Category: AFRICOM

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.

Source: United States AFRICOM

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AFRICOM Furthers Commitment to African Partnerships by Supporting IMET and Educating Today’s Military Leaders

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command, right, speaks with an international service member from the continent of Africa who is a part of the International Military Education and Training program on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2024. Started nearly fifty years ago, the IMET program is an instrument of U.S. national security and foreign policy that has a purpose of promoting more professional militaries and defense cooperation between the U.S. and foreign countries through training. Langley’s visit furthered the command’s desire to deepen its partnerships and defense relations by empowering today’s leaders. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre)

AFRICOM Furthers Commitment to African Partnerships by Supporting IMET and Educating Today’s Military Leaders

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command, right, speaks with students attending programs at Marine Corps University on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2024. Langley’s visit furthered the command’s desire to deepen its partnerships and defense relations by empowering today’s leaders. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre)

AFRICOM Furthers Commitment to African Partnerships by Supporting IMET and Educating Today’s Military Leaders

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command, left, poses for a photo with U.S. and international service members with the International Military Education and Training program on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2024. Langley’s visit furthered the command’s desire to deepen its partnerships and defense relations by empowering today’s leaders. “I cannot emphasize enough the value that’s placed on the partnerships we maintain, nurture and cultivate across the continent,” said Langley. “Having our African partners at the center and forefront of what we do solidifies our partnership and efforts to promote regional security, stability, and prosperity in Africa.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre)

AFRICOM Furthers Commitment to African Partnerships by Supporting IMET and Educating Today’s Military Leaders

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command, gives a presentation to U.S. and international partners attending programs at Marine Corps University on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2024. Students met with Langley to garner his insight on how they can leverage their current training to assist in strengthening relationships with African partners while supporting efforts to build partner nation capabilities. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre

AFRICOM Furthers Commitment to African Partnerships by Supporting IMET and Educating Today’s Military Leaders

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, the commander of U.S. Africa Command, participates in an open Q&A following a presentation to U.S., and international, and interagency partners on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 23, 2024. During his presentation Langley shared how, “advancing relationships with our African partners is an effort that requires unification from a three-dimensional approach.” Therefore, each student’s participation in their “respective program is a testament of how two dimensions of this dynamic approach – Diplomacy and Defense – marry together to strengthen our defense institutions through shared values.” Langley’s visit furthered the command’s desire to deepen its partnerships and defense relations by empowering today’s leaders. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joaquin Dela Torre)

The commander of U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, furthered the command’s desire to deepen its partnerships and defense relations by empowering today’s leaders during a discussion with students attending Marine Corps University and the U.S. International Military Education and Training program on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, in Quantico, Virginia.

Students, representing numerous allied and interagency partners, and sister services from the U.S. Department of Defense met with Langley to garner his insight on how they can leverage their current training to assist in strengthening relationships with our African partners while supporting efforts to build partner nation capabilities.

“Advancing relationships with our African partners is an effort that requires unification from a three-dimensional approach,” Langley stated. “Your participation in your respective program is a testament of how two dimensