The Africa First Initiative and Local Procurement
Abstract
The strategic importance of Africa to the United States has grown significantly. Camp Lemonnier, a naval-led military installation, is located in Djibouti and is vital to the strategic success of the United States in Africa. In order to strengthen U.S.-Djibouti ties and solidify an enduring presence in Africa, the Department of Defense implemented the Djibouti First Initiative. Under the initiative, local vendors received preference for resources and products needed at Camp Lemonnier. In 2017, the FY17 National Defense Authorization Act replaced the Djibouti First Initiative with Africa First. The new policy extends the authority to limit competition and provide host nation preference to contracts awarded in support of US operations in Africa. As Africa First expands its reach, the U.S. must first decipher which African countries can offer suppliers who are eligible, and second, work to standardize the processes for finding vendors within each country. The mixed methodology research focuses on the challenges and successes of the short-lived Djibouti First. The research findings are then used to create a framework which decision makers can use to help shape future supplier partnerships in Africa.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 22, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1056346
Entities
People
- Rachel E. Herald
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology