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We have just celebrated the 4th of July. During this holiday some reflect on what a great country we live in and the freedoms that we have to live, do, say and believe as we desire. But we should also be grateful for many things that we sometimes take for granted but that for others is unattainable.

`Africa Power Lines

Africa Power Lines

That is why I am writing this blog and urging all those that read it to support
Electrify Africa Act of 2013. As the act states lack of access to affordable and reliable electricity prevents Africa’s economy from growing and stifles poverty alleviation.

This bipartisan legislation is to create a strategic approach to support affordable, reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa to unlock the potential for economic growth, job creation, improved health and education, and poverty reduction. Here is what the Act does:

  • The Electrify Africa Act of 2013 will declare that it is the policy of the United States to encourage access to electricity in sub-Saharan Africa;
  • Require that the Administration create a comprehensive strategy to help increase electricity in sub-Saharan Africa;
  • Encourages USAID to use existing tools like loan guarantees, partnerships and grants to increase electricity in sub-Saharan Africa;
  • Directs the Treasury Department to persuade the World Bank and African Development Bank to increase electrification investments in sub-Saharan Africa;
  • Instructs the Overseas Private Investment Corporation to prioritize electrical sector investments in sub-Saharan Africa; and
  • Calls on the Trade and Development Agency to encourage broader private sector engagement in the sub-Saharan Africa electricity sector.
  • The bill also ensures that the U.S. government has a clear strategy in place at no additional cost to the U.S. taxpayer

If you would like to voice your support for this Act click HERE to sign the petition.