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This section expresses the sense of Congress that the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), launched in 2010, is a signature U.S. investment in the next generation of African leaders; that Africa is of strategic importance warranting enduring U.S. partnerships with such leaders; and that the United States should prioritize capacity-building for emerging young leaders in sub-Saharan Africa through enhanced leadership skills, entrepreneurship, public administration, civil society, peace and security, and cross-sectoral networking. It further states that African youth foster economic growth, public sector transparency and governance, and counter extremism, meriting U.S. outreach focus; and that the Secretary of State should increase Mandela Washington Fellowship participants from Africa above the estimated 700 in FY2024 and identify ways to connect YALI alumni to U.S. public and private resources.
This section establishes the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), to be carried out by the Secretary of State, to build the capacity of young African leaders in sub-Saharan Africa in business, civic engagement, and public administration through professional development, training, networking, and economic and technical assistance. The section directs YALI to support (1) Mandela Washington Fellowships for Africans ages 25-35 demonstrating capabilities in entrepreneurship, innovation, public service, and leadership, overseen by the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs; (2) reciprocal exchanges and project collaborations for U.S. citizens with fellowship alumni; and (3) at least four USAID-operated regional leadership centers in sub-Saharan Africa, plus an online network, providing in-person and online training for young leaders ages 18-35 in business, entrepreneurship, civic leadership, public management, peace-building, and conflict resolution. The section further specifies YALI activities, including U.S.-based six-week Leadership Institutes at U.S. educational institutions, an annual Fellowship Summit with U.S. leaders, and Africa-based training, technical assistance, funding access, and networking for alumni and regional center participants with U.S. missions, businesses, and programs such as the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative. Implementation must prioritize public-private partnerships, with the Secretary of State—in coordination with USAID and other agencies—required to submit an implementation plan within 180 days of enactment.