Trade, Gender and Women’s Entrepreneurship

Trade, Gender and Women’s Entrepreneurship – Opening Scene Setting Remarks – Ambassador Robin Renee Sanders, D.Sc. – Moderator AGOA-CSO Panel  as part of the AGOA Ministerial, Washington D.C.,  2:00 – 3:30, June 13, 2012

Welcome to this important panel on Trade, Gender, and Women’s Entrepreneurship

The word itself and the energy associated with the term “entrepreneurship” can be summed, in my view, in a number of ways -- linked to drivers such as innovation, inspiration, and insightfulness (the 3 I’s) in responding to a need in the economic, business or social sectors for either goods and services or to address an element of the global human condition today. There are no better examples of how entrepreneurship can be transformative in one’s life or one’s community than what women in general, and African women in particular are doing across the Continent – especially today as they help enhance trade, push for more entrepreneur- friendly policies, and help advance the economic well-being of their respective nations.

With more than half the world’s population women at 50.9%, translating into 143, 368, 343, and with half of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population of 1 billion also  women, we see more and more women enlivening the entrepreneurship space with the 3 I’s I noted above – innovation, inspiration, and insightfulness – and our 3 panelists today are both illustrative and emblematic of this. Each panelist will have about 5 minutes for their formal remarks, then we will move to an interactive session.

We have with us today (their bio sketches are in your packets):

Ms. Comfort Aku Adjahoe – Owner of Ele Agbe (I actually met her when I was US rep to ECOWAS and have tried her great products) – Ele Agbe is a shea butter company in Ghana. Ms. Au Adjahoe transformed her sea butter shop into a major trading company.

Ms. Nigist Haile – an entrepreneurial activist and Founder and Executive Director of the Center for African Women Economic Empowerment (CAWEE) that helps and provides capacity building for women entrepreneurs.

Ms. Winnie Mandosela-Kamalandu – a senior lecturer in the Department of Economic at the University of Swaziland, and an expert on social-economic issues and international trade.

Enola Mafie – Program Manager on West Africa of Vital Voices Partnership where she provides program and development support for Vital Voices’ economic and SME development in the US and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Other Definitions of Entrepreneurship, which you might find useful:

Entrepreneurship is the act of being an entrepreneur or "one who undertakes innovations, finance and business acumen in an effort to transform innovations into economic goods". This may result in new organizations or may be part of revitalizing mature organizations in response to a perceived opportunity. The most obvious form of entrepreneurship is that of starting new businesses (referred as Startup Company); however, in recent years, the term has been extended to include social and political forms of entrepreneurial activity. When entrepreneurship is describing activities within a firm or large organization it is referred to as intra-preneurship and may include corporate venturing, when large entities spin-off organizations.^[1]

According to Paul Reynolds, entrepreneurship scholar and creator of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, "by the time they reach their retirement years, half of all working men in the United States probably have a period of self-employment of one or more years; one in four may have engaged in self-employment for six or more years. Participating in a new business creation is a common activity among U.S. workers over the course of their careers." ^[2] And in recent years has been documented by scholars such as David Audretsch to be a major driver of economic growth in both the United States and Western Europe. "As well, entrepreneurship may be defined as the pursuit of opportunity without regard to resources currently controlled (Stevenson,1983)." ^[3]  There are a number of other definitions of entrepreneurship which reflect today’s reality. The Kaufmen Foundation notes the phenomenon of entrepreneurship as being efforts to advance education and training efforts, to promote entrepreneurship-friendly policies, [or] to better facilitate the commercialization of new technologies by entrepreneurs and others, which have great promise for improving the economic welfare of our nation[s].

(sources: wikipedi, pulled June 12, 2012; source  Kaufmen Foundation pulled, June 12, 2012)

Africa’s Food Security:Why Durban Climate Change Conference is Important-The Continent’s Symbiotic Food Security-Climate Change Relationship

A FEEEDS/FE3DS blogspot

The Durban Climate Change (CC) meeting of the Conference of Parties' 17th Session and 7th Conference of Paris (better known as COP 17 & CM7) is a follow on from Cancun (see 12/17/2010 The Africa Post , TAP) which did not move a lot of things forward on key environmental issues ranging from CO2 emissions (average CO2-eq per person is about 4tons per year), carbon sequestration (carbon credits), land and water resource management.*

The important fact that the Climate Change Conference is taking place on the African Continent for the first time should not just boil down to its mere presence in Durban, but just like key Sub Saharan African economies are emerging, Africa's emerging voice on climate change policy is vital to a number of future developmental areas, not least of which is food security – including all of its pillars from food production to improving the Continent’s ability to feed itself and using renewables to spur better agricultural energy use. However, do Africa’s agriculture, environment and energy ministers talk to each other? And, why aren’t more agricultural ministers included in the climate change discussion and vice versa? This needs to happen, but it is not – at least not regularly or in a comprehensive manner.

Most experts recognize that both food security and climate change are affecting the Continent more than any other region of the world. The food security-climate change linkage for Africa hopefully will be heavily on the table in Durban as these symbiotic impact indicators need to be addressed together. Food security specialists from development organizations and civil society (CSOs) to policy makers need to build climate change solutions into their programs. Africa climate change leaders and activists need not forget that the lack of progress on key environmental issues will continue to affect the Continent’s progress to resolve its food security challenges.

What are some of linkages and innovative ways to address these linkages? There are a number of positives noted below, which need to be more broadly implemented with country-specific adaptation on top of the need to create more new solutions. Some of the smart linkages that are being made connecting the symbiotic relationship between food security and climate change include:

-- Renewable options for water such as wind or solar-powered drip irrigation, including considering storage of power gained through battery innovative techniques like those being used by companies like AES in West Virginia;**

--Hybrid seeds that help crops withstand climate stresses such as drought, which can also lead to new usages for traditional crops such as protein-enhanced cassava ( I have visited donor-supported agribusinesses in Kano, Nigeria that adds cow peas to enhance protein in cassava flour);

--Localize agribusiness supply chain by using small farm holders or cooperative crops, reducing transport energy, and manufacturing costs; and,

-- Climate change-smart agricultural production, which helps reduce the impact on the environment such as bio-char (the process of burning plant-based remnants and making charcoal that is then used as renewable fertilizer in places like Congo, and Benin’s Songhai Integrative Farms). The Congo project also obtains carbon credits on CO2 emissions which also further helps overall energy challenges – not just in the country but over the long term for our global community.

