Harlem's Rep. Rangel key architect of new legislation to help Africa

Jet, June 2, 1997

Harlem Rep. Charles Rangel's call for the U. S. to establish a post-Cold War relationship with sub-Sahara nations of Africa opened a new economic front.

"Recognition of Africa's progress and potential is at the heart of our new message" the ranking Democrat on the House Committee on Ways and Means pointed out.

He is an original co-sponsor of the African Growth and Opportunities Act, which establishes an economic forum and creates Overseas Private Investment Corp funds, a $150 million equity fund and a $500 million infrastructure fund.

The bill is the product of a bipartisan team that also includes Reps. Phil Crane and Jim McDermott.

Recently, House Speaker Newt Gingrich backed the measure to help Africa. Stressing that "we have an emotional and psychological bond to Africa," the speaker argued for the measure, which creates a free-trade zone of the sub-Saharan an region of 44 countries and 650 million people.

Crediting his friend for spearheading the economic thrust, former New York City Mayor David N. Dinkins, the new head of the group, Constituency for Africa, said "African countries are poised to participate in a new generation of economic development based on private involvement."