Asst. Sec. Thomas-Greenfield to Travel to Namibia, Lesotho, and South Africa

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 25, 2016

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield will travel to France, Namibia, Lesotho, and South Africa from October 26-November 5.

In Paris, France from October 26-27, the Assistant Secretary will attend a ministerial conference on peacekeeping in French-speaking countries.

In Windhoek, Namibia from October 28-November 1, the Assistant Secretary will meet with Namibian President Hage Geingob, Peace Corps Volunteers, and Mandela Washington Fellows from the President’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI).

The Assistant Secretary will then travel to Maseru, Lesotho from November 1- 2 to recognize 50 years of our bilateral partnership. During her visit she will meet with government officials, prominent Basotho women, Mandela Washington Fellows, and visit a health clinic supported by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) through its first Lesotho Compact and by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

The Assistant Secretary will then continue on to Pretoria, South Africa. On November 3, she will join Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Thomas Shannon, and Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region of Africa, Thomas Perriello, to meet with senior South African officials for the periodic Working Group on Africa and Global Issues, which advances the longstanding strategic dialogue between the United States and South Africa.

Be sure to follow the Assistant Secretary on Twitter @StateAfrica for more updates throughout her trip.

U.S. Issues Statement on Attacks in Kenya and Somalia

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2016

Statement by NSC Spokesperson Ned Price on Attacks in Kenya and Somalia

The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack on a guest house in Mandera, Kenya, which killed approximately 12 people today as well as other recent attacks in Northeast Kenya and Somalia, including the attack on Djiboutian forces in the African Union Mission in Somalia. We express our deep sympathies to the victims and their families. The United States continues to stand with the people of Kenya and Somalia as they work to strengthen their security and expand opportunity for all citizens. We will continue to work in partnership with regional governments and AMISOM to deliver a lasting defeat to terrorist groups that seek to undermine regional stability.

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Under Sec. Sewall Travels to Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 24, 2016

Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Sarah Sewall will travel to Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon October 25 – November 3, 2016. The trip will focus on a range of issues related to civilian security, with an emphasis on the fight against Boko Haram, countering violent extremism more broadly, and the dire humanitarian and stabilization needs in the Lake Chad Basin region.

The Under Secretary will travel to Nigeria to meet with representatives from government, civil society, and the international community to raise urgent humanitarian and stabilization challenges, along with the need for a political resolution to the ongoing crisis in the Niger Delta region. She will also meet with women and girls who had been captured by Boko Haram to learn about their unique challenges returning and reintegrating into society. In addition, the Under Secretary will meet with inter-faith and civil society leaders about their role in countering corruption, refuting violent ideologies, and reducing religious and communal tensions.

The Under Secretary will also travel to Chad to meet representatives from government, civil society and the United Nations to discuss Boko Haram, associated humanitarian challenges, and countering violent extremism more broadly.

Under Secretary Sewall will then travel to Cameroon. In Yaoundé, she will meet with government officials, U.N. agencies, and civil society groups to discuss challenges posed by Boko Haram, strategies for addressing drivers of violent extremism, and the humanitarian crisis.

U.S. Issues Statement on ICC Judgment in Central African Republic

Photo: ICC Twitter page

ICC Judgment in Bemba et al. Witness Tampering Case

Press Statement
John Kirby
Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 22, 2016

The United States welcomes the delivery of this week’s verdict by a panel of judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC), which found Jean-Pierre Bemba and four associates guilty of offenses against the administration of justice.

These five individuals were found to have corruptly influenced defense witnesses in connection with Bemba’s separate ICC trial, in which he was convicted of atrocities committed by a Congolese militia under his command in the Central African Republic.

Witness tampering—including intimidation and violence against witnesses testifying for the prosecution and the defense —remains a critical vulnerability for efforts all over the world to establish the truth aboutatrocities and promote justice for the victims. When threats emerge to the integrity of such proceedings, we encourage national authorities to take steps to address them and hold those who are responsible to account.

