October 13, 2014 — Ebola, U.S. counterterrorism operations in Somalia and the potential drone base in Niger are just some of the recent events in Africa that have been making headlines recently. To explore the continent, economic development and the future of Africa, the University of Utah’s Hinckley Institute of Politics and the Council of American Ambassadors will host a summit, Oct. 20- 21 in the Spencer Fox Business Building at the U campus.

“In our increasingly globalized world, Africa’s economic potential, security issues and health care challenges have a far-reaching impact,” said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute. “This summit will provide a critical forum for dialogue regarding potential partnerships and solutions.”

The conference, “Africa’s Future in the Global Economy,” will feature Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield who will address her office’s mission to partner with Africans for “democracy, peace and prosperity.” Fifteen former U.S. ambassadors and a leading expert on Ebola will also speak. The event is free and open to the public.

“This conference will provide an invaluable opportunity to hear from key experts on arguably the most dynamic region of the 21st century,” added Jowers.