Top priorities for US-Africa relations in an era of great power competition: Trade, investment, critical minerals, and security

Thursday, July 23, 2026, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. EDT 
Online: https://www.brookings.edu/events/top-priorities-for-us-africa-relations-in-an-era-of-great-power-competition-trade-investment-critical-minerals-and-security 

Home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and consumer markets, abundant critical minerals, and a young, growing labor force, Africa will be one of the most strategically important regions of the 21st century. As the world’s major powers compete to secure minerals, develop new technologies, and reorient global supply chains, African countries are becoming increasingly important strategic and economic partners.    

How is the U.S. reimagining its policy towards Africa amidst competition with China, Russia and other global powers? And how can the U.S. best prioritize its goals on trade, investment, critical minerals and security around the continent?   

On July 23, the Africa Growth Initiative (AGI) at Brookings will host a conversation with key policymakers and stakeholders on U.S.-Africa relations. The event will also mark the launch of a new Brookings report on U.S. strategies to mobilize private financing for mutually beneficial investments in Africa.  

Online viewers can submit questions in advance by emailing events@brookings.edu.