The United States is committed to working as appropriate with governments, tribunals, and other actors to better ensure that those who have the courage to share their testimony about mass atrocities are not made victims a second time for doing so. Witness intimidation must not become a pathway to impunity.

MCC Issues Statement on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

October 17, 2016

The Power to Reduce Poverty

Today, on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, MCC reflects on our mission to reduce poverty through economic growth. Since our founding in 2004, MCC has invested more than $11 billion toward lifting people out of poverty around the world.

What’s more, according to recently released World Bank poverty data, the number of people living in extreme poverty decreased by 114 million people between 2012 and 2013. And between 2008 and 2013, 20 of 28 MCC compact countries saw a decrease in extreme poverty by an average of more than six percentage points.

Increasing access to electricity is key to reducing poverty. That’s why MCC is investing in energy across West Africa and supports the goals of the U.S. Government’s Power Africa effort. MCC has committed approximately $1.5 billion to increasing access to electricity through compacts and threshold programs to improve the quality and reliability of electricity.

Over the next two weeks, MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde is traveling to four partner countries — Benin, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Ghana — to see MCC’s power investments. Access to reliable power makes communities healthier, helps kids learn, and connects countries to the global economy.

We invite you to follow along with our CEO’s journey on the trip site, and on Twitter using #MCCPoweringAfrica, as she highlights MCC’s role in powering Africa and fighting poverty.

U.S. Issues Statement on Susan Rice’s Meeting with Nigerian Governors

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 19, 2016

Statement by National Security Council Spokesperson Ned Price on National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice’s Meeting with Nigerian Governors

National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice met today with a group of governors representing states in Nigeria’s north and middle belt to discuss issues of strategic significance to the United States and Nigeria. They discussed the importance of strong and inclusive governance as the region works to confront security threats, including from Boko Haram—now known as ISIL’s West Africa Province—and from clashes among ethnic, religious, and other groups in Nigeria. They also discussed how to strengthen collaboration on a faster and more effective response to the humanitarian crisis in northeast Nigeria as well as the importance of meeting the needs of the internally displaced and their host-communities. Finally, the group exchanged ideas for strengthening Nigeria’s economy and creating educational and employment opportunities for the millions of young people eager to contribute to the region’s growth. Ambassador Rice underscored the United States’ strong partnership with Nigeria at every level of government and deep and longstanding support for the Nigerian people.

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U.S. Delegation Attends Inauguration of Cabo Verde’s President Jorge Carlos Fonseca

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 2016

President Obama Announces Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Cabo Verde to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Jorge Carlos Fonseca, President of the Republic of Cabo Verde

President Barack Obama today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Cabo Verde to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Jorge Carlos Fonseca, President of the Republic of Cabo Verde on October 20, 2016 in Praia, Cabo Verde.

The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Department of State, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation:

The Honorable Donald L. Heflin, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Cabo Verde, Department of State

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Government of Morocco Hosts pre-COP 22 Session

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 14, 2016

U.S. Special Envoy for Climate Change Dr. Jonathan Pershing will travel October 16-20 to Marrakesh, Morocco to participate in an informal ‘pre-COP’ meeting hosted by the Government of Morocco. The pre-COP is the last preparatory session in advance of the 22nd Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), also known as COP-22. The Government of Morocco will serve as the Presidency and host of COP-22 in Marrakesh, which will take place on November 7-18, the first such meeting since the historic adoption of the Paris Agreement by all nations at COP-21 in Paris, France, in December of last year.

Last week, the Paris Agreement officially surpassed the thresholds necessary for it to enter into force less than one year after it was adopted, sending a powerful signal to world markets that we are moving towards a low-emissions economy with unprecedented resolve. COP-22, dubbed the “COP of Implementation and Action” by the Government of Morocco, will highlight major climate successes achieved this year and showcase global action as nations turn toward implementation of the Paris Agreement. COP-22 will provide a forum for actors at all levels to come together, share what they are doing, learn from each other and continue to encourage each other to do more.

Next week’s pre-COP meeting offers an opportunity for Special Envoy Pershing and his Ministerial counterparts to finalize preparations for COP-22 and continue to discuss implementation of the Paris Agreement and ongoing actions to advance global climate and clean energy efforts.

U.S. Special Envoy Shaarik Zafar Travels to Nigeria

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 14, 2016

Special Representative to Muslim Communities Shaarik Zafar will conduct his first official trip to sub-Saharan Africa from October 17-19, traveling to Kano and Abuja, Nigeria. During his trip, he will meet with government officials and representatives from civil society to underscore shared priorities, including promoting educational and economic opportunities and promoting accountable governance.

While in Kano, Special Representative Zafar will offer opening remarks at an inaugural workshop on anti-corruption tools for religious leaders. The workshop will address how religious communities can work together to combat corruption, promote accountability, and encourage transparency. He will also learn about the cultural and religious history of the region. In Abuja, Special Representative Zafar will meet with religious and community leaders and learn of their current challenges and opportunities.

For updates, please follow Special Representative Zafar on Twitter @SpecialRepMC or at the Office of Religion and Global Affairs’ web site.

Asst. Sec. Robinson Travels to East and Central Africa

Assistant Secretary Robinson Travels to the Central African Republic, Djibouti, Somalia, and Uganda

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 14, 2016

Assistant Secretary for Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) David Robinson will travel to to Central African Republic, Djibouti, Somalia, and Uganda from October 19 to November 1 to highlight countering violent extremism (CVE) and atrocity prevention programs.

In Djibouti, Assistant Secretary Robinson will visit the East Africa Countering Violent Extremism Center of Excellence and Counter-Messaging Hub, which is an important forum for CVE analysis and research efforts in the region. In Somalia, he will focus on regional extremist actors affecting the Horn of Africa. In the Central African Republic, he will examine efforts by the local government and international actors to mitigate the risk of atrocities and to implement a complex demobilization and reintegration plan. Ending in Uganda, he will examine best practices from the civil-military approach to countering the Lord’s Resistance Army, one of CSO’s longest missions in Africa.

More information about the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations is available at www.state.gov/j/cso. For updates, follow CSO on Twitter and Facebook.

U.S. Issues Statement on Ethiopia’s Declared State of Emergency

Press Statement
John Kirby
Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 12, 2016

The United States takes note of the Government of Ethiopia’s October 8 declaration of a State of Emergency in response to recent protests and violence in the Oromia and Amhara regions. We are troubled by the potential impact of the decision to authorize detention without a warrant and to further limit freedom of expression, including by blocking Internet access, prohibiting public gatherings, and imposing curfews. This declaration, if implemented in these ways, would further enshrine the type of response that has failed to ameliorate the recent political crisis.

Political pluralism and respect for fundamental freedoms are essential to addressing the legitimate grievances of protesters and other Ethiopians. We reiterate our longstanding call for the Government of Ethiopia to respect its citizens’ constitutionally-guaranteed freedoms of expression and association, and to release those detained for peacefully exercising those rights. Arresting and silencing independent and critical voices is self-defeating and will lead to greater polarization, and makes it harder to find a solution acceptable to all Ethiopians.

We strongly encourage everyone to refrain from committing further acts of violence in Ethiopia. Peaceful dialogue is the path to resolution of Ethiopia’s need for reform. Too many innocent lives have already been lost and too much destruction has already taken place.

We welcome President Mulatu’s October 10 address to Parliament committing the government to addressing some of these grievances – such as land rights, electoral reform, and recognition of the special interest of the Oromia region in the city of Addis Ababa. We encourage the government to act on these commitments decisively and quickly, and urge it to undertake further comprehensive reforms with the goal of opening political space and ensuring respect for fundamental freedoms and the democratic rights enshrined in the Constitution of Ethiopia. We also note the Prime Minister’s commitment that the state of emergency will not breach human rights protected by the Ethiopian constitution.

Secretary Kerry Issues Statement on Equatorial Guinea’s National Day

Department of State
Washington, DC
October 12, 2016

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I offer my warmest congratulations to the people of Equatorial Guinea as you celebrate your nation’s Independence Day, October 12. The United States values its friendship with you and looks forward to continuing our work together in pursuit of shared goals, including greater prosperity, improved governance, access to quality health care, respect for human rights, and support for the rule of law.

I wish you the very best as you gather with family and friends on this special day and extend my hopes for a safe, happy, and successful year to come.

U.S. Issues Statement on Sudan’s National Dialogue General Conference

John Kirby
Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 8, 2016

The United States notes the Government of Sudan’s intention to hold a General Conference on October 10 to review the progress made by National Dialogue participants. While we acknowledge that the conference will recognize the contributions of the different stakeholders to the National Dialogue, we believe it is equally important to strive for a representative and comprehensive national dialogue with participation from political and armed opposition, for a sustainable end to Sudan’s internal crises.

We urge the Government of Sudan to consider the current National Dialogue a first phase, and to engage with the opposition for its participation in an inclusive dialogue process, as prescribed in the Roadmap agreement negotiated by the African Union High Implementation Panel (AUHIP) which the government and opposition have signed. Conclusively ending the dialogue at this stage could seriously impede negotiations of cessations of hostilities agreements with the armed opposition and could derail the completion of the AUHIP Roadmap.

Secretary Kerry Issues Statement on Uganda’s National Day

Department of State
Washington, DC
October 7, 2016

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I offer my best wishes to the people of Uganda as you celebrate the 54th anniversary of your nation’s independence.

The friendship between our peoples is important to the United States. My government strongly supports your aspiration for further economic and social development and respect for human rights. The United States will continue to assist you in efforts to build peace and security within the region by supporting the African Union Mission in Somalia and helping to address the ongoing threat posed by the Lord’s Resistance Army.

Uganda is also known for its dedication to the well-being and empowerment of refugees seeking safety within its borders. I commend you for providing aid and hospitality to these vulnerable populations.

On this day of national celebration, I congratulate you and hope that the year to come will prove to be one of happiness, good health, and success for all.

Special Representative for Environment and Water Resources Travels to Rwanda

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 7, 2016

U.S. Special Representative for Environment and Water Resources Ambassador Jennifer Haverkamp will travel to Kigali, Rwanda, October 8-15.

In Kigali, Ambassador Haverkamp will participate in the final round of negotiations this year for the Montreal Protocol with the goal of achieving an ambitious amendment to phase down the worldwide production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases. She will lead the U.S. delegation through the preparatory sessions until the arrival of Secretary Kerry and EPA Administrator McCarthy for the high level segment.

Securing an ambitious amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase down HFCs could avoid up
to 0.5°C of warming by the end of the century, making a major contribution to the Paris Agreement goal to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C.

44 Moroccan and Liberian Girls in U.S. for Let Girls Learn Exchange Program

Photo: Michelle Obama’s Instagram

Department of State Welcomes 44 Moroccan and Liberian Girls to the United States for Let Girls Learn U.S. Exchange Program

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 7, 2016

On October 8, 44 girls and young women between the ages of 13 and 26 from Morocco and Liberia will arrive in the United States for the 2016 Let Girls Learn: U.S. Exchange Program. Launched by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama in March 2015, Let Girls Learn enables access to quality education for girls around the world. The First Lady met with the group during her trip to Liberia and Morocco in June 2016, and has invited them to celebrate the International Day of the Girl with a dialogue and a screening of the CNN documentary, We Will Rise.

The six-day exchange program, supported by the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs through a grant to Meridian International Center, represents one part of the multi-faceted Let Girls Learn initiative. In addition to the White House events, the group will also participate in a Let Girls Learn “Chat and Chai” event for intercultural exchange with American girls, attend meetings at the U.S. Department of State, participate in a Learning Lab and tour the Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum, and visit Washington area universities to meet with international students from around the world.

