Category: Africa

Source: United States AFRICOM

At the request of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a collective self-defense airstrike against al-Shabaab on Dec. 31, 2024.

The airstrike occurred in Beer Xaani, Somalia, approximately 35 km northwest of Cooperative Security Location Kismayo.

The initial post-strike assessment indicated the airstrike killed 10 al-Shabaab militants while no civilians were harmed. 

In addition to the airstrike, U.S. forces provided support to Somali forces by evacuating Soldiers that were attacked while fighting the terrorist group.

Al-Shabaab has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. and partner forces. This terrorist group’s malicious efforts threaten U.S. and international security interests both in and outside the continent of Africa.

U.S. Africa Command, united alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to prevent al-Shabaab’s advancements in planning and conducting attacks in the region, which disproportionately harm civilians.

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa. 

The command will continue to assess the results of this airstrike and will provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released to ensure operational security.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, works with partners to counter malign actors and international threats, responds to crises, and strengthens security forces to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

Source: United States AFRICOM

On Dec. 24, in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted a precision airstrike approximately 10km southwest of Quyno Barrow that resulted in the death of senior al-Shabaab leader, Mohamed Mire and another al-Shabaab militant.

Mire, also known as Abu Abdirahman, was responsible for al-Shabaab’s regional governance in Somalia for the last 15 years. In addition to being one of al-Shabaab’s longest serving members, Mire served as the interior minister and played a key role in the group’s strategic decision-making.

 Based on the Command’s initial assessment, no civilians were harmed.

 “As our National Security Strategy outlines, America remains steadfast in countering the evolving threats of terrorism,” said U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, AFRICOM commander. “In 2024, the Global Terrorism Index highlighted that terrorist organizations remain a serious global threat. Al-Shabaab is one of these threats, and we partner with like-minded nations in the region to combat them and other malign actors. Uniting against these transnational threats promotes regional security, stability and prosperity.”

  On Oct. 17, 2022, the U.S. Department of State identified Mire as a specially designated global terrorist under Executive Order (E.O.) 13224.

 Due to operational security concerns, the specifics of the mission cannot be disclosed; however, the command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate.

Source: United States AFRICOM

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike against the al-Shabaab militant network in Somalia on Dec. 24, 2024.

 

The strike occurred approximately 10 km southwest of Quyno Barrow.

 

The command’s initial assessment is that the strike killed two al-Shabaab militants and no civilians were harmed.

 

U.S. Africa Command takes great measures to prevent civilian harm.

Protecting innocent civilians remains a vital part of the command’s operations to promote a more secure and stable Africa.

 

Somalia remains central to the security environment in East Africa. U.S.

Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to degrade al- Shabaab.

 

The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate. Specific details about the units involved and assets used will not be released to ensure operational security.

 

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, works with partners to counter malign actors and international threats, responds to crises, and strengthens security forces to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

 

Source: United States AFRICOM

BANGUI, Central African Republic (CAR) – U.S. Africa Command’s Office of Inspector General (IG) and Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) took part in a professional military exchange with the Office of Inspector General, Dec. 5-6, in Bangui. The office falls under the country’s Ministry of Defence.

 

The U.S. visit began with meetings on Dec. 4. U.S. Ambassador to the Central African Republic Patricia Mahoney and AFRICOM’s delegation led by Col. Valentin Maldonado III, Inspector General, and Lt. Col. Justin Barnes, attorney for the Office of Legal Counsel, met with the country’s Defence Minister Rameaux-Claude Bireau; Gen. Leopold Bruno Izamo, Inspector General; and Gen. Zephlin Mamadou, Chief of General Staff of the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA).

 

The Central African Republic’s Ministry of Defence has outlined its vision for the Office of Inspector General and is working to further develop and implement that vision. The professional military exchange provided an opportunity for thoughtful discussions about the role of the Inspector General and Legal Advisors in ensuring accountability and ethical conduct within military operations. 

