Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) addressed the Africa Chiefs of Defense (CHOD) Conference on June 25, 2024, stating the importance of U.S.-Africa collaboration in fostering global security and development.
In her remarks, Coleman emphasized the integration of diplomacy, defense, and development—the 3D’s—as the foundation of American foreign policy.
Coleman lauded the major strides in development across Africa, noting remarkable improvements in health, governance, and economic growth.
She stated the critical role of USAID in supporting sustainable development and emergency response efforts, such as in Somalia and Nigeria, where USAID has actively engaged with local communities to stabilize and rebuild conflict-affected areas.
She also recognized the transformative impact of USAID’s partnerships, like the Prosper Africa initiative, which has generated nearly $90 billion in trade and investment across the continent since 2019.
Addressing ongoing challenges such as conflict, displacement, and food insecurity, Coleman called for continued and enhanced collaboration between civilian and military sectors to create a secure and prosperous world.
She stressed the need for a comprehensive civil-military approach to address underlying social, economic, and political issues that drive conflict, advocating for the integration of human security with national security.
