The program with Ambassador Mike Hammer could not be more timely given the escalating crisis in Sudan which many worry could lead to increasing unrest throughout a region which is already dealing with millions of displaced people, civil unrest and food insecurity. In remarks last June, Secretary of State Blinken said, “(Hammer’s) appointment underscores our abiding commitment to diplomatic efforts in the region….”
An issue demonstrating the region’s complexity is the conflict over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. The largest hydroelectric project in Africa is generating friction between Ethiopia and downstream Egypt and Sudan. United Nations mediation thus far has achieved limited success. It is not surprising that Russia, China and the U.S. compete for influence in this region with weak, unstable governments. It should also be noted that the U.S. military maintains a significant presence in Djibouti, operating the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa out of its headquarters at Camp Lemonnier, a base of operations to combat potential terrorist threats. Join us to discuss with Ambassador Hammer his critical and troublesome portfolio.
Ambassador Mike Hammer serves as the United States Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa. A career member of the United States Foreign Service, Hammer previously served as ambassador to Chile and as ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Wednesday, May 17, 5:30pm social followed by talk at 6:00pm moderated by Shawn McQueen MDT
Hotel Santa Fe, 1501 Paseo de Peralta in Santa Fe