YALI Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Young African Leaders Initiative Act of 2025 , establishes a comprehensive United States Government initiative to build the capacity of young leaders and entrepreneurs across Africa. Carried out by the Secretary of State and the Administrator of USAID, the program aims to enhance leadership skills, encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen public administration, and promote peace and security. It seeks to support young African leaders in areas such as business, civic engagement, and good governance, fostering stronger ties between the U.S. and African nations. Key provisions include supporting the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, which brings participants aged 25-35 to the U.S. for leadership institutes and an annual summit. Additionally, USAID is directed to establish at least four regional leadership centers in sub-Saharan Africa, offering year-round training to young leaders aged 18-35. The initiative also facilitates reciprocal exchanges for U.S. citizens with YALI alumni, provides continued professional development and networking opportunities in Africa, and requires an implementation plan and annual reports to Congress on its effectiveness and impact on U.S.-Africa relations. The program is set to sunset five years after enactment.