 

“This mission of the Inspector General’s office is pivotal to the longevity of any organization, especially within the realm of defense,” said Maldonado. “As the leader of an office designed to promote efficiency, effectiveness and operational integrity through impactful audits, evaluations, investigations, and reviews, I am pleased to have the opportunity to discuss our processes, which promote accountability and ethical conduct within military operations.”

 

“A professional, accountable military is essential to maintaining legitimacy and trust,” said Barnes. “Engaging with our IG and legal counterparts from the Central African Republic is an important step in fostering the concepts of transparency, internal governance and rule of law, which support equality of all citizens before the law. These concepts are foundational to professional militaries.”

 

During the exchange, AFRICOM’s delegates discussed the relationship between the IG, Legal Advisors, and military commanders, which is vital in responding to emerging challenges and a necessary component in developing an effective system of military justice. The group also shared the history, evolution, structure and current role of the IG as well as legal discussions on military justice and its foundations, taught, in part, by Capt. Charles Blanton, International law officer for the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) Civil Affairs Battalion, Forward Detachment.

 

Central African Republic representatives, in turn, shared their vision and progress toward developing a comprehensive IG program.

 

“At the center of the U.S. government’s partnership with the Central African Republic is our shared goal of strengthening the foundations of the FACA so that it can protect the human rights, democratic values, and rule of law that benefit all Central Africans,” said U.S. Ambassador to the Central African Republic Patricia Mahoney.

 

Beyond this week’s military to military exchange, the United States is committed to supporting the Central African Republic as it implements reforms to enhance its judicial system. U.S.-funded programs have concentrated on building the capacity of internal security forces and supporting the rule of law. For example, the American Bar Association’s Rule of Law Initiative has provided legal aid clinics in rural communities and supported criminal courts. Specifically, the creation of the Special Criminal Court has helped deliver justice for victims of violent crimes. Additionally, USAID development assistance projects and Embassy Public Affairs grants in the Central African Republic include programs to strengthen human rights and reduce intercommunal tension and armed group violence.

 

U.S. Africa Command, one of 11 U.S. Department of Defense combatant commands, is responsible for employing broad-reaching diplomacy, development, and defense approaches to foster partnership efforts to promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. U.S. AFRICOM’s area of responsibility consists of 53 African states, more than 800 ethnic groups, over 1,000 languages, vast natural resources, a land mass that is three-and-a-half times the size of the U.S., and nearly 19,000 miles of coastland. Working alongside its partners, AFRICOM counters transnational threats and malign actors, strengthens security forces and responds to crises.

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Air Force Major General Kenneth Ekman, Director, AFRICOM Coordination Element (ACE), met with Minister of Security and Civil Protection Calixte Batossie Madjoulba and Chief of Defense Staff Brigadier General Dimini Allahare during his visit to Togo, Nov 15-19, 2024.  

 

This visit to Togo underscores the strong U.S.-Togolese security partnership, focused on strengthening Togo’s military capabilities and enhancing regional security through capacity building and operational cooperation.

 

“The partnership between AFRICOM and the Togolese military is essential in promoting peace and security across the West African region,” said Maj. Gen. Ekman. “By strengthening this relationship, we not only enhance Togo’s defense capabilities but also ensure a united and effective approach to addressing the complex security challenges we face together.”

 

The visit to Togo emphasizes the growing importance of the relationship between AFRICOM and the Togolese military in ensuring regional security. As West Africa faces increasing threats from violent extremist organizations and transnational crime, strong partnerships with nations like Togo are crucial for fostering collective security and stability. 

 

“Togo’s strategic location in West Africa makes its military a key partner in regional security efforts,” said Maj. Gen. Ekman.  “Our continued collaboration with the Togolese Armed Forces demonstrates a shared commitment to enhancing stability, fighting extremism, and improving overall security in this important region.”

 

AFRICOM’s support helps enhance the Togolese military’s operational capabilities, training, and readiness, enabling them to better address security challenges at both the national and regional levels. This collaboration also strengthens regional defense networks, allowing for more coordinated and effective responses to emerging threats.

