Editorial
A Glimmer of Hope for Africa
If Africa exported more crops – taking up to 15 percent of AGOA exports – this would be a good thing all around. Countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda are doing something about it.
Fortunately for Africa, there’s a good man in the Executive Offices of the White House. And here, we do not mean President Obama. In fact, the man we refer to is the President’s chief trade advisor. As U.S. Trade Representative, Ambassador Michael Froman has asked for a review of the U.S – Africa trade dynamic. He is asking people to evaluate changes to fundamental things like rules of origin which have worked wonders for Africa’s textile export sector, he wants to find out what the trade relationship between South Africa and the rest of Africa means to the U.S. and to Europe; the list goes on.
As a result, trade policy people such as ourselves are rubbing our hands in glee. And these are indeed exciting times for us. Perhaps, we shall start to really influence policy and change the dynamic of Africa’s place in American minds. Or perhaps, we are being too optimistic since many do not share our enthusiasm.
The Habari Network Editorial Board
November 18, 2013
