Clinton pledges U.S. commitment to Africa

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reaffirmed America's commitment to Africa's future during speech at a trade conference in Kenya Wednesday.

Clinton spoke of economic initiatives that are working in Africa, saying countries can focus on good governance and women's rights as a way to grow economically, CNN reported.

"We believe in Africa's promise. We are committed to Africa's future and we will be partners with Africa's people," Clinton told representatives of more than 35 nations attending the African Growth and Opportunity Act conference.

"The social, political and economic marginalization of women across Africa has left a void in this continent that undermines progress and prosperity every day," she said. "Yet we know across Africa women are doing the work of a whole continent."

Clinton suggested African nations could increase trade opportunities by trading more within the continent.

"The nations of Africa trade the least with each other than any region of the world," Clinton said. "The biggest single opportunity you have right now is to open up trade with each other."

After her remarks, Clinton was expected to meet with Kenyan leaders, who have been critical of the United States, saying Kenya doesn't need others telling it how to govern itself, CNN said

Clinton's agenda also included possible visits to South Africa, Nigeria and Liberia.