WASHINGTON – Former President Bill Clinton will deliver the keynote address at the third annual Opportunity: Africa conference next month in Wilmington, Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware announced Monday.
The Opportunity: Africa conference, hosted by Coons, links Delaware businesses, faith communities and individuals with top experts on Africa, providing insight on trade opportunities and issues, including human rights challenges, sustainable development, food security and global health, according to Coons’ office.
The Clinton Foundation invests heavily in programs to strengthen African health systems, help African farmers increase their incomes and address climate change by working to improve energy efficiency, reverse deforestation and help cities develop sustainability. While in the White House, Clinton signed into law the landmark Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, which has supported the growth of an African middle class, reduced dependence on development assistance and further opened African markets to American companies.
Coons chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs.
“President Clinton has made an extraordinary impact on Africa and much of the developing world,” Coons said in a statement. “It is my pleasure and true honor to welcome President Clinton to Delaware as the keynote speaker for the third annual Opportunity: Africa conference. His unique perspective and unrelenting commitment to improving global health, promoting economic opportunity and growth, empowering women and girls, and protecting the environment will make this year’s conference unforgettable.”
The conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, March 10 at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. It is free and open to the public, but registration is required for admittance: http://www.coons.senate.gov/opportunityafrica/.
