district headquarters in Benghazi, Tobruk, Ajdabiya, and on a military helicopter used by HNEC to deliver election materials, resulted in one death. These incidents, coupled with attacks against polling stations in Benghazi, Ghemenis, and Ajdabiya on election day, marred the process in these areas. Nevertheless, the commission was able to replace damaged materials, and more than 94 percent of polling centers opened the morning of the elections. Additional centers were opened later and on the following day.

Voters appeared determined to defy these efforts to derail the elections and to participate by casting their ballots. At polling centers elsewhere in the country that were visited by Carter Center observers the atmosphere was calm, with voters patiently queuing and in many cases celebrating their right to cast ballots.

The rapid growth of domestic observer organizations was encouraging. Libyan observers monitored the process in 75 percent of the polling sites visited by Carter Center observers. More than 10,000 political entity and individual candidate representatives registered to observe the elections. As the democratic system and political parties mature, the Center encourages party agents and domestic observers to play a more effective role in observing elections in order to provide an important check on polling operations and increase the transparency and credibility of the vote.

The Center offers the following recommendations to be considered for future elections:

· Consolidate the electoral law to include polling, counting, and tabulation procedures, as well as all other important aspects of the legal framework.
· Encourage consensus building of Libya’s diverse population to ensure an inclusive electoral system and fair representation for all its citizens.
· Enhance the work of the HNEC and Ministries of Interior and Defense to coordinate formal election security and develop robust security plans.
· Develop electoral dispute resolution procedures and judicial bodies to provide for a timely and effective remedy to challenges and appeals by voters and candidates.
· In drafting a new constitution and in future elections, allow adequate time for preparations, deliberation, and public consultation.
· Apply important lessons learned during the General National Congress elections to future electoral activities and in support of Libya’s continued democratic development.

These recommendations are elaborated in the Carter Center’s full preliminary statement, available at www.cartercenter.org.

The Carter Center assessment of the electoral process is made against the interim constitutional declaration, Libya’s election laws and regulations, and the country’s international commitments regarding democratic elections and political participation. The Carter Center received formal accreditation from the HNEC in May 2012 and has been welcomed by representatives of the NTC, political entities, and civil society. The Center is nonpartisan and conducts its activities in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation, adopted at the United Nations in 2005.

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Statement by Secretary Clinton on The Republic of South Sudan’s Independence Day

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 8, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of the Republic of South Sudan as you celebrate your first anniversary of independence this July 9.

South Sudan has been hard at work over the past year building governing structures and a foundational legal framework. Your work to provide security, accountability and systemic respect for human rights is admirable.

Despite the progress, significant challenges remain that threaten stability and prosperity. Conflict and unresolved issues with Sudan and domestic inter-ethnic tensions have led to increased fighting and economic hardship, which threatens to compromise the very foundation on which South Sudan’s future will be built.

There are many challenges, but the South Sudanese people have repeatedly demonstrated their capacity to overcome great odds. We are hopeful that this new beginning for the people of South Sudan will continue to be used as an opportunity to build a nation that embodies the values and aspirations of its people, and that South Sudan can emerge from the shadows of conflict and turmoil. The United States remains committed to helping South Sudan meet the challenges it faces and build a free, democratic and inclusive society—one that is at peace both internally and with its neighbors.

The strong ties between the people of our two nations go back many decades, and we are committed to building upon this partnership in the years to come. Congratulations and best wishes on this historic day.

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Sunday, July 8, 2012

Statement by President Obama on Elections In Libya

Office of the Press Secretary
The White House
Washington, DC

July 7, 2012

On behalf of the American people, I extend my congratulations to the people of Libya for another milestone on their extraordinary transition to democracy. After more than 40 years in which Libya was in the grip of a dictator, today’s historic election underscores that the future of Libya is in the hands of the Libyan people. Across Libya today, voters turned out to exercise their hard-earned freedoms, most participating in an election for the first time in their lives. They cast ballots for representatives of a National Congress that will lead the next stage of Libya’s transition.

The United States is proud of the role that we played in supporting the Libyan revolution and protecting the Libyan people, and we look forward to working closely with the new Libya – including the elected Congress and Libya’s new leaders. We will engage as partners as the Libyan people work to build open and transparent institutions, establish security and the rule of law, advance opportunity, and promote unity and national reconciliation. There are still difficult challenges ahead and voting needs to be completed in some areas. As they begin this new chapter, the Libyan people can count on the continued friendship and support of the United States.

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Statement by Secretary Clinton on Malawi National Day

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 6, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Malawi on the 48th anniversary of your independence this July 6.

Over recent months, Malawi has demonstrated an impressive commitment to the rule of law and democracy. President Banda is leading Malawi towards a bright future, and the United States is pleased to be a partner with Malawi as we work to strengthen health, education, agriculture, energy, and environmental projects. I am especially pleased that new steps have been taken to create an environment in which we could reinstate our partnership through the Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact.

As you celebrate your independence, know that the government and people of the United States stand with you. I look forward to continuing to broaden and deepen this partnership. We are committed to this relationship and to improving the future for both our people.

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Tuesday, July 3, 2012

State Department Announces Winners of Apps4Africa Contest – Southern Africa Region

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC

July 3, 2012

The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce the Southern Africa winners of the Apps4Africa: Climate Challenge, a regional competition to address local climate change challenges through the development of web-based and mobile applications. Marieme Jamme, CEO of private sector partner SpotOne Global Solutions, announced the winners on June 15 at the annual Africa Gathering event in London, England.

First place was awarded to MyHealth, a mobile application developed by a team from Botswana. MyHealth provides climate information, early warning alerts, and health monitoring features to its users to help them adapt to shifting patterns of disease and other health emergencies as the climate changes. Second place was awarded to Service Anti-Cyclone, which alerts users in Madagascar to pending cyclones, and collects data on cyclone patterns and impacts, including injuries, deaths, and property damage caused by storms. The application will also provide information to help communities prepare for future cyclones. Third place was awarded to unsApp, a web forum for improving food security in Zimbabwe where users can access climate change information and adaptive management techniques that match the needs and customs of their communities.

Through programs such as Apps4Africa and the global Adaptation Partnership, the United States is working with partners to bring together practitioners, policy-makers, and African technology innovators in order to highlight country-driven solutions to climate change adaptation in Africa.

The Apps4Africa: Climate Challenge consisted of three African regional competitions. Winners from the West and Central Africa contest were announced in December, and winners from the East Africa competition were announced in January. These contests built on the outcomes of regional climate change adaptation workshops organized by the Adaptation Partnership, which includes the United States and more than 20 other countries.

Winners will receive cash prizes. Private partners, including TED and Indigo Trust, are contributing follow-on support.

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