 

The North Dakota National Guard has a long-standing partnership with Togo through the U.S. Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program (SPP). This collaboration strengthens military-to-military ties by facilitating joint training, sharing expertise, and providing support to enhance Togo’s defense capabilities. Through this partnership, North Dakota National Guard units work closely with their Togolese counterparts to improve operational readiness, foster regional security, and promote stability in West Africa, while also enhancing institutional ties between North Dakota and Togo.

 

The AFRICOM Coordination Element (ACE) is part of AFRICOM, a unified combatant command responsible for U.S. military activities across the African continent. The ACE is responsible for supporting AFRICOM’s mission in West Africa by enhancing coordination, communication, and integration with various U.S. government agencies, host nations, and international partners.

 

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, and security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration. For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil.

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Air Force Major General Kenneth Ekman, Director, AFRICOM Coordination Element (ACE), met with Minister of National Defence Fortunet Mr. Alain Nouatin and Chief of Defence Staff Major General Fructueux Gbaguidi in Benin.  He visited Parakou Base, conducting engagements with Operation Mirador leaders and 2nd Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Lucien Hounsou and observing U.S.-funded Border Security Training of Forces Aériennes Béninoises (FAB) soldiers, Oct. 28-31, 2024.

General Ekman’s visit highlights the continued U.S. commitment to strengthening partnerships along coastal West Africa, with a focus on enhancing regional security through operational support and capacity-building initiatives with the FAB.

“Strengthening our partnerships along coastal West Africa is not just about security, it’s about building lasting relationships that ensure stability across the region.” said Maj Gen Ekman.  “By working closely with our partners, like the Benin Armed Forces, we empower them to address their own security challenges, while fostering a stronger and more integrated defense network against violent extremism in the region.”

By strengthening relationships with regional forces like the Benin Armed Forces, the U.S. helps to build local capacity, ensuring that nations are better equipped to manage their own security needs. This collaborative approach supports long-term stability and allows for a more effective response to a variety of threats, including transnational crime and violent extremism. The engagement also reinforces the idea that collective security is vital for both regional and global peace.

A key aspect of this partnership is operational support provided by the African Partner Recovery Capability fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft conducting personnel recovery, casualty evacuation, and sustainment of Benin Armed Forces (FAB) personnel deployed for Operation Mirador. This support also includes the development of infrastructure, such as a new helicopter landing pad being built for the FAB at Parakou Base. This infrastructure upgrade directly contributes to enhancing the Benin Armed Forces’ ability to conduct critical operations, whether in counterterrorism efforts or disaster relief missions. By investing in the capacity of regional forces, the U.S. plays a pivotal role in strengthening the defense capabilities of its partners, while ensuring a more secure and stable coastal West Africa.

“The new helicopter landing pad at Parakou Base is a tangible step toward enhancing their operational capacity.” said Ekman.  “It’s about providing the necessary infrastructure to ensure that they can respond to security challenges more efficiently and effectively, ultimately strengthening the security architecture of the region.”

The North Dakota National Guard has a long-standing partnership with Benin through the U.S. Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program (SPP). This collaboration strengthens military-to-military ties by facilitating joint training, sharing expertise, and providing support to enhance Benin’s defense capabilities. Through this partnership, North Dakota National Guard units work closely with their Beninese counterparts to improve operational readiness, foster regional security, and promote stability in West Africa, while also enhancing institutional ties between North Dakota and Benin.

The AFRICOM Coordination Element (ACE) is part of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), a unified combatant command responsible for U.S. military activities across the African continent. The ACE is responsible for supporting AFRICOM’s mission in West Africa by enhancing coordination, communication, and integration with various U.S. government agencies, host nations, and international partners.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, and security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.  The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration.  For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil.

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. 6th Fleet and Tunisian Naval Forces hosted the closing ceremony for exercise Phoenix Express, concluding the 19th iteration of Phoenix Express on November 15, 2024.

This year’s exercise was hosted in Tunisia with training taking place throughout the Southern Mediterranean Sea and territorial waters of participating North African nations. Members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army worked alongside African and European Allies and partners to incorporate the use of the multinational communication center (MNCC), improving communications among maritime forces from Europe, North Africa, and the United States.

