Dean Taylor Discusses U.S. Engagement with Africa at WorldBoston

Kelly Chiu and Gracen Lashnits at WorldBoston

On January 29th, 2026, Scott Taylor, Pardee School Dean and Professor of International Relations, moderated WorldBoston‘s first conversation of 2026 between Stephanie Sullivan, former ambassador for the US to the African Union, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Ghana, and Kennedy Ukelegharanya, business attorney at a major multinational law firm, advising innovative technology and life sciences companies worldwide. Additionally, the Pardee School’s own Kelly Chiu (IR ’29) and Gracen Lashnits (IR ’28) joined as Green Room Scholars for their first event of the year, entitled Great Decisions: U.S. Engagement with Africa, taken place at the Boston Public Library.

This timely discussion is especially relevant to the global community as Africa’s economic growth continues to reshape its political relationships worldwide. Under the Trump administration, foreign aid to African nations has been significantly reduced. With this shift, the US is positioned to reconsider and potentially redefine its economic engagement with the continent. During the panel, experts outlined several potential directions for this evolving relationship, including adopting a “trade over aid” approach, as noted in Dean Taylor’s opening remarks, originated during the Clinton administration in reference to Angola, as well as increasing participation from the US private sector and investing in emerging African technological industries.

Throughout the talk, the speakers noted the continent’s growing cultural influence, seen in the global rise of Afrobeats, Nollywood, and other creative industries, as an indicator of Africa’s expanding soft power and a promising sector for investment. With Africa home to the world’s youngest population, panelists stressed that empowering youth will be essential to driving long-term development. At the same time, they underscored the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and establishing predictable legal frameworks, arguing that stable governance is a prerequisite for attracting private investment and fostering technological innovation. Concerns were also raised about gaps in infrastructure, particularly electricity access, which continue to limit progress in areas like digital development.

While the House of Representatives still broadly supports traditional aid, panelists debated whether a more transactional approach, similar to the one China has pursued for years, could position the United States to “catch up” strategically. Ambassador Sullivan argued that reducing dependence on foreign aid could ultimately help Africa gain greater control over its own financial resources and development priorities.

(Left to right) Amb. Stephanie Sullivan, Kennedy Ukelegharanya, and Dean Scott Taylor speak at WorldBoston

Across the conversation, all speakers agreed that Africa is at a pivotal moment: with the right investment climate, internal reforms, and strategic partnerships, the continent is poised for significant economic growth led by both traditional sectors and emerging industries.

Audience questions centered on how Africa can strengthen its investment climate and governance systems, including concerns about discouraging US investors from withdrawing early, ensuring that new laws genuinely serve citizens, and establishing a reliable rule of law. Several questions explored whether Africa could benefit from a regional free‑trade alliance modeled on the EU or whether its circumstances are too distinct for such a framework.
Other questions focused on public perception, asking how media can better portray everyday life in Africa beyond negative headlines. Finally, attendees grappled with whether meaningful development is possible under weak democratic institutions and how the continent can leverage its natural resources and economic potential despite these challenges.

The discussion offered audiences a clearer understanding of Africa’s significant potential beyond the negative headlines often dominating global coverage, recognizing the continent’s growing industries and opportunities for sustainable development. This event highlighted the growing role of private investment as a mutually beneficial alternative to relying solely on foreign aid, encouraging audiences to view Africa as a forward‑looking economic partner.

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