The African Perspectives discussion series is a multi-year initiative, conceived by the Africa-America Institute, to provide a means through which Africans can discuss and debate policy issues among themselves and inform and shape U.S. and Western policies toward Africa. Through the use of discussion sessions in Africa and on-line dialogues, AAI elicits a broad cross-section of African viewpoints on specific topics related to U.S. policy toward Africa. AAI then summarizes and analyzes these viewpoints to draw out implications for U.S. policy, and disseminates to U.S. policymakers, the news media and others working on matters related to Africa. The dual objective of this program is to inform U.S. policy by heightening policymakers' understanding of their decisions vis-à-vis Africa and to stimulate civil society participation and debate in Africa. Past topics include Western policy approaches to HIV/AIDS in Africa and the link between trade and development.AAI's African Perspectives program is a core component of the organization's program portfolio. Utilizing its unsurpassed access on the African continent, which includes a presence in 50 African countries and an alumni network that cuts across all sectors of society, this program can by utilized by corporations, foundations, and government organizations desiring "on-the-ground" perspectives from African nationals on topics critical to their operational activities.