Let's talk Togo. Judd and Nicole are joined by Désiré Assogbavi (ONE Campaign) to discuss job creation, the need for value-added agriculture, and how to tackle the issue of illicit financial flows. Plus, how to avoid takeout deals and get the news you want when searching “Togo” online.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Zenaida Machado (Human Rights Watch) to discuss Angola’s anti-corruption campaign, economic diversification, and contributions to peacekeeping, recommending U.S. policy that treats the nation as an equal partner and the versatile Angolan musician, Matias Damásio.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Michelle Gavin (Council on Foreign Relations) to discuss opportunities that stem from shared interests in the U.S. and Botswana, recommending that the Biden administration approach Botswana as a flagship partner and proposing joint ventures such as water conservation projects in regions beyond southern Africa.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Cebelihle Mbuyisa (New Frame) for a special episode on eSwatini, discussing the recent protests and brutal government crackdown, and recommending that the U.S. government amplify the voices of those fighting for change. Cebelihle, a journalist covering pro-democracy protests, recounts his experiences as a victim of police brutality and highlights the experiences of fellow citizens in this critical moment.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Silence Charumbira (Lesotho Times and Sunday Express) to discuss opportunities for U.S. engagement with Lesotho, including leveraging the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). They also point to cooperation in the health sector and admire Lesotho’s captivating poetry scene.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Johnnie Carson (U.S. Institute of Peace) to discuss Malawi’s democracy, recommending a rebuilding of U.S-Malawi relationships, invitations to the Summit for Democracy, and recognition of the Malawian Supreme Court. Plus, why U.S. diplomats should dance.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Zenaida Machado (Human Rights Watch) to discuss U.S. policy towards Mozambique on issues ranging from counterterrorism to climate change mitigation and adaptation, recommending holistic approaches to addressing developmental issues and mouthwatering mukapata and prawn dishes.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Shinovene Immanuel (The Namibian) to discuss the cordial but neglected relations of the U.S. and Namibia, recommending that the U.S. launch creative pilot projects in Namibia, approach Namibia as an interlocutor in the region, and invest in education. Plus, why Namibians didn’t take it too seriously when President Trump call their country “Nambia.”.

Judd and Nicole are joined by Michelle Gavin (Council on Foreign Relations) to discuss partnership and humility in U.S. policy toward South Africa, recommending personal relationships between the two nations and imagining a dinner party with South African luminaries

Judd and Nicole are joined by O’Brien Kaaba (University of Zambia) to discuss U.S. historical support for democracy, highlighting missed opportunities for U.S. involvement in protecting the rights of Zambian citizens. They recommend engagement with Zambia’s civil society ahead of elections in August 2021 and share an appreciation of Zamrock music.