A CONVERSATION WITH ALICE ALBRIGHT - For its inaugural #AroundThe2022Summit conversation, the Africa Center was thrilled to host Alice Albright, the CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), for a discussion held between the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP27) taking place on the African continent in Egypt and the US-Africa Leaders Summit held in December.

The conversation was opened by Romuald Wadagni, Minister of Economy and Finance for the Republic of Benin. This discussion looked at the future of US-Africa relations, touching upon the MCC’s priorities going forward. Topics covered in the conversation include international uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, how the MCC views the international development landscape, including the Bretton Woods regulatory reform proposed by Secretary Yellen, and how investment serves as a cornerstone of future American involvement in Africa.

Since its establishment in 2004, MCC has provided more than $15 billion in grant financing to low and lower-middle income countries across six continents. Those investments are expected to benefit nearly 215 million people. The MCC’s singular mission is to reduce poverty through economic growth as promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth is a key part of the US government’s efforts to build a stronger, more resilient global community, promote good governance and democratic values, and create new markets and opportunities for the private sector.?More than 70% of MCC’s portfolio is in Africa, translating to approximately $3.1 billion in active grant programs.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 11/18/22