These are just a few examples of the things being done that demonstrate the importance of focusing more on Africa’s symbiotic food security-climate change relationship. These global impact indicators -- food security and climate change (see2/3/11 TAP blogspot) -- should be addressed together to better identify solution-driven processes, usages, and outcomes, like those noted above, that respond simultaneously to the challenges of both these issues for Africa’s future and that will assist the people of Africa have a better enabling environment for overall development. African women small farmers from 10 countries calling themselves "Rural Women Assembly," demonstrated in Durban December 3, 2011, on just this point -- linking the affects of climate change on their ability to feed their families.***

What to Do?

The UN General Assembly this year called for improvement in sustainable energy by making 2012 the “International Year of Sustainable Energy,” with the goal of providing access to modern forms of energy, particularly for emerging markets and the developing world by 2030. But, if we do not improve our current efforts not only will this "sustainability" goal not be meet for Africa, but the food security-climate change symbiotic link will continue to be exacerbated as Africa’s population is expected to reach 1.9 billion by 2030, and 2 billion by 2050.**** Modern forms of energy use (some already noted above) must be link to addressing food security solutions.

Thus, we need to be more Food Security-Climate Change Smart through innovation, Africa-focused research and development like what is being done at Ghana’s new bio tech facility, and by expanding the discussion circle so that both agriculture and environment policy makers, CSOs and development entities begin to come together and share in the same international, regional, community, and village fora to address these two global impact indicators.



* See carbon footprint details @ http://bit.ly/carfoot
**Energy Now 11/13/11
*** AFP 12/3/2011 - Joe, Hood
****2050 population estimates from “This is Africa,” Sept/Oct edition 2011.

The Advocacy Initiative called FEEEDS/FE3DS®

There are several key global issues of our day that require constant advocacy and dialogue to ensure that we as a nation and as a global community are doing our utmost to make the world a better place for the next generations. I believe that some of these issues are: Food Security, Education, Environment-Energy, Economics, Democracy- Development, and Self Help, or FEEEDS.
What does FEEEDS/FE3DS® mean?
-- Food Security – meaning availability and access to not just food but nutritional food;
-- Education – representing the entire range of education from knowledge learning to knowledge management to knowledge usage, which also includes training, retraining , entrepreneurship (SMEs), and formal education;
-- Environment-Energy – enabling environments for communities to thrive, as well as a focus and realization of the importance of renewable energy and alternative energy resources;
-- Economics – enhancing living wages, and on the macro level, ensuring governments, and community leaderships manage budgets and tax payer dollars not only effectively, but efficiently in order to address social service needs;
-- Democracy-Development – linking these two symbiotic issues are key to improving life-quality, especially for people of color; and,
--Self-Help – realizing that identity for anyone provides self esteem, but for nations and people of color this also represents both power and empowerment.
In Pursuit of Change:
What and how do we proceed in communicating or educating our diverse world population (now@7 billion) on the challenges of these global human FEEEDS® issues? How do we overcome or shift the paradigms that have been pre-scripted for our families, our communities, and for some nations? There are things that are pre-destined, but the negatives on FEEEDS® are not; thus we can help change these negatives. Let’s begin with communicating and educating about the challenges:
Food Security Most of the world population, particularly of color, and especially women and children, fail to get enough nutritional food to eat every single day. Most of us have heard the adage that many things in life are about “quality not quantity;”thus, this adage also applies to food security. There is a lack of consumption of the key food groups not just daily, but at every meal for many global communities. What we seem to be missing is the focus on and access to good nutrition. The examples seen around the world in communities, particularly those of color are similar as regards to food security, with the seminal issue being: access to nutritional food.
The FEEEDS/FE3DS Enabling Platforms: What are they?
1.) Education: Although many global challenges are connected to FEEEDS/FE3DS®, the way forward on many issues is education, specifically training (also vocational), retraining, formal education, entrepreneurship (SMEs), knowledge sharing, usage and management, discussion, and creative and enterprising development and design solutions, particularly for youth and women. We need to think of education as our new Frontier Enterprise where dynamic development design strategies are created to respond to FEEEDS. Education is not static, and includes more than just basic and/or formal education.
2.) Environment-Energy: These two issues are linked, and we should focus on the need to improve both sectors. Simply put – they are symbiotic and affect quality of life. Here community is being used in the big “C” sense -- meaning at the family, local, state and sovereign levels. The environment is both where you live, and how you live in your community. Where one lives must provide an “enabling atmosphere” where one feels safe and confident to thrive as a person or a culture. We must also take the responsibility to treat the living nature around us with more respect. This includes using and advocating for renewable energy, particularly using alternative resources for daily living. Here knowledge sharing will be important even on the simple things like knowing which action is greener than another. Here is a simple test: Is plastic or glass recycling greener; is flying at night greener than day flying; and, is wearing organic cotton greener than wearing recycled bamboo? (answers appear at the end)
3.) Economics: Economics plays a key role in everything – personal, family, community, and government. If the economic sure-footing is not present then it detracts from progress, vision and future planning. Enhancing living wages, ensuring government leaderships manage budgets and tax payer monies effectively and efficiently to address social service needs – are part of the fundamentals. A reliable, stable economic environment is not only empowering, but powerful and is a pillar of both a strong government, and personal identity, where self-reliance and self-esteem are the order of the day.
4.) Development-Democracy: There is also a linkage of these two themes because democracy – as defined as transparent rules, regulations, stable institutions, and equal access to social services – are a “must-have” to develop communities and address global human values, and improve life-quality – all hallmarks of democracy.
5.) Self-Help: Self-help, a pillar of leadership, is the center-beam. Countries should not always want (or expect) outsiders to always provide, guide, direct, or frame (meaning explain and resolve through their world lens) what the responses to FEEEDS® are. These issues for many nations will need to be driven by country-specific self-help by way of innovative, creative, and sometimes culturally-specific means.

Green answers: Recycled glass over plastic requires less energy as recycled plastic continues to degrade in quality; flying during the day; organic cotton over bamboo (Source Washington D.C. NBC local news 9/25/2011).

