A CONVERSATION WITH MARTIN FAYULU - This event featured Congolese political leader Martin Fayulu, who ran for president in 2018. It took place during a period rich in diplomatic events, between the opening of the United Nations General Assembly in September and the U.S.- Africa Leaders’ Summit in December, during a challenging period marked by the consequences of the war in Ukraine on the African continent. As one of the largest and least developed countries in Africa, the DRC – part of Secretary Blinken’s tour in early August – occupies a strategic role in the competition between global powers in a region heightened by attacks from militia groups on the eastern side of the country.

Difficulties as wide-ranging as food insecurity and the current energy crisis compounded at a time when investment opportunities abound, and global geopolitical competition strategies stress the power of engaging with the continent. Internally, the upcoming presidential elections and challenges on the domestic democratic front may also threaten the country’s future.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 09/15/22