Affectionately called  "Mr. Africa" in acknowledgment of his unwavering  interest in all developments pertaining to Africa in the United States Congress, the late Congressman Donald Payne Sr. from New Jersey served for 24 years in the US Congress, becoming the Chair and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Human Rights. The Congressional Black Caucus relied on  Congressman Payne as the point man for Africa. His keen knowledge, convictions, ties and  interest in putting Africa's agenda on the table are remarkable embodiment of Africa's Champion on the Hill. 

Honoring Denise Rolark Barnes

They served, they returned,  but never left Africa.  These are men and women of all races who maintain their connection to the Continent of Africa as former Peace Corps volunteers, which began in 1961 under President John F. Kennedy.  Organized as Friends of the Country in which they served,  they undertook ground-breaking developments in an adventure of  opportunities to make a real difference in the communities while culturally immersed in the traditions. The non-partisan organizations foster friendship, goodwill and understanding between the people of the United States and Africa through the links in the countries they served. The associations, based of their response to needs, provide education, socioeconomic, cultural exchange services to the respective countries.