The girls and young women are beneficiaries of U.S. programs in Liberia and Morocco designed to empower and uplift adolescent girls.

U.S. Issues Statement on Cabo Verde’s Presidential Elections

Press Statement
John Kirby
Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs
Department of State
Washington, DC
October 6, 2016

On behalf of the people of the United States, I applaud the people of Cabo Verde for their enthusiastic and peaceful participation in the recent presidential election. These successful elections reaffirm Cabo Verde’s standing as a model of democratic values and processes in Africa.

I wish to further congratulate Cabo Verdean President Jorge Carlos Fonseca on his reelection. The United States looks forward to continue working with the government and the people of Cabo Verde in support of Cabo Verde’s prosperity through good governance, improved health and access to energy, as well as in the fight against common threats, including transnational crime and terrorism.

Susan Rice Meets with South Sudan’s First Vice President Taban Deng – Readout

Photo: AFP

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2016

Readout of National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice’s Meeting with First Vice President Taban Deng

National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice met today with the First Vice President of South Sudan Taban Deng. Ambassador Rice affirmed the Administration’s strong commitment to the people of South Sudan and expressed grave concern about the humanitarian conditions and continued fighting in many parts of the country. Ambassador Rice deplored the South Sudanese Government’s role in continually obstructing the United Nations Mission in South Sudan’s (UNMISS) operations and stressed the need for a rapid deployment of the Regional Protection Force. Ambassador Rice relayed to Deng that the United States was deeply concerned about the alleged participation of government forces in attacks against humanitarian workers at the Terrain Compound in Juba on July 11. She said that the perpetrators of the attack must be identified and held accountable and that an investigation with international support is urgently needed. Ambassador Rice underscored the need for the South Sudanese Government to engage opposition groups in dialogue and ensure that it governs inclusively, with strong participation by women and without domination by a single ethnic group or political party.

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Secretary Kerry Issues Statement on Botswana’s National Day

Department of State
Washington, DC
September 29, 2016

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people of Botswana on the 50th anniversary of your nation’s independence.

My country deeply values its friendship with your government and with all of you, a friendship based on mutual respect and responsibility.

The United States particularly commends Botswana for its love of peace, its commitment to democracy, and its steadfast leadership in environmental conservation, combating wildlife trafficking, and protecting the Okavango Delta. My government is also pleased to work with you in supporting human rights, empowering women and youth, and fighting epidemic disease including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

On this special day, the United States extends its best wishes to all the people of Botswana along with hopes for a safe and prosperous year to come.

Secretary Kerry Issues Statement on Nigeria’s National Day

Department of State
Washington, DC
September 29, 2016

On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the citizens of Nigeria as you celebrate your Independence Day on October 1.

I recently returned from my third trip to Nigeria as Secretary, and I came away with a strong sense of the nation’s resolve to build a better future. During my trip, I was reminded that many Nigerians are engaged in bringing people together across the divides of culture, religious practices, and ethnicity. There is still much work to be done to provide economic opportunities for all, end corruption, win the fight against Boko Haram, ensure broad respect for human rights and provide humanitarian relief for millions of displaced people. But we know that Nigerians are hard at work to address these challenges.

The United States looks forward to deepening our partnership and friendship with Nigerians from all walks of life, so that we may work together for the betterment of Nigeria and all of Africa.

Best wishes to all of you on this the 56th anniversary of your independence.

DC’s Mayor’s Office on African Affairs Celebrates 10th Year

Story & Pictures : DC MOAA

Highlights from MOAA’s 10th Year Celebration

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) On September 27, 2016 the Mayor’s Office on African Affairs celebrated its 10th Year Anniversary themed: A Decade of Service to the District’s African Community.
The event commemorated September as African Heritage Month, and featured traditional African dance performances and music. Mayor Muriel Bowser delivered the keynote speech and presented awards to community leaders that have strongly contributed to the socio-economic vitality of the African community in the District.