Africa’s Voice on Global Environment Issues: Why It’s Important

A FEEEDS™ blogspot

As Cancun ends with environmental issues and policies still on the table that will affect not only how future generations live, but how the planet copes with the enormous carbon foot print (greenhouse gases produced by humans measured in units of carbon dioxide, CO2 equivalent or CO2-eq), the voice of sub Saharan Africa needs to be front and center in the global debate. The world’s current per person CO2-eq is about 4 tons per person and the average North American generates about 20 tons of CO2-eq each year ( http://www.eoearth.org/article/Carbon_footprint).

Sub Saharan Africa and the rest of the developing world have a key role to play in leading, designing, deciding, and shaping environmental policy for the coming decades. Why? Because of several key factors that should not be underestimated or overlooked. Global environmental policy is the macro picture and sets the stage for how we will live together in the future. It will be important for Africa to keep the macro elements of population, economic growth, water and land use, food availability, pollution and last, but certainly not least, managing energy resources in a more efficient and effective manner. Africa needs to be one of the leading regions in the world shaping these policy issues -- developing practical, innovative solution that will help the Continent better provide for future generations. Here are some key factors as to why Africa should be one of the primary voices on how global environmental policy unfolds:

Sub Saharan Africa’s Population
Sub Saharan Africa’s population is young, with more than half of it under the age of 25. With current continent-wide population growth rates averaging 2.45 per cent, and the trajectory estimated to remain the same over the next 40 years (www.data.un.org/data), Africa is on track to be home to 1.9 billion people by 2050. In addition, although Africa is the third largest continent, it is reportedly the fastest growing with the billionth person born there this year (https:// www.overpopulation.org/Africa.html).

With half its population being under 25 now and if the trajectory remains the same, Africa would be host to 29 per cent of the people in the world of that age group. This means they will need to not only be adequately and nutritionally feed, but have access to education (particularly vocational), training, housing and resources to have a good quality of life. Thus, the affects of climate change and resources management will be vital for the Continent. Now is the time for sub Saharan Africa to be out front on global environmental issues. With this large population, the affects of climate change will likely hit Africa harder than any other region. To sustain this population several things must change from how energy resources, and water and land use are managed. The affects of climate change such as drought, famine-related diseases, and poverty cannot be underestimated.

In addition, oil-producing countries should not see alternative energy usages such as solar and wind as a threat to economic development. There will be enough need for all environmentally-friendly forms of energy well into the future. With proper planning, the right democratic leadership, and transparent resource management, economic growth for many African countries can be realized. The future does not have to be bleak for the Continent, but the time is now for Africa to be seen as one of the leaders in the global debate on how large populations cope and plan the use of their resources.

Water Management and Land Use
These are the next two issues that must move to the top of the agenda for sub Saharan Africa. Not only is the management of these resources key to supporting the population, but water and land use also affects economic growth and development. Although these two resources are often discussed in Africa, they need to be addressed in terms of continent-wide environmental policy, and regional cooperation. Leading activists, academics, and experts such as Hernando de Soto (http://www.ild.org.pe/), Dr. Zuberi of the University of Pennsylvania, and the World Bank’s Deininger during a 2010 Tanzanian water and land use conference, noted that most of the world’s water resources and arable and agricultural land are in the developing world. For example, according to de Soto, about 1.7 billion hectares today produces most of the world’s food, and with a bump from technology this could rise to 2.4 billion hectares. These hectares are mostly in Latin America and Africa.

Furthermore according to GRID-Arendal, a collaborating center of the United Nations Development Program (UNEP), Africa has the potential now to raise its current 160 million hectares of arable and agricultural land up to 300 million hectares (http://www.grida.no).

The importance of improving the management of both these resources is evident. For water, better management will provide more access to potable water and avert water scarcity and water stress (water scarcity and stress generally refers to environmental problems caused by unmet water needs). For land, better management will improve usage of arable and agricultural areas to improve food production.

This means that current and future use of these two precious resources must be done with realistic planning. If not, the likelihood increases for food insecurity, and of course, conflict over these two vital resources. About 70 per cent of people living in sub Saharan Africa depend on agriculture (http://www.eoearth.org/), and according to Water System Analysis Group, 64% rely on limited water http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16042282?dopt=Abstract).

When talking about land, it is important also to keep in mind FAO’s definition of both arable and cultivate land. Arable land includes land defined by FAO as areas under temporary cultivation; cultivated land is that which is under permanent crops for long periods of time such as cocoa, coffee, and rubber. For sub Saharan Africa this means about 8.3 per cent of the land (http://www.tradingeconomics.com/sub-saharan-africa).

There are numerous examples in the world were ethnic and religious differences or tensions arise because of pressures on either land use or water rights -- or lack of access to either. If you add these challenges to the ever-expanding desertification in the Sahel, the importance of managing these resources in an environmentally sound manner is even more evident. Sub Saharan African leaders will need to continue to actively and effectively participate in the climate change debate and help develop global policies to address its unique position as the fastest growing Continent. At the 2010 Tanzanian Conference, it was sited that Sudan, Zambia and Mozambique reportedly have the largest amounts of land available for food production. Desertification is affecting countries like Nigeria, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Chad to name a few and blogitrrs has already reported on current food security issues in the West Africa region (http://www.blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/08/2010-food-security-challenges-in-west.html). Again, water and land use affects economic growth and development, jobs and the future.

All of these issues are pillars in the environment and climate change discussion. We all want a way forward that makes sense, and that will ensure that we have: a resource-rich future that pushes all of us to be environmentalists, energy conservationists, and users of alternative energy resources in the execution of our daily lives. It is important to remember that future economic growth and development will be impacted by how we handle climate change today.