This 12-day exercise brings together North African, European, and U.S. maritime forces as part of a global network of maritime security forces to enhance cooperation and expertise in maritime security operations in the Southern Mediterranean Sea.

“Phoenix Express is one of the most significant ways our nations collaborate,” said Vice Adm. J.T.  Anderson, Commander U.S. 6th Fleet. “It is crucial to improve regional cooperation, maritime domain awareness, information sharing, and tactical expertise with our Allies and partner nations to counter sea-based illicit activity in North Africa and the Southern Mediterranean Sea.”

Phoenix Express focuses on increasing the capabilities and interoperability of land- and sea-based maritime security operations. The use of the MNCC and maritime operations center sought to improve communications with participating Allies and partner nations. Ship-boarding, diving, and search and rescue exercises allowed participating nations to share information, refine tactics, and improve techniques to bolster maritime security in the region.

“Tunisia is honored to host Phoenix Express 2024,” said Commodore Noureddine Chakroun, Tunisian Navy Deputy Chief of Staff in Charge of Operations. “Our strategic location in the Mediterranean allowed us to facilitate multinational operations that addressed shared security objectives by collectively addressing maritime security challenges.”

Participating nations included Algeria, Belgium, Georgia, Italy, Libya, Malta, Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal, Tunisia, Türkiye, and the United States.

Phoenix Express is one of three regional maritime exercises led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet, as part of a comprehensive strategy to provide collaborative opportunities to African forces and international partners to address maritime security concerns.

Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa.

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Air Force aircraft arrived at the Marrakech Airshow 2024 (MAS), Tuesday, Oct. 29.

The trade show features static and aerial displays of military and civilian aircraft and is an opportunity for international aerospace industry representatives to showcase their capabilities at the Marrakech Royal Moroccan Air Force Base from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, 2024. The air show is also an opportunity for high level military officials to meet with their Moroccan Royal Armed Forces counterparts and the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

This year, the United States is participating with several aircraft platforms including a C-130J Super Hercules from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, and a Utah Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker. U.S. Air Force participation in this international exhibition is intended to strengthen U.S. and international security assistance efforts as well as U.S. strategic partnerships with African countries.

We are glad to be back in Morocco,” said Brig. Gen. Ricky Mills, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, International Affairs. “The interactions and exchanges we have with our partners at MAS 2024 allow us to learn from and leverage the strengths of other nations.”

Also attending is U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Shawn Holtz, Deputy Director of Strategy, Engagement and Programs for U.S. Africa Command.

“The United States and the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco share a longstanding partnership, with Morocco hosting AFRICOM’s largest exercise, African Lion, and partnering with the Utah National Guard for more than 20 years,” said Holtz. “The Marrakech Air Show is one more opportunity to strengthen our relationship, exchange ideas, promote trust, and bolster security cooperation in the region.”

The two generals are taking part in bilateral discussions with senior leaders from the Royal Armed Forces and other African military leaders.

U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Puneet Talwar is also attending the air show.

“Congratulations to Morocco on the success of this world-class event!” said Ambassador Talwar. “The United States has been a part of each Marrakech Air Show since its first edition, and we welcome the opportunity for U.S. companies to showcase the breadth of cutting edge technology that exemplifies American innovation.  Morocco’s rapidly growing role as regional economic hub, and investments in aerospace infrastructure make this an exciting time to grow our partnership.

The air show and discussions highlight the strategic partnership between the United States and Morocco which is rooted in hundreds of years of shared interests in regional peace, security, and prosperity, and a longstanding commitment to continued cooperation.

The Utah National Guard has also held an active partnership with Morocco since 2003 through the State Partnership Program, fostering strong, trust-based relationship focused on security cooperation. Through joint training and humanitarian missions, both forces exchange knowledge, refine tactics, and enhance operational capabilities.

