Why Africa Matters to the US and the World
A look at Africa's emerging role on the world stage.
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Boundless Opportunity - President Obama is heading to Africa for a week-long visit to Senegal, South Africa and Tanzania. All eyes will be on the continent and how it is grappling with emerging democracies and investment and trade opportunities. Here's a look at why Africa is poised to play an increasingly bigger role on the world stage in terms of economic investment and global security. —Joyce Jones(Photo: Joshua Roberts-Pool/Getty Images)
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The Last Frontier - "You could fit the continental 48 states on the continent of Africa three times. It has close to a billion people, 54 countries and it's going to be the location in the world of some of the fastest-growing economies. Seven out of 10 of the fastest growing economies are on the continent," says Rep. Karen Bass, ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Africa subcommittee. (Photo: WikiCommons)
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Global Security - African governments that don't maintain control of their regions and fulfill the needs of their citizens can become breeding grounds for criminal and terrorist networks. "If economic conditions deteriorate, it could become a prime place where extremist groups can take root," said Bass. (Photo: AP Photo/Denis Farrell)
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Chinese Engagement - China's "no strings attached" approach poses a threat to the ability of the U.S. and other nations to promote democracy and sustainable development. Unchecked, some governments may be tempted to engage in corrupt activities and ignore humanitarian, environmental and other key issues. (Photo: Jason Lee - Pool/Getty Images)
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Economic Trade - Africa's ongoing growth, emerging middle class and 800 million consumers can create major export and investment opportunities, which would lead to jobs in the U.S. (Photo: REUTERS/Joe Penney)
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Environment - Africa has a key role to play in helping the world avoid further depletion of the ozone layer. (Photo: REUTERS/Thierry Gouegnon)
Photo By Photo: REUTERS/Thierry Gouegnon
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Natural Resources - Africa is rich in natural resources and has the number one reserve of a variety of minerals and metals, including diamonds, gold and cobalt. It also has the potential to be an alternative to the Middle East as a source of energy. (Photo: REUTERS/Afolabi Sotunde)