US and African Union Launch Strategic Investment Working Group

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The United States government and the African Union Commission have agreed to establish a US-AUC Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group (SIWG) to identify and advance opportunities for US private sector investment in AU-backed infrastructure projects across Africa. The SIWG will focus on enabling trade and logistics infrastructure, digital transformation, critical minerals and commodities supply chains, energy networks, and regulatory harmonization to increase two-way trade and improve health security.

Why it matters

This new working group represents a strategic shift in the US-Africa relationship, moving beyond traditional foreign aid towards mutually beneficial economic partnerships and private sector investment. It aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and its priorities around infrastructure development and the African Continental Free Trade Area, which are seen as critical to driving economic growth and prosperity across the continent.

The details

US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf met in Addis Ababa to establish the SIWG. The group will serve as a platform for senior US government officials and AUC technical experts to identify and advance US private sector investment opportunities in AU-backed infrastructure projects and related initiatives. This includes developing critical minerals and commodities supply chains, transportation corridors, energy networks, and regulatory harmonization, as well as increasing two-way trade, securing digital infrastructure, and improving health security.

• The meeting between US and AUC officials took place on January 28, 2026.

What’s next

The US-AUC Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group (SIWG) will begin meeting regularly to identify and advance specific investment opportunities that align with the shared strategic priorities of the United States and the African Union.