In celebration of the Decade of the African Woman and Women’s History Month, the Bureau of African Affairs and the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues will host a panel discussion: “Women Taking Charge in Africa” on women’s roles in brokering peace, overcoming injustices, and as drivers of development and economic growth. Panelists will highlight the support that the United States has given to these efforts.

Panelists include Ambassador Melanne Verveer of the Office of Global Women’s Issues, Susan Page, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, and Carla Koppel, Director of the Institute of Inclusive Security. Cheryl Benton, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, will serve as the moderator.

The discussion will take place on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 3:00 pm in the Loy Henderson Auditorium at the U.S. Department of State. The event is open to all members of the press.

Media Contact: Marissa Rollens, rollensmk@state.gov, 202-663-0531.