Indeed, for sub Saharan Africa the important things on the radar screen to keep in mind are:

-- That a good percentage of the world’s water resources are on the African Continent, thus having enough potable water for the both current and future generations is vital;

-- That most of the arable and agricultural land today is in the developing world, (both arable and cultivated land). These must be used wisely for food security (both adequate and nutrition-rich foods), and with environmental considerations in mind. This includes using innovative technology to improved food storage and crop rotation, hybrid seeds, water harvesting, and more drip irrigation to name a few solutions;

--That land tenure and land uses are part of the climate change debate for Africa because laws and regulations in many countries will need to be address at the same time with a view to incorporating environmental sound policies. Land tenure issues are a big piece of the environmental picture given that whoever owns land determines how, particularly for agriculture. This includes bringing more women into the discussion, particularly on title and land transfer issues. Noting that 90 per cent of land in sub Saharan Africa is not titled, de Soto refers to land titles as “passports” as it allows one to have a voice in how land is used.; and,

--That energy usage (fossil fuel and combustion) is one of the largest markers of the world’s carbon foot print. Alternative energy usage (wind, solar, hydro) must come into play alongside improved environmental-sound use of hydrocarbons (i.e. advance efforts to capture gas from flaring so it can be used as an additional energy resource). A sufficient and efficient energy platform sustains manufacturing, industry and entrepreneurial activity leading to economic growth, development, and jobs.

All of these issues underscore the importance of the Continent’s leadership role in the global climate change/environmental debate in order for sub Saharan Africa to provide a good quality of life for its 1.9 billion population at mid-Century and beyond.

*N.B. Primary carbon footprint is emissions of greenhouse gases from the burning of fossil fuels combustion for energy consumption and transportation. Secondary footprint is the indirect emissions during the lifecycle of products (i.e. greenhouse gases emitted making plastic bottles). (http://www.eoearth.org/article/Carbon_footprint). All stats and Africa references refer to sub Saharan Africa.

Media Clips on Dr. Sanders' Recent Activities in Nigeria

"THE United States of America has pledged to work in concert with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to ensure the success of the energy sector reform as espoused in the Petroleum Industry Bill currently before the National Assembly.

The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Robin Sanders, made this commitment on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the Group Managing Director of NNPC, Engr. Austen Oniwon at the NNPC Towers.

Sanders who said the US considers itself as a friend and stakeholder in the Nigerian nation, stated that America would continue to support and remain committed to Nigeria through its international oil companies (IOCs) and would love to see the energy reform sail through.

She said the US has been playing very constructive role in the Nigerian energy sector which has culminated in the signing of five grants for the construction of Independent Power Projects (IPPs) in the country.

The Ambassador explained that her country”s interest in Nigeria was not just because of the strategic position it occupies in Africa and the international community, but because of the potential it has for the future, adding: ““We want to be partners in the journey to that future.””

Sanders who said the US looks forward to the consolidation of the amnesty program in order for Nigeria to realize its full production potential in both liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons, also expressed her appreciation to the Nigerian government for its willingness to accept input into the PIB."

NNPC, US synergize on PIB By Yemie Adeoye of Vanguard July 26, 2010

"Meanwhile, United States of America (USA) on Thursday called on President Goodluck Jonathan to deploy adequate funds from the excess crude account and the foreign reserves to enable the INEC to come up with a credible voters register, begin voters education as a way of demonstrating seriousness of purpose and dedication to democracy.

The US observed that since the nation’s reserves in the two accounts stood at US$3.2 billion and US$37 billion respectively, the country did not have an option but to use the enormous resources to fully fund the electoral process.

US Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Robin Sanders, who made the remarks at a colloquium on electoral reform organised by Coalition of Democrats for Electoral Reform (CODER), said the biggest challenge on the roadmap to 2011 elections was time, which she said was already running out if the polls must be held in January or February next year.

She said INEC would need to register nearly 13 million voters every month, which translate into 500,000 daily or 50,000 voters every hour, adding that the body would also need to ensure that nearly 25,000 polling booths were ready every month.

According to her, “The Nigerian voter wants a 2011 election that is fair, free, credible and most importantly, transparent. Voters with the right attitude are also necessary for a successful election. Your vote must reflect your desire to have leadership that can help Nigeria move forward on things like improving the education, health and agricultural sectors and addressing other challenges such as ending the culture of impunity against corruption or corrupt officials."

INEC needs N72bn for voters’ register –Jega: US charges Jonathan on adequate fund for electoral proces: Senate passes electoral bill, proposes order of election Written by Soji-Eze Fagbemi and Christian Okeke, Abuja Friday, 23 July 2010

It is Your Election – Manage It Well! - Remarks By Dr. Sanders at NIM

It is Your Election – Manage It Well!

Address to
The Nigerian Institute of Management

By
Dr. Robin Renée Sanders, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria
On the Occasion of the Annual Distinguished Management Lecture, July 1, 2010 – Lagos

All other protocols duly observed

Good afternoon, Ladies and Gentlemen and Members of the Press.

Thank you for inviting me to speak on the topic of “Management of the Electoral Process: An Imperative for Democratic Governance of the Nigerian State.” I want to congratulate the Nigerian Management Institute and its role in promoting multi-disciplinary discussion of the best ways to manage the challenges and opportunities that Nigeria will face, particularly as regards to elections. Certainly the topic I was asked to speak on is really the topic of discussion in the polity of this country today given that Nigeria has several key milestones approaching: The celebration of 50 years of independence as well as a pivotal point in your democratic experience as you seek to hold not only a free and fair election, but a credible one. Let’s take the first milestone first. Fifty years, that is big step for a mature nation. It is a time for both celebration and reflection. So let’s celebrate first. Let’s celebrate that . . . you are a dynamic country in both energy and force of resources and that your nation will shape the future of the region and of the continent.

Let’s celebrate that you as Nigerians embrace democracy . . . … and the principles of democracy and have had two peaceful transitions of power from one head of state to another.

And, let’s celebrate your respect and presence on the world stage as your nation assumes its rightful place as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. These are things to marvel at . . . These are things to celebrate!

So now let’s talk about the things you may want to reflect on as you reach 50 years of the life of a nation . . . looking back on where you have come from . . . where you are going . . . and what challenges lay ahead. I have been here a long time now . . . and truly feel that I am at home and . . . a family member . . . and as a member of the family these are the things I wonder about as Nigeria moves forward and begins its 51st year in 2011. I want to start with the challenges that I have heard Nigerians talk about in the agriculture, health, and education sectors, and the need to fight corruption. So let’s talk about these issues a bit before we move on to the next milestone – elections -- because for me all of these things are legs of the same democracy stool. Strong democracies are not just about election but a number of things – particularly in development.