The Marrakech Airshow is held every two years since 2008, but has been on hiatus since 2018 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source: United States AFRICOM

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United States Delivers Second United Nations Level 2 Hospital to Uganda for Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts

The U.S. provided $5.5 million state-of-the-art U.N. Level 2 hospital As to help support the Ugandan military.

United States Delivers Second United Nations Level 2 Hospital to Uganda for Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts

The U.S. provided $5.5 million state-of-the-art U.N. Level 2 hospital As to help support the Ugandan military.

United States Delivers Second United Nations Level 2 Hospital to Uganda for Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts

The U.S. provided $5.5 million state-of-the-art U.N. Level 2 hospital As to help support the Ugandan military.

United States Delivers Second United Nations Level 2 Hospital to Uganda for Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Efforts

The U.S. provided $5.5 million state-of-the-art U.N. Level 2 hospital As to help support the Ugandan military.

The U.S.  provided $5.5 million  state-of-the-art U.N. Level 2 hospital As to help support the Ugandan military. The 22-bed facility, equipped with specialized suites for dental and surgical care, is designed for rapid deployment in response to regional peacekeeping, humanitarian emergencies, and medical crises. 

The donation marks the second U.N. Level 2 hospital delivered from the U.S. to Uganda. The first donated hospital played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly contributing to the Ugandan response and saving thousands of lives, including civilians.

As part of the transfer, soldiers from the Uganda People’s Defence Force participated in intensive training at the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capabilities Center in Jinja, Oct. 14-29. During training, they learned essential skills in setting up, operating, and dismantling the hospital to ensure effective deployment when needed.

“This initiative reflects the United States’ dedication to enhancing health care and humanitarian response capabilities as part of the more than 60-year partnership with the Ugandan people,” U.S. Ambassador William Popp to Uganda said. 

The majority of U.S. defense and security cooperation in Uganda supports health programs with a direct impact on Ugandan citizens. While less than 3% of the nearly $1 billion in total U.S. government development and humanitarian assistance to Uganda in 2023, nearly two-thirds of all U.S. security cooperation funds went to health programs, with the rest supporting human rights and legal training as well as peacekeeping efforts in Somalia. 

Source: United States AFRICOM

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The United States military partnered with the Zambian Defense Force (ZDF) to host a workshop in Lusaka from September 23 to October 2 to strengthen the ZDF’s capabilities to combat gender-based violence. The workshop, led by retired Chief Master Sergeant Dr. Keith Castille, focused on building the capacity of the ZDF to protect women from violence and sexual assault under the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) framework. The workshop featured sessions on empathy, implicit bias, and trauma-informed care.

“This year, we have seen remarkable progress in the partnership between the United States and Zambia to prevent gender-based violence and sexual exploitation and abuse,” said Air Force Lt Col Linda Jones, Chief of Africa Global Health Engagements for USAFE-AFAFRICA. “The dedication from ZDF participants has been profound, and the strides we’ve made are far-reaching.” Jones also emphasized the growing impact of Zambia’s commitment to combatting sexual exploitation and abuse.“The Zambia Defense Force has shown extraordinary initiative, and it’s clear they are on the path to becoming a regional leader in this space. With every session, the ZDF continues to reinforce their capability to tackle these crucial issues, not just within their forces, but across society,” she added.

ZDF Army Col. Cynthia Chimpusa, Director of Civil-Military Cooperation said, “We are honored to work alongside the U.S. team to strengthen our capabilities in addressing gender-based violence and sexual assault. This partnership is a testament to our mutual commitment to protecting our communities. As we look ahead, we aim to expand the Sexual Assault Prevention Framework (SAPR) within the ZDF and establish a dedicated office to handle these matters.”

Lt Col. Jones also highlighted the strategic value of the Preventing Gender-Based Violence (PGBV) initiative saying that “by addressing these critical issues, we’re not only protecting individuals but contributing to broader security and stability. The work done here is making an immediate difference, and it will have a long-term impact. We are proud to stand with Zambia as it leads the charge against gender-based violence.”

This workshop marked the completion of the third phase of the five-phase PGBV program in Zambia, with plans to continue advancing WPS objectives throughout 2025.