Melvin P. Foote is a distinguished advocate for the African Diaspora and one of the foremost experts on U.S.-Africa relations. With over four decades of experience, he has devoted his career to advancing policy, development, and leadership initiatives that strengthen ties between Africa and the United States while empowering diaspora communities across the globe.

Mr. Foote began his international career as a Peace Corps volunteer and teacher in Eritrea, later serving as the Somalia Country Director for Africare, where he led humanitarian and development programs for refugees and rural communities. He went on to serve as Africare’s Director of Development and Constituency Development at its Washington, D.C. headquarters. His efforts in this role led to the founding of the Constituency for Africa (CFA), a premier organization dedicated to mobilizing the African diaspora and influencing U.S. policy toward Africa.

As the founder and president of CFA, Mr. Foote has advised multiple U.S. administrations, built strategic partnerships, and played an instrumental role in shaping key initiatives including the creation of the African Union Mission in Washington, D.C. and the passage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). His work has significantly advanced trade, governance, and development efforts across the continent.

Under his leadership, CFA remains a driving force in fostering collaboration between African nations, the U.S. government, civil society, and the private sector ensuring that diaspora voices remain central to the future of Africa-U.S. engagement.