Bill · S. 2236· Senate(119-S-2236)
YALI Act of 2026
- Introduced
- 7/10/2025
- Last activity
- 2/10/2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 324.
- Sponsored by
- Chris Van Hollen
- Cosponsors
- - 0 - 1
- Introduced
- On Calendar
What this bill would do
This bill establishes the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) to be carried out by the Secretary of State. The program aims to build the capacity of young leaders in sub-Saharan Africa through training in business, civic engagement, or public administration. It includes support for the Mandela Washington Fellowship and the establishment of regional leadership centers. The initiative seeks to foster economic growth, strengthen ties between United States and African businesses, and enhance peace and security. Implementation requires a detailed plan and annual reports to congressional committees. The program is set to expire five years after the date of enactment.
Yes· 3 of 6
Would people in their twenties and thirties be better off under this?+8
The bill specifically targets and provides professional development for individuals between ages 18 and 35.
Does this send more money or help to other countries?+7
The bill establishes a significant initiative to build capacity and provide technical assistance to young African leaders.
Does this strengthen ties with allied countries?+6
It seeks to strengthen ties and partnerships between the United States and Africa.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Professional Development for Young Leaders: The bill seeks to offer training and networking in areas such as leadership, innovation, human rights, and entrepreneurship to help young leaders build their skills (Section 3(b)(1)).
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Economic Growth and Stability: By providing technical assistance in areas like budget management, anti-corruption, and contract negotiations, the initiative aims to promote economic growth and build resilience to predatory lending (Section 3(b)(2)).
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Educational Opportunities via Fellowships: The bill supports the Mandela Washington Fellowship, which allows qualified individuals between the ages of 25 and 35 to participate in a 6-week Leadership Institute at a United States educational institution (Section 3(c)(1) and 3(e)(1)(A)).
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Strengthened International Connections: The initiative facilitates reciprocal exchanges, allowing United States citizens to collaborate on projects with fellowship alumni (Section 3(d)).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Program Expiration: The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning the entire initiative shall cease to have effect five years after the date of the Act's enactment (Section 3(i)).
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Increases Foreign Aid+7Improves Diplomatic Engagement+6Improves International Alliances+6Improves International Trade+5
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Young Adults+8Good For Students+5
- 2/10/2026
- Committee on Foreign Relations. Reported by Senator Risch with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. Without written report.
- Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 324.
- 1/29/2026
- Committee on Foreign Relations. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- 7/10/2025
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- Introduced in Senate
One bill Congress.gov lists as related to this one — companions in the other chamber, earlier versions, and bills this one absorbed or was folded into.
Mike RoundsRepublican · South Dakota