Kamlager-Dove, Kim Celebrate Bipartisan Committee Passage of YALI Act

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) and Young Kim (R-CA) celebrated the House Foreign Affairs Committee's passage of their bipartisan Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Act, legislation that codifies the United States' signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) co-lead the companion bill in the Senate.

Rep. Kamlager-Dove spoke in support of this bill during markup. Full remarks can be viewed here.

"YALI recognizes the unique role that Africa's young people will play in shaping the future of the continent, and by extension the world, as the fastest-growing population on the planet," said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. "After the Office of Management and Budget's interference cancelled the 2026 cohort of YALI fellows, providing this program with statutory authority is more important than ever. Passing this bill through committee with bipartisan support reaffirms Congress' responsibility to serve as the enduring partner in our bilateral relationships, investing in the people-to-people ties that will outlast any one administration and all of us."

"People-to-people diplomacy is how we build relationships and ensure the United States is the partner of choice for allies and partners," said Rep. Kim. "The State Department's Young African Leaders Initiative has proven to strengthen democracy, prosperity, and peace in the region while supporting young Africans making a difference in their communities. I thank Rep. Kamlager-Dove for working with me on this bill."

With a median age of 19, the continent is home to the world's youngest population. Recognizing the immense potential of this rising generation of change-makers, YALI was launched in 2010 to support young African leaders as they spur growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and security across sub-Saharan Africa. This legislation reaffirms the United States' commitment to investing in Africa's youth, promoting initiatives to enhance leadership skills, support entrepreneurship, and strengthen U.S.-Africa people-to-people ties.

Bill text can be viewed here.

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