H.R. 965

Young African Leaders Initiative Act of 2021 or the YALI Act of 2021

This bill provides statutory authority for the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), which seeks to build the capacity of young African leaders in sub-Saharan Africa in the areas of business, civic engagement, or public administration.

The YALI program must support the participation of fellows from Africa in the Mandela Washington Fellowships for Young African Leaders and offer training through regional leadership centers in sub-Saharan Africa to individuals who have demonstrated strong capabilities in entrepreneurship, innovation, public service and leadership, and peace building and conflict resolution.

The Department of State must oversee all U.S.-based activities carried out under the program, and the United States should continue to support program initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa. The State Department must also submit a plan for implementing the program and annual reports on program progress and recommendations for improvements or changes to the program.