Here are some of the evenings highlights.

U.S. Issues Statement on Anniversary of Guinea Stadium Massacre

John Kirby
Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 29, 2016

Seven years ago this week, Guinea suffered a terrible tragedy when more than 150 civilians participating in peaceful demonstrations were brutally massacred and more than 100 were raped by state security forces. Since then, the Guinean people have worked to establish a more peaceful and democratic society, and to seek justice for crimes committed during the massacre. The United States commends those who have bravely spoken out about such crimes and Guinea’s efforts to hold those responsible to account. We applaud the efforts of the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict for her support to the Government of Guinea in investigating these atrocities.

We encourage the Government of Guinea to continue to make progress in the investigation of the stadium massacre, and the United States remains committed to providing support for efforts to establish justice and accountability in Guinea. Today, as tangible evidence of our commitment, the United States announced $1.4 million in additional funding to partner with the Guinean Ministry of Justice on an Atrocity Accountability and Reconciliation Project. Ensuring accountability for those who are responsible for the massacre will help prevent future outbreaks of political violence in Guinea, provide victims with a measure of justice, strengthen peace and prosperity for the Guinean people, and provide a positive example for others across the globe to emulate.

U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Avril Haines’ Meets with Egyptian Civil Society Activists

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2016

Statement by NSC Spokesperson Ned Price on Deputy National Security Advisor Avril Haines’ Meeting with Egyptian Civil Society Activists

Deputy National Security Advisor Avril Haines met yesterday at the White House with a small group of Egyptian civil society activists to hear from them about the human rights environment in Egypt. She expressed deep concern about the Egyptian government’s crackdown on independent civil society activity, including continuing legal action against nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Ms. Haines reiterated the Administration’s strong support for Egyptian NGOs and other civil society organizations, which are integral both to Egypt’s political and economic development and to its long-term stability, and reiterated the Administration’s view that the restrictions on the ability of these organizations to operate freely in Egypt should be removed.

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MCC and the Republic of Niger Celebrate Compact

MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde, right, and Kristin Penn, at rear, join President of Niger H.E. Mahamadou Issoufou and his wife, Dr. Lalla Malika Issoufou, at the compact celebration.

Photo & story credit: MCC

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, MCC and the Republic of Niger celebrated the Niger Sustainable Water and Agriculture Compact. President of Niger H.E. Mahamadou Issoufou and MCC CEO Dana J. Hyde addressed a crowd of supporters that included official members of the Niger delegation, U.S. Government partners, and stakeholder organizations in support of the compact goals.

The $437 million compact will strengthen Niger’s agricultural sector by improving access to water, infrastructure and markets, and has the potential to benefit more than 3.9 million people. Event partners included Alliance to End Hunger, Bread for the World, Catholic Relief Services, Global Citizen, ONE Campaign and World Vision. Ahead of the reception, the CEO sat down for a one-on-one interview with Thomson Reuters Foundation on the details of the compact, and she and President Issoufou were interviewed together for a Devex story, which is expected to be posted this week.

U.S. Issues Statement on ICC Judgment in Mali Cultural Destruction Case

Photo: CICC

Press Statement
Mark C. Toner
Deputy Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
September 27, 2016

The United States welcomes today’s verdict at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the case against Ahmad Al Faqi Al Mahdi, a member of the violent extremist group Ansar al-Dine. Al Faqi, who surrendered to the ICC in 2015 by Nigerien authorities and pled guilty to one charge of war crimes related to intentionally directing attacks against Muslim shrines and mausoleums in Timbuktu, was sentenced to 9 years of imprisonment.

