Nancy Kassebaum: “I have been speaking a number of times on why Africa matters to the United States. I spoke before the recess on…”

“I have been speaking a number of times on why Africa matters to the United States. I spoke before the recess on infectious disease and environmental concerns and how what is happening in Africa can affect the rest of the world, and the United States as well. Today, I would like to address a broader point about environmental issues--what happens to the natural world in Africa holds consequences for Americans. Even as we struggle to find reasonable, responsible solutions to domestic environmental problems, we must remember that our future is closely intertwined with the preservation and sound management of the environment around the world--particularly in Africa. Today much of Africa today is caught in a cycle of environmental degradation, poverty and humanitarian crises. Battles over scarce resources can lead to political conflict, which in turn results in forced migration, and further environmental destruction. As a result, the international community feels the effects of not only global environmental changes, but also refugee flows, instability, and sagging trade revenues. Mr. President, the evidence of environmental degradation on the African continent is overwhelming.”