I just wanted to share some information with you as food for thought today…food for reflection as you collectively think about where you want your nation to be, your home to be given that you are management specialists and taking stock of your nation at this pivotal time. So I just want to provide you with some statistics to consider as regards to these three key sectors.

Let’s begin with agriculture. Nigeria hosts the largest population in Sub-Saharan Africa of 150 million people . . . with a growth rate of 2.2 per cent . . . Feeding this many people can prove to be a daunting task... The agricultural sector contributes 42% to this nation's GDP . . . and accounts for 80% of the jobs in Nigeria. But currently you import . . . 1.4 million tons of rice a year more than any . . .other . . . country in the world and you are one of the largest importers of wheat in the world as well. Why? You have the talent, and both the human and natural resources to be self-sufficient in any stable crop you choose, particularly these two. The United States Government has pledge 37 million dollars to help Nigeria become more food secure… working to make subsistence farmers more commercial; developing drought-resistance crops; and, aiding farmers in developing markets.

In education, teachers are critical to quality education. At present only 59% of the 600,000 primary school teachers have the minimum required qualification, the National Certificate in Education, as stated in your Ministry of Education’s Statistics of Education in Nigeria (1999-2005). We do applaud the Ministry's current approach to reforms of teacher education. However, according to the Nigeria EdData Survey 2004, conducted by Nigeria’s National Population Commission, over 72% of Nigeria's children aged 4 to 12 lack basic functional numeracy and literacy skills. Girl child education lags behind that of boys, with some reports having 51 per cent of girls not attending primary school. The United States Government provides technical assistance in the development of the revised National Teacher Education Policy . . . and the Ambassadors Girls Scholarship Program provides text books, uniforms and shoes, and scholarships to over 9,000 girls and boys attending schools in 13 states throughout Nigeria. . . . a literate and numerate citizenry is the foundation of any democratic society.

Nigerians also tell me they want a strong health care system that can provide basic health care. The United States Government and the American people worked hand-in-hand with Nigeria's health care professionals to care and treat – and more importantly prevent – some of the major diseases many Nigerians face: polio . . . malaria . . . tuberculosis . . . and HIV/AIDS. The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (better known as PEPFAR) alone has committed nearly $400 million a year for Nigeria. On malaria we will be increasing resources in this area under President Obama’s Malaria Initiative in the tune of $51 million dollars, including a campaign to provide bed-nets to every household in Nigeria. As management leaders I just want to highlight one statistic that I think you will find interesting. Nigerian Government expenditures towards HIV/AIDS programs in 2008 according to a recent report by your own National AIDS Coordination Agency or NACA and UNAIDS stated that only 4.5 billion naira is spent on preventing and fighting HIV/AIDS yearly, so it is interesting to read in the press the proposed budget of somewhere between 10-62 billion naira on Nigeria’s 50th anniversary celebrations ... remember we are in the reflection stage of our discussion this morning. A more realistic beginning figure for Nigeria to truly start combating HIV/AIDs is at least 27 billion or 15% of the funding noted by the goals set in your 2010 National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework.

Then there is Power. Development depends on adequate, reliable supplies of power ... to run factories, light offices and homes, process foods, power computers in schools and run diagnostic equipment in clinics… But we no longer notice the steady noise from standby generators . . . the fact that we no longer notice is not a good thing. Nigeria struggles with the power it needs to grow and it doesn't have the transmission capacity to move the power it has to where it needs to be. Our countries agree that reform of the energy sector is crucial to attracting investment and promoting development. The United States provides technical assistance through USAID . . . USTDA, and the Department of Energy… to help in the power sector, especially on independent power projects. I have signed at least five of these grants since I have been here. On corruption, you must make stemming corruption the order of the day as it will under cut development at every turn, including affecting your electoral process. Our assistance supports the development of hydro-electric power, regulatory frameworks, and renewable energy.

So with this backdrop of where you are, where do you want to go with your next election in 2011? You hold the power to ensure that your 2011 elections . . . are elections all Nigerians can be proud of . . . can respect and that can . . . move the country forward.

Your friends like America want that too, and we are committed to working with you. So what are we doing? We are supporting civil society organizations, providing technical assistance to INEC to encourage a more transparent voter registry, and training political parties so they can play a more transparent and effective role in the 2011 electoral process. We also are helping INEC review its overall operational planning for the upcoming elections; providing training to 7,000 domestic and 100 international observers, and training 8,000 civil society members to conduct quick vote counts in key states to validate voting at the polls and advocate against election fraud and violence.

We see the appointment of the new INEC leadership .… as a positive step toward the management of credible elections. There appears right now to be insufficient time to create a new voter registration list; however, INEC must do all it can in the time remaining to ensure that the current list is as accurate as possible…. The National Assembly has appropriated funding for INEC … but reports are that funds are yet to be disbursed into INEC election account in order for it to truly begin the hard work of operationalizing its plan, updating the registry, and addressing logistics, and distribution of materials.

Constitutional amendments put forth by the national assembly are pending with the thirty-six state legislatures. Among the issues addressed, these amendments will determine the date of the election, a decision that must be made soon.

Remember . . . democracy is about government by the consent of the governed…. Elections matter because it is through elections that you as Nigerians will choose the people who will lead you, represent your interests, and address the issues that we already noted in the reflection of your 50 years of independence. Again, as management leaders I want to leave you with some stark statistics to think about because time is running out on getting many things done . . . and done in time. Consider this example. If your elections are in early 2011, say in January or February, every month from now until then you would need to either register or verify the registry of nearly 13 million voters…meaning everyday (every day) you would need to register or verify the registry of 500,000 voters, or 50,000 voters every hour in order to be ready on election day. For polling places, we understand that your need is approximately 120 thousand polling sites with 20-40,000 satellite locations. What this may mean is every month you need to establish 25,000 polling sites, 1000 per day, 100 per hour. This is a daunting task, but I have faith in you. I was asked to speak today about the management of the election processes . . . and these are the tasks that are before you . . . these are the management issues before you . . . to get you to . . . at process . . . that is transparent . . . and a credible election.

