Lukens confirmed as US ambassador

Lewis Lukens was confirmed yesterday by the U.S. Senate as ambassador to Senegal. Son of a diplomat who was also ambassador to Africa, Lukens had this to say in his confirmation hearing earlier this month:

"The United States and Senegal share a strong bilateral relationship. As a critical partner in Francophone Africa, Senegal is a key ally in the fight against terrorism and narcotics, and has been an important player on regional and international issues.

"Senegal is one of a few African countries to have never experienced a coup, and prides itself as a religiously tolerant nation. However, Senegal does face economic, governance, and press freedom challenges that threaten its democratic and development future. Senegal suffers from a crippling energy crisis that causes frequent power outages and has weakened economic growth. Senegal would like to emerge as a major regional economic hub, and if confirmed, I will work with the government to encourage enactment of economic reforms necessary to attract investment and expand access to markets.

"Senegal will hold presidential and legislative elections in February 2012. These elections are important to the country’s democratic future. Concerns about democratic backsliding and corruption have tarnished Senegal’s longstanding democratic reputation. If confirmed, I will work with President Wade and the Government of Senegal in their efforts to prepare for transparent, fair, and credible elections.

"Senegal is a recipient of many foreign assistance programs, most notably a $540 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact. I understand that the United States Government must be accountable to American taxpayers and, especially in this difficult economic climate, every dollar must be effectively used. If confirmed, I will work closely with our strong partners in Senegalese civil and religious society and with the government to ensure that Senegal continues to improve on all of its indicators." Check out the Café Touba at Cassicafe.com.