As we have seen in Mali and other contexts, the destruction of cultural artifacts and monuments has been used as a tool to seek to terrorize, to erase history, and to eradicate the identities of communities. These are assaults not just on a country and its people, but on the common cultural heritage of all humankind, and those responsible for these acts should face justice. Secretary Kerry has underscored that such acts “are a tragedy for all civilized people, and the civilized world must take a stand.” Al Faqi’s conviction is part of broader national and international efforts to protect cultural property, and it sends an important message to those responsible for such crimes that impunity will not prevail.

The United States supports efforts by the ICC and Malian authorities to provide justice for these serious crimes committed in Mali. We commend Mali for its cooperation with the ICC in this matter, and we encourage continued national and international efforts to bring to justice senior extremist leaders who led the campaign to terrorize northern Mali and destroy symbols of its rich history of tolerance and cultural pluralism.

Ambassador David Saperstein Visits the Central African Republic

Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom David Saperstein Visits the Central African Republic

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 26, 2016

Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom David Saperstein will travel to Bangui, Central African Republic, September 27-October 3, to discuss efforts to promote religious equality, tolerance, and a peaceful resolution to conflict with government officials, religious leaders, and civil society representatives.

While in Bangui, Ambassador Saperstein will participate in a follow-up meeting to the Intra-Muslim Dialogue and Capacity-Building Conference he attended in Vienna in February 2016. He will participate in an initiative hosted by the United States Institute of Peace featuring the outcomes of dialogues to strengthen communication among citizens and government leaders on community security. In meetings with government officials he will reiterate the importance of protecting religious freedom, inclusivity of all religions in democratic space, human rights and continuing to promote reconciliation.

This is the first-ever trip by an Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom to the Central African Republic.

Follow Ambassador Saperstein on Twitter: @AmbSaperstein. For updates on the U.S. Government’s human rights work, visit www.humanrights.gov or the DRL Twitter account, @State_DRL.

Acting Asst. Sec. Judith Garber Travels to South Africa

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 26, 2016

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Judith Garber will travel to Pretoria and Johannesburg, South Africa, September 26–30, to meet with South African government officials, officials from other governments, and representatives from non-governmental organizations, and participate in the 17th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

On September 27 in Pretoria, Acting Assistant Secretary Garber will meet with the CEO of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and then participate in a presentation on its Cmore platform and U.S.-funded initiative for Joint Wildlife Crime Investigation and Analysis. During the presentation, she will learn how the Cmore platform can help reduce wildlife trafficking by improving data collection, sharing, and analysis.

Additionally, she will travel to Johannesburg on September 27 to speak at a reception co-hosted by the U.S. Mission to South Africa and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with partners, Discovery Communications and the U.S. Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, to celebrate CITES COP 17 and discuss the role of the private sector in combating illegal wildlife trade. Acting Assistant Secretary Garber will highlight U.S. assistance and cooperation with South Africa to combat wildlife trafficking and help launch a U.S. Fish and Wildlife public service announcement with Discovery Communications.

September 28-29, the Acting Assistant Secretary will speak at the Second Global Meeting of the Wildlife Enforcement Networks. She will emphasize the importance of Wildlife Enforcement Networks and the key role they play in helping combat wildlife trafficking, and the benefits the United States sees in linking together a “network of Networks.” She will also meet with government officials and representatives from non-governmental organizations in this timeframe.

Follow the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs on Twitter @StateDeptOES for updates on Acting Assistant Secretary Garber’s trip.

Asst. Sec. Thomas-Greenfield Travels to Swaziland and Botswana

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 26, 2016

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield will travel to Swaziland and Botswana September 28 – October 2.

On September 28 and 29 the Assistant Secretary will visit Mbabane, Swaziland, where she will meet with His Majesty King Mswati III. Additionally, she will conduct a site visit to a PEPFAR-sponsored mobile health and HIV unit in Matsapha.

The Assistant Secretary will lead the U.S. delegation in Gaborone September 29 and 30 at Botswana’s 50th Independence Day celebration, “Bot50.” In addition to the celebration, the Assistant Secretary will visit the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), tour a Peace Corps exhibition at the Botswana National Museum, and meet with Embassy staff.