Then of course there is political will. That is always the variable. All of the technical assistance in the world cannot overcome a lack of commitment by every single player in the political process to do right by the voter – from the ruling party to the polling site manager. That has always been the challenge. And, we hope that in your 50th year . . . as a maturing democracy that this is no longer the case.

As your friend, we want you to succeed. But we can't want it more than every single Nigeria does -- from the elite to the farmer. This is your country. . . These are your choices. As you approach the 2011 elections, choose your leaders wisely. Expect more of them. Hold them accountable. Remember, the essence of democracy is the power of the people . . . and each and every voter.

I remember being taken to register to vote as soon as I turned 18 years of age. My parents – who grew up in a segregated South of the United States, whose parents and grandparents, faced challenges to their right to vote . . . instilled in me the importance and the power of the vote. Since that time . . . I have never missed voting for the President of my nation because I knew that my single vote can and did make a difference. I have heard that desire from every single Nigerian I meet. I wish you well in 2011! But time is of the essence. Be wise and know that the people of the United States stand with you, as one of your best friends, and we want the very best for our best friend – credible, transparent elections in 2011. Thank you.

Nigeria: Cassava-to-Glucose Factory, National Day, Ailing President

On February 25, U.S. Mission Nigeria hosted its National Day in Abuja to a crowd of nearly 700 people, with the U.S. Navy Band playing and the wonderful Nigerian singer Age Bika. The crowd was wowed by their performances, and guest were treated to food from all across America. My speech focused on the uncertain political times in Nigeria with the return of the ailing President, a kind and thoughtful person. The USG wishes him well and counts on Nigerian leaders to do the utmost to stay on democracy's path. Key attendees were the Secretary of the Federal Government and the new Attorney General of the Republic. (see photo album)


On February 28, the Consulate General in Lagos did its National Day celebrations under the direction of the Consul General. I attended as well to greet and take photos with our wonderful company sponsors who always support our national day activities. There were about 750 guest at this event and the talented young men and women from the Lagos American International School played as fire works hovered over the water. My brief remarks here also focused on keeping Nigeria's democracy on the right path.

On February 22, Had pleasure today to sign a $162,000 USG Grant, along with the USAID Mission Director by which the USG will assist Nigeria Nigeria in one of its principal development goals of obtaining 10,000 megawatts of electricity by the end of 2011. The USG will work with Independent Power Producers Association on this key programs that will also include USG efforts on climate change to help identify renewable energy, reduce gas flarings -- important issues to reduce carbon foot print.

On February 21, The Formers Did A Great! Job: Bush and Rice at This Day Awards. Former President Bush and Former Secretary of State Rice showcased statesperson-ship when they discussed leadership, Nigeria's place in Africa and the world, noting Nigeria must move forward on its democracy. Highlight was a talk-around with Bush and former UK PM Blair moderated by former SecState Rice on the actions during their tenure, the importance of Africa, their love for the continent, and their legacies of development, debt relief, and combating AIDS. Rice gave frank talk at evening event to a gala crowd of 1000 on the impact of her history on who she is today, and her good wishes for Nigeria as it charts the way ahead. Having served as Ambassador to Republic of Congo under both, they included me in their meeting with the newly names Acting President of Nigeria. Key points sometimes circumstances make great leaders, rise to the occasion with transparent 2011 elections, fighting corruption, and good governance. (see photo in album)

On March 2, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet with nearly 100 farmers involved in a cassava cooperative and a local factory that changes cassava to glucose. The USG provides technical assistance to the Ekha Agro Factory whose managing director is a dynamic young woman. This is the first factory of its kind in Nigeria, and the first in West Africa! With USG technical assistance, we have been able to help 1000 local farmers in 3 states -- Ogun, Oyo, and Lagos -- increasing their yields and their incomes. This project is both income-generating and helps build a sense of community and cooperation among the farmers, as they all work together on each other's crops in support of greater yields, which means more income. Farmers First!!

On March 3, I had another active day raising the profile of the USG in the agricultural sector. I spoke with a number of small and medium size entrepreneurs at the launching of the USG's Nigerian Expanded Export Promotion Project or NEEP which is through USAID and the West Africa Trade Hub. NEEP will train small business persons to identify their markets in the U.S. and in the West Africa region in order to export their products, and help them improve the quality of their products, particularly in shea butter and textiles. The goal is to have their products reach export-quality levels or increase their outputs. Nearly 100 small business persons attended the NEEP launch and were beneficiaries of the first training event. I learned there was a U.S. Shea Butter Institute in Atlanta - who knew! (see photo in album)

Ambassador Sanders' Remarks: The “Elements of Democracy”

The “Elements of Democracy”

The Way Forward in the U.S.-Nigerian Bilateral Relationship

U.S. Ambassador Robin Renée Sanders' U.S. Foreign Policy Address to The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, Alumni Association, Nigeria
November 19, 2009 – Lagos, Nigeria

It is indeed an honor and a pleasure to be with you this afternoon. I look out before me and see first so many friends, as well as Nigerian leaders of industry, civil society, academia and government, and of course it is my pleasure to share the high table with His Excellency and my dear friend -- Governor Babatunde Fashola. Governor, I want to take this public opportunity to recognize you and your team for all the wonderful work that you are doing in Lagos City and Lagos State. With every visit I make to the state, I see the incredible growth and changes. I also want to thank you for working with my team on a number of issues from investment, to development and trade.

This brings me to the alumni of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, one of our most prestigious educational training programs that has helped build the capacity of Nigerians working in fields as far ranging as banking and legal services, to environment and e-government. I appreciate being invited here to speak on the U.S.-Nigerian bilateral relationship and the way forward as part of the 30th anniversary celebration of this unique program – the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program -- named after one of our foremost leading senators and vice-presidents who believed strongly in the pillars of democracy from good governance, and transparency in election processes, to education and training. Thus, he created this wonderful program to build leaders – such as yourselves -- who hold the future of their country in their hands. As global citizens, today more than ever before, Africa is a fundamental part of our interconnected world. You know that and I know that. The U.S. Government has recognized this, which is why President Obama has highlighted that Africa is at the center of our foreign policy. And within that framework, Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Johnnie Carson further added that Nigeria is the single most important country within that framework.

