U.S. State and Local Government: A Regional Project for Africa
- Brenda Gao
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
From June 10-13, 2026, Global Ties Iowa had the pleasure of hosting a dynamic delegation of leaders from across Africa for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project, “U.S. State and Local Government.” Over their four days in eastern Iowa, participants explored how local governments function within the U.S. federal system with a focus on governance, public service delivery, economic development, and civic engagement.
The delegation brought together policymakers and civic leaders from Algeria, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa, each contributing unique professional perspectives and a shared interest in strengthening government systems in their home countries.
A Warm Welcome to Iowa
The group arrived in Cedar Rapids on June 10, where Global Ties Iowa volunteers Eddy and Mary Gregg welcomed them at the Eastern Iowa Airport and assisted with their transition to Iowa City. The opening moments of the program reflected the spirit of Iowa hospitality and set the foundation for meaningful engagement throughout the visit.
Local Government in Practice
Programming began the following morning with breakfast at the Element Hotel with Executive Director Amy Alice Chastain, who shared her global experience and emphasized the importance of building diplomacy through personal connection.
Accompanied by volunteer Mary, the delegation then walked to the Johnson County Attorney’s Office for an in-depth discussion with Johnson County Attorney Rachel Zimmermann Smith, County Treasurer Scott Finlayson, County Sheriff Brad Kunkel, and Board of Supervisors Chair Jon Green. This session provided a comprehensive look at the roles and responsibilities of county leadership, including law enforcement, taxation, and the delivery of local services, as well as how these entities work together to promote accountability and community trust.
Collaboration for Economic Development
Later that day, the group traveled to Cedar Rapids with volunteer Lynn Hanson Ouedraogo for discussions centered on economic growth and public-sector collaboration. At Iowa Workforce Development, participants met with Shelby Hollett, Business Engagement Consultant, who outlined how partnerships between state and local entities support workforce readiness
and strengthen regional economies.
The day continued at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, where Public Policy Strategist Barbra Solberg introduced the organization’s integrated approach to business support, public policy, and community development. The discussion highlighted how coordinated regional efforts can create sustainable economic opportunities and enhance quality of life.
Media, Governance, and Bipartisanship
Friday’s programming began in North Liberty, where the delegation, accompanied by volunteer Catherine Tran, visited Corridor Business Journal. There, Richard Pratt led a conversation on the critical role that independent media plays in supporting transparency, civic engagement, and informed decision-making in both business and government.
In the afternoon, the group traveled to the Cedar Rapids Public Library for a conversation with Iowa State Representatives Cindy Golding and Elinor Levin. Their discussion focused on policymaking within a federal system and emphasized the importance of bipartisanship in addressing complex community challenges. This meeting offered participants a valuable perspective on how differing viewpoints can come together to advance shared goals.
Iowa Table Dinners: Building Connections
A highlight of the program was the Iowa Table Dinner experience, which provided an opportunity for participants to engage more personally with members of the community. One group was welcomed into the home of Meredith Rahn-Oakes, whose background in healthcare quality improvement and political campaigns sparked thoughtful conversation. The second group was hosted by Liz Bergeron and Lynn, whose international experiences in linguistics, education, and public diplomacy enriched the evening with global perspectives and shared stories.
These gatherings offered a meaningful complement to the formal program, allowing participants to experience everyday life in Iowa while building lasting personal and professional relationships.
A Meaningful Exchange
On June 13, the delegation departed eastern Iowa, bringing this program to a close. In just a few days, participants engaged deeply with local leaders and institutions, gaining insight into how governance, media, and economic development intersect at the state and local levels.
Thank You
This program would not have been possible without the generosity and expertise of our community partners:
Johnson County Attorney’s Office
Iowa Workforce Development
Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
Corridor Business Journal
Representatives Cindy Golding and Elinor Levin
And our dedicated volunteers:
Eddy Djagou
Mary Gregg
Lynn Hanson Ouedraogo
Catherine Tran
Meredith Rahn-Oakes
Liz Bergeron
Your commitment to citizen diplomacy helps us continue connecting the world and the heartland. We look forward to sharing more volunteer opportunities in the near future!