ONE gets great feedback at the Opportunity: Africa Conference in Wilmington

Several ONE members had the great pleasure of attending Senator Chris Coons’ first “Opportunity: Africa Conference” at the University of Delaware, Wilmington campus yesterday. The afternoon began with remarks from the Senator, including a thank you to ONE for our calls and letters. They do make a difference!

Keynote speakers were Daniel Yohannes, CEO of the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and Dr. Rajiv Shah, administrator of USAID. Mr. Yohannes explained that MCC works with countries who want to help themselves and the importance of long-term economic growth for the poorest countries. MCC only works with countries that can show transparency and good governance. He noted that a grant received by Mali was used to expand their airport, improving infrastructure and trade opportunities. He stated, “Africa is open for business!”

Dr. Shah explained the role of USAID, not only as providing immediate aid, but also investing in long term, sustainable growth in the world’s poorest countries. He also gave a huge shout out to ONE, which prompted the audience to erupt in applause!

The @ONECampaign is well represented here at the Opportunity: Africa conference in Wilmington #oppafrica yfrog.com/kgx94csj

— Office of Sen. Coons (@SenCoonsOffice) January 18, 2012

 

Workshops throughout the event included “Economic Opportunity: Introduction to Doing Business in Africa,” “Sustainable Development and Food Security: Preventing the Next Famine,” “Human Rights Challenges: War and Reconciliation, Trafficking and Child Labor,” and “Global Health and a Healthier Future for Africa,” which included ONE’s own US Policy Director, Dr. Pearl Alice Marsh.

It was a fantastic event and we learned so much! It was also a ONE-derful opportunity to network with like-mined people and share with them how we, as ONE members, use our voices to help the voiceless.

Can’t wait for next year’s conference!

-Barb Barrar, ONE congressional district leader