I am here today to underscore these two key points to you– that Africa is key in our U.S. foreign policy and that Nigeria is the single most important country therein. That is why I want to talk to you today about not only what we are doing and have done, but where we are going in the bilateral relationship between our two great nations, particularly after the August 2009 visit to Nigeria of Secretary of State Clinton where it was announced that our two governments would form a Binational Commission (BNC). So let me begin with -- What We Are Doing and Where We Are Going:

If you remember, in his speech to Africa in Accra, and I brought commemorative copies of the President’s speech with me today President Obama focused on four critical areas regarding our future relationship with the Continent. These four areas are building: democratic institutions and health systems; resolution of conflicts; and supporting governments that are transparent and fight corruption. These themes are the four pillars at the core of the U.S.-Nigeria Framework for Partnership and define our bilateral relationship with Nigeria where want to see a more democratic, transparent, prosperous and secure Nigeria. Our current engagement extends across the length and breadth of this nation -- particularly in rural areas -- with programs in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Let me share just a few examples with you. What exactly is the U.S. policy in Nigeria and with Nigerians?First and foremost it is promoting democracy, at all levels of government. Paramount in this is encouraging good governance, transparency and integrity, including fighting corruption, holding transparent elections and working with civil society and a free, unencumbered press.

How do we go about doing these things?

On good governance, with government, civil society and press partners, we are:

• Assisting in building national, state and local government capacity focusing on transparency in fiscal budgets and public procurement;
• Working with and supporting the recent efforts on transparency particularly of the CBN, FIRS, SEC, ICPC, and the Code of Conduct Bureau and others on fighting corruption.
• Holding capacity building workshops on best practices on election reform, including training for the National Assembly, political parties, the disabled, and women.

This includes:

• Working with civil society and the press to help them expand their capacity to monitor elections, and be the voice for the voiceless, and supporting their efforts to publish the Electoral Reform, or Uwais, Committee’s report.

Economic development is another important anchor in a democracy. Thus, we are providing training and technical assistance in agriculture, entrepreneurship, vocational training, and other income-generating skills. For example, under the Ambassador’s self-help program, we are supporting a great project, The Foundation for Skills Development, right here in Lagos State that provides a variety of vocational training classes.

Given that more than 95 per cent of the Nigerian population is involved in agriculture, the President has launched a Food Security initiative with $25 million this year alone for Nigeria. This key initiative will provide jobs, build capacity, and increase yields in the agricultural sector. For example, in 22 states, under our agriculture and food security program, we are helping small farmers double their productivity and increase income. I have been to all of these states to see our programs in places from Benue and Bauchi, to Anambra , Ondo , and Jigawa. President Obama’s Food Security initiative in Nigeria will:

• Increase the sales of agricultural products by $220 million for 750,000 farmers, processors, and shippers, of which 300,000 are women.
• Bring in the private sector , increase credit to farmers , and improve rural-to-urban roads (e.g. Lagos-Maradi/Lagos-Cotonou routes);
• Create 50,000 new jobs in the sector; and,
• Increase agriculture and yields of key grains 50-75 per cent.

Without enough food, adults struggle to work and children struggle to learn. According to the World Bank, for every one percent growth in agriculture, poverty declines by as much as two percent.

Another key aspect of economic development is trade. We are expanding our efforts to promote the export of Nigerian non-oil products to the United States under the African Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA program. As part of our continuing efforts on AGOA, the U.S. and Bank of Industry opened an AGOA Resource Center last summer on Lagos Island. Please take advantage of the resources at this Center. It was requested by you and we have responded. [AGOA has not achieved its full potential here, but we have reached out broadly to the Nigerian business community to expand its understanding of the opportunities available under AGOA. We are willing to roll up our sleeves and work with you so that you can reap the full benefits of AGOA here in Nigeria.]

We have held two major nation-wide capacity building training workshops , called POTICO , right here in Lagos on both agriculture and AGOA with BOI, representatives from USG agencies including EXIM, USTDA, OPIC, and our Agricultural and Commercial Services, FAS, and USCS. We are also launching a new Nigeria Expanded Export Program or NEEP, which will connect Nigerian exporters with partners in the US and we are also maintaining our trade mission under USCS and FAS. We all know that the most important resource in this country is its people. You know that and we know that. This is why, as President Obama has said, our programs must invest in the people of Nigeria particularly in education and health:

On education, under the President’s $600 million African Education Initiative, we are providing scholarships to over 2,200 students in 316 schools in 13 states around Nigeria. I have spoken with children and parents first-hand from Borno to Port Harcourt about how these scholarships have changed their lives. We have also provided teacher training to some 40,000 teachers, helped develop curricula and expanded educational training opportunities through our 12 American Corners around the country. Our newest corner is the Barack Obama American Corner in Lagos on Victoria Island.

On health , and as we approach World AIDS Day on December 1 , I want to note our contributions through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief , more commonly known as PEPFAR , which helps millions of Nigerians living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
In addition, as part of our people-to-people efforts, particularly at the grassroots level, we are working to refurbish health clinics, build boreholes, renovate schools, and construct vocational training centers.

On energy, America has placed a new emphasis, under President Obama’s leadership, on addressing climate change, through programs like the gas-to-liquids technology project in the Niger Delta; and power projects through the Michigan State Public Service Commission. We are also encouraging a constructive Petroleum Industry Bill on fiscal, investment, and tax issues that will help Nigeria.

Turning to one other very important subject area -- peace and the amnesty. First, we want to commend the people of the Niger Delta and the Government for finding a way out of the conflict. We hope the country continues to build on these efforts and we encourage further and quick movement to identify appropriate reintegration and rehabilitation programs. Here, we also want to be partners, and look to find ways to be helpful with programs ranging from IT , education , agriculture , health and maritime security.

These four pillars are the “Elements of Democracy”. And, Democracies cannot move forward without these things: good governance, particularly a corruption-free environment and transparent election processes; economic development; strong educational and health systems; and a peaceful enabling environment.

We are here as friends and partners and the “Elements of Democracy” I have highlighted above reflect both the opportunities and challenges for Nigeria. So as your friend and your partner where do we go from here and what is next?

You know the challenges well. You confront them every day. Overcoming these challenges is essential if Nigeria is to realize its tremendous potential. As friends and partners, let's examine these challenges facing Nigeria that we have heard you, as Nigerians, talk about in such forums as government, civil society, and the vibrant press.