Be sure to follow the Assistant Secretary on Twitter @StateAfrica for more updates throughout her trip.

U.S. Humanitarian Assistance for Lake Chad Basin Region

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 23, 2016

The United States announced today more than $41 million in additional humanitarian assistance to people affected by the ongoing conflict and severe food insecurity in Nigeria and throughout the Lake Chad Basin region, where more than 6 million people need emergency food assistance, and 2.6 million people are displaced.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power made the announcement at a high-level event on the humanitarian crisis in the Lake Chad Basin, on the margins of the 71st United Nations General Assembly.

With this announcement, the United States is providing more than $359 million since fiscal year 2015 to people affected by Boko Haram-related conflict and the related humanitarian crisis. The United States continues to be the single largest humanitarian donor to the region.

This new funding to United Nations and NGO partners will help tens of thousands of people receive critically needed humanitarian assistance, including food, water, shelter, and services to address acute hygiene, protection, and nutritional needs.

The United Nations estimates an additional $542 million is needed to meet the humanitarian needs of people in the region between September and December 2016. The U.S. calls on other donors to contribute additional humanitarian assistance for the millions of people in the region whose lives have been affected by Boko Haram violence.

U.S. Humanitarian Assistance for South Sudan

United States Pledges Nearly $133 Million in Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the People of South Sudan

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 22, 2016

The United States today announced nearly $133 million in new humanitarian assistance for South Sudanese refugees, who now number over one million, as well as for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan. This funding will also assist refugees who have fled to South Sudan, and others affected by the ongoing conflict. U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Gayle Smith announced the additional funding at the “High Level Side Event on South Sudan” on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This additional funding brings the total U.S. humanitarian aid for the people of South Sudan to nearly $1.9 billion since the start of the conflict in December 2013.

Aid can only be effective if it reaches the people who need it most. We demand that all parties stop attacking civilians, allow humanitarians unfettered access to those in need throughout South Sudan, and cease violations of international humanitarian law and principles. No amount of humanitarian aid will end the violence or provide lasting solutions to this man-made crisis. We call on South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize the safety and security of the citizens they represent, to restore stable environments for civilians and humanitarians, and to enable people to rebuild their lives.

More than 2.7 million people have had to flee their homes—either to other parts of South Sudan or to neighboring countries as refugees. We commend the neighboring countries that have provided asylum to the refugees—the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, and Uganda. Forty percent of South Sudan’s population is now in need of life-saving assistance, with some people on the brink of starvation. The new funding will boost emergency health services, increase access to—and the availability of—clean water and sanitation, provide psychosocial support and other services to survivors of gender-based violence, increase access to emergency education for refugee children, and build and expand new refugee camps throughout the region. Our assistance will also help feed the hungry, provide nutrition supplements for children suffering from malnutrition, and reunite families separated by the fighting. The United States encourages other donors to provide timely additional humanitarian assistance for the South Sudanese.

U.S. Humanitarian Assistance for Libya

Office of the Spokesperson
Department of State
Washington, DC
September 22, 2016

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry announced today that the United States is providing nearly $6 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the Libyan people. This funding will help address critical humanitarian needs, including aid for those displaced from Sirte. Today’s announcement brings total U.S. humanitarian assistance for Libyans to more than $121 million since FY 2012.

This contribution will support the operations of the United Nations, and other international and non-governmental organizations to help meet critical needs, including by providing food, safe drinking water, emergency medical care, hygiene kits, and basic household items to conflict-affected people in Sirte and throughout Libya.

Until recently, the coastal city of Sirte was Da’esh’s largest stronghold outside of Iraq and Syria. With U.S. and international military support, the Government of National Accord is liberating Sirte from Da’esh, whose brutality has scarred the city’s population and caused widespread suffering.

The U.S. encourages other donors to provide timely additional humanitarian assistance for Libyans in need.