Senator Pledges Support for AGOA Renewal as South Africa Spotlights Atlanta

In a recent meeting at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock committed to promoting the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act as a part of his push to improve ties with Africa.

Support for AGOA

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a trade act enacted by the U.S. in 2000. It provides over 1,800 product categories manufactured in Africa with duty-free access to the U.S. market. However, without action from Congress, the AGOA will expire in 2025. Sen. Warnock, a Democrat from Georgia, offered his support during an influential meeting with a South African delegation. “You can hear my commitment to making sure that happens,” said Mr. Warnock to applause from the crowd, underlining his dedication to the cause.

Atlanta Phambili Mission

Supported by U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety and in partnership with Prosper Africa, the delegation’s journey was termed “Atlanta Phambili,” with Phambili being the Zulu word for “forward”. The initiative aims to make Atlanta a focal point in the U.S.-South Africa relationship, leveraging its Black business successes, strong historically black colleges, and African diaspora communities for a rich ecosystem.

Shared History and Pursuit for Partnership

Warnock extended the interconnection beyond just economic interests and highlighted the shared history, struggle against oppression, and the continuous pursuit of equality by African countries and the U.S state of Georgia. The Senator also drew parallels between civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr’s influence on South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement and the racial equality struggles faced in Georgia. He further emphasized the shared aspirations and resilience that both Atlanta and South Africa possess in their quest for more inclusive economic growth.

The Business Perspective

While the current trade between Atlanta and South Africa is over $240 million, U.S Ambassador Brigety believes this barely scratches the surface of its potential. He highlighted that ongoing efforts from initiatives such as Atlanta Phambili need to be further strengthened to drive more investment and trade growth. International firm Equinix’s $160 million data center in Johannesburg was mentioned as an example of an increased vote of confidence in South Africa’s skilled workforce and the bilateral relationship’s future.

The Impact of AGOA Renewal

Zanele Sanni, Executive Head for export promotion at South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition, appreciated Senator Warnock’s support for AGOA. She believes that the renewal of AGOA is crucial for her team and other stakeholders as they continue promoting South African products worldwide. “I don’t think there’s a better piece of news that we could take back home coming out of this engagement here.”

Other Initiatives

In addition to his support for AGOA, Senator Warnock also pledged to extend the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR, beyond the one year that Congress has approved. This funding, initiated in 2003 by President George W. Bush for antiretroviral drugs and AIDS education, has been credited with saving 25 million lives across the continent. “It is so very necessary, and, in my view, short-sighted that my colleagues in the House have so far re-authorized it for one year,” said Mr. Warnock.