Administrator Samantha Power travels to Zambia and Malawi from June 28 to July 3. In both countries, the Administrator will meet with local farmers, agri business owners and government officials to discuss the impact of Russia’s war against Ukraine on food security and nutrition in the region. Throughout her trip, the Administrator will highlight the United States government support for the region's democratic advances and underscore how democratic governance, a strong civil society, robust anti-corruption efforts and a vibrant independent media strengthen institutional resilience and deliver tangible economic dividends for the people.

In Zambia, the Administrator will meet with President Hakainde Hichilema and key ministers to discuss Zambia’s democratic and economic reform priorities. Administrator Power will also meet with local journalists to discuss media freedom and access to information, and she will hear from youth leaders about their individual and collective work in determining the nation’s future. Administrator Power will visit a seed production cooperative that works with Zambian small scale farmers to produce improved seeds for market. She will also visit with local women farmers who are leveraging private sector partnerships to scale up production and now stand ready to help support food security on the domestic and international levels.

In Malawi, the Administrator will meet with President Lazarus Chakwera to reinforce U.S. support for Malawi’s commitment to democracy and mutual development goals. She will also meet with anti-corruption leaders on their efforts to enhance government transparency and increase accountability to the citizenry. Administrator Power will visit an agricultural company that demonstrates how market-led approaches with the private sector can promote food security and climate adaptation. She will also spend time at the Lilongwe Wildlife Center to get a firsthand look at how a local organization is conserving and restoring natural habitats.