Malawi's president thanks US for renewing textile trade deal with Africa

The president of Malawi, Joyce Banda, used her keynote address Thursday at a Capitol Hill reception for the African diplomatic corps to thank Congress for this summer's vote renewing a trade deal that allows African countries to export textiles to the United States duty-free.

“Congress has demonstrated a resolve to assist the people of Africa, especially the thousands of women employed in the textile industry,” Banda said. “Africa needs partnership, not patronage.”

She called for more investment in her small southeast African country, saying doing so is in America's interest.

“Africa is indeed on the rise,” she said. “There is increasing optimism about Africa.”

Banda is on a 10-day trip to the United States and stopped in Washington, D.C., before heading to New York for the 67th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Thursday's luncheon was part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 42nd Annual Legislative Conference.

Malawi was on the verge of a transition crisis earlier this year when President Bingu wa Mutharika died suddenly in office. Banda, then the vice-president, won out in the end as called for under the nation's constitution; on Thursday she thanked the African diplomats at the luncheon who she said helped her behind the scenes.

Banda also used the opportunity to give a shout-out to former Rep. Donald Payne (D-N.J.), a longtime congressional leader on African affairs who died suddenly in March.

“Congressman Payne was a trusted and dedicated friend of Africa,” Banda said to loud applause. “We shall remain grateful” for his service.

The luncheon was hosted by Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), who has taken over Payne's place.

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