WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Dr. Rajiv Shah met with a group of Young Global Leaders from Africa and several youth-focused organizations today at the World Economic Forum in Cape Town, South Africa, to discuss ways the Obama Administration can support Africa’s emerging leaders. The Forum of Young Global Leaders is a unique and diverse community of more than 700 exceptional young leaders who have been chosen in recognition of their outstanding leadership, professional accomplishments, and contributions to society.

With Africa’s large and still growing youth population expected to drive the continent’s economic growth and development in the coming decades, the Obama Administration is working to develop an enduring and productive partnership with emerging African leaders. Dr. Shah led one of several listening sessions the U.S. Government is convening with young Africans to hear about the challenges and opportunities they face and to discuss ways to empower and improve the skillset of the next generation of the continent’s leaders. The group provided important feedback on U.S. Government programs and agreed to work toward establishing an advisory relationship that will contribute key African voices and input to American efforts on the continent.

“We want to continue tapping into the leadership and creativity of the Young Global Leaders, and I hope they will take our conversation back to the broader group of Global Leaders to continue generating and contributing great ideas,” said Dr. Shah.