US Deputy Treasury Secretary, Neal Wolin, is expected to visit Rwanda, next week, to discuss strategies for poverty reduction and to boost Africa’s economic growth.

When contacted for comment, the Minister of Finance, James Musoni, said: "We are aware of his visit and it is aimed at embarking on African economic growth among others”.

Wolin will visit Rwanda, Tanzania and South Africa from October 28 to November 5, marking the first visit to Africa by a senior U.S. Treasury official since the Obama administration took office in January.

According to a statement, Wolin will meet with senior government officials where he will highlight US-African partnerships and President Barack Obama’s commitment to advance food security and growth from sustainable agriculture.

"The global financial crisis proved, if any one still doubted it -- that the economies of the world are inextricably intertwined,” Wolin said in the statement. "This trip will serve as an important opportunity to engage with our partners in Africa and discuss how we can best work together to promote strong, sustainable growth in years to come.”

He also will discuss strategies to bolster Africa’s infrastructure, strengthen its financial sector and improve its investment climate. 

Wolin, a veteran Treasury official during the Clinton administration who later served as a top executive for insurance giant The Hartford Financial Services Group Inc, has heavily concentrated on financial regulatory reform legislation since he was confirmed in May.

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