From what we have heard from you as Nigerians; there seems to be broad agreement on the need for electoral reforms prior to the April 2011 elections. Although the unpublished recommendations of the Electoral Reform Commission (ERC) were to be a starting point, many are concerned that reforms will not be in place in time for the upcoming elections. We understand through civil society, academics, legal expert, and members of the ERC (or Uwais committee) and others that key elements of the election reform agenda should be adopted, with the goal of having them fully implemented in time for 2011 elections. We understand these reforms include a transparent voter registration, logistics planning, and better electoral administration, to name a few.

The upcoming gubernatorial elections in Anambra State will be a key indicator of the country's ability to conduct credible elections in 2011. Much of the international community will be observing how this election unfolds.

Civil society is an important partner in electoral reform and plays a critical role in election monitoring. [In several CSO coalition meetings, there have been calls for free and open domestic and international electoral monitoring in 2011 , including freedom of movement, accreditation of observers , and access to polling and counting stations.]

The second critical challenge is to contain corruption. Widespread, systemic corruption can undermine governance at all levels. I know you saw, like I did, yesterday’s Transparency International’s report where Nigeria moved up the list not down to 130 from 121. While no country can claim to be free of corruption, experience across many countries and many cultures shows that persistent, systemic corruption will be eliminated where there is strong political will to oppose it.

Corruption is the enemy of progress. It translates into high costs for poor quality services to the average Nigerian, siphons funds from important projects, cripples government performance and accountability, discourages the payment of taxes, is a disincentive to investment, and undermines democracy.

The fourth critical challenge is to achieve effective reform of the power generation and hydrocarbon sectors to improve transparency, administration, performance, and have reliable and affordable energy.

The final challenge we have heard Nigerians talk about, is the need to ensure long-term food security for all Nigerians. You are a vast and rich country of nearly 150 million people. I have seen this first hand visiting 35 of your 36 states. Food security reduces hunger and cannot be accomplished by short-term interventions Key efforts toward mechanized farming and credit to farmers is vital. We have several credit programs through FAS and EXIM Bank that help do this.

So, as your friend and your partner: Where do we go from here and what is next?

There is much we can do together, and we are hoping to address both the opportunities and challenges with you under the Binational Commission, or BNC, mentioned earlier and announced during Secretary Clinton’s visit. Already, our two governments are working hard to establish this commission.

We are hoping that the BNC will raise the level of engagement between our two nations on the key areas of governance, election reform, transparency, to fight corruption in these areas, development and security, to support efforts in the Niger Delta, energy, and agriculture. Through ongoing working groups that we hope will be established under the BNC, we can work together to address these challenges. I have already highlighted to you what we are doing and what we can do to support these “Elements of Democracy”.

Thus, together we can:

• Achieve free, fair and peaceful elections in Nigeria in 2011 and beyond.
• We can fight corruption through credible institutional reform and sustained and effective prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution efforts;
• We can provide tangible development, economic and educational opportunities, and training to the people of the Niger Delta to promote lasting peace from today forward;
• We can improve transparency, administration, and performance of the power generation and hydrocarbon sectors; and
• We can ensure long-term food security for all Nigerians.

The road ahead for any democracy is not easy. We too, in America, have seen our nation transform over our history. And today, we are still a nation transforming but built on and committed to these “Elements of Democracy”. I have always marveled at the incredible talent in Nigeria. Nigeria is a country filled with leaders like you; the students I have had the privilege to meet and talk with at universities, primary and secondary schools in states like Benin , Lagos , Oyo , Born, Gombe, and Sokoto; the strong and dynamic women in this country; the entrepreneurs; and members of the private sector all working hard day in and day out to realize the tremendous potential of this great nation. The people of the United States of America and the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are one and the same, with democratic values, love of country and respect for their friends. We look forward to working with Nigeria under the BNC as we walk forward together as partners.

Thank you.

Remarks of Ambassador Robin Renée Sanders at the Nigerian Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Graduation

Remarks

Ambassador Robin Renée Sanders

Nigerian Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) Graduation

Abuja, Nigeria March 16, 2009
Remarks as prepared for delivery.

All protocols duly observed.

Good morning. At the outset, I would like to congratulate Minster John Odey on his recent appointment by President Yar’Adua as the Minister of Environment, Housing, and Urban Development. I wish you, Honorable Minster, success in the many opportunities and challenges your new appointment brings, and I look forward to working with you in areas of mutual interest.

I would also like to thank Dr. Bamidele Ajakaiye, the Director General of the Nigerian Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), for his strong leadership and commitment in building this young organization. Your leadership is very important for an economically and environmentally sustainable oil and gas industry in Nigeria.

I also want to recognize and congratulate each and every one of the graduates here today for successfully completing this U.S. Government funded course on Oil Spill Detection and Recovery. As environmental officers, you are the first responders to assess the disasters that oil spills can cause. You lead all efforts to mitigate their impact, and you restore areas that they have impacted. You are also entrusted with prevention; that is managing risks so that they do not eventually cause oil spills. It is my sincere hope that the skills and knowledge you have acquired through this three-week course will enable you to perform your important duties more effectively and efficiently.

But your technical and scientific skills are only one element of the arsenal you will need to conduct your duties to the best of your abilities. You will also need to develop close working relationships with counterparts in the oil and gas industry, and with federal, state, and local law enforcement and other emergency responders. Most importantly, you will need to work with the communities that are disproportionately impacted by oil spills, particularly in the Niger Delta.
Nigeria, as we all know, is endowed with vast oil and gas reserves. It is crucial that these resources are tapped in an economically and ecologically sustainable manner that does not jeopardize the livelihoods of the people and their environment. Every year, unacceptable levels of oil spills occur from deteriorating oil and gas infrastructure, industrial accidents and incidents, and illegal activity normally referred to as “bunkering.” Addressing these challenges requires the commitment and cooperation of all.

The U.S. Government will continue to partner with you, providing you with technical assistance for capacity-building and fostering dialogue among all stakeholders. Let me again thank our partners, the Ministry of Environment, Housing, and Urban Development, and NOSDRA. I congratulate all of you and wish you continued success in this very important work that you do.

Thank You!