Travel to Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal, November 15-20, 2021

Summary

• Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken visited Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal from November 15-20, underscoring the depth and breadth of our relationships with African partners.  During the visit, the Secretary advanced U.S.-Africa collaboration on shared global priorities, including ending the COVID-19 pandemic and building back to a more inclusive global economy, combatting the climate crisis, revitalizing our democracies, and advancing peace and security.

• Secretary Blinken began his trip in Nairobi, where he met with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Raychelle Omamo, affirming our strategic partnership with Kenya.  The Secretary and representatives of the Kenyan government discussed our shared interests as members of the UN Security Council, including addressing regional security issues such as Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan.  The Secretary advanced U.S.-Kenyan cooperation on ending COVID-19, improving clean energy access, and protecting the environment.  The Secretary underscored U.S. support for a peaceful and inclusive Kenyan election in 2022.

• Secretary Blinken then traveled to Abuja, where he met with President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama and discussed furthering cooperation on global health security, expanding energy access and economic growth, and revitalizing democracy.  The Secretary delivered a speech on U.S.-Africa policy in the capital of Africa’s largest democracy.  Additionally, the Secretary engaged with Nigerian entrepreneurs in the digital sector.

• The Secretary concluded his trip in Dakar, where he met with President Macky Sall and Foreign Minister Aïssata Tall Sall to reaffirm the close partnership between our two countries.  Given President Sall’s upcoming African Union chairmanship, Secretary Blinken looked forward to discussing regional issues and shared values.  The Secretary engaged in events that highlight America’s strong commercial relationship with Senegal, amplified the role of female Senegalese entrepreneurs, and showcased the U.S. partnership to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.