Vice President Kamala Harris visited Ghana on March 26, 2023, as part of her first official trip to Africa, aimed at strengthening the US-Africa partnership and addressing global challenges such as COVID-19, climate change and democracy
Harris said that Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and that its young population is a source of strength and opportunity. She also praised Ghana for its democratic achievements and its role as a regional leader
Harris highlighted some of the initiatives that the US is supporting in Africa, such as the Prosper Africa Build Together campaign, which aims to increase two-way trade and investment between the US and Africa; the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership, which seeks to expand internet access and digital skills; and the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, which promotes women’s economic empowerment
Harris also announced that the US will provide an additional $50 million in humanitarian assistance to countries in West Africa affected by conflict and food insecurity, as well as $25 million to support Ghana’s COVID-19 response and vaccination efforts.
Harris urged the young audience to embrace innovation and creativity as key drivers of progress and solutions to the challenges facing their generation. She cited examples of African innovators who have developed products and services that address health, education, agriculture and energy needs
Harris also emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls, saying that they are essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable development. She said that the US is committed to advancing gender equality and combating gender-based violence in Africa and around the world
Harris also spoke about her personal connection to Africa, as a daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica who share ancestral ties to the continent. She said that she was inspired by the stories of her grandfather, who fought for India’s independence, and her mother, who became a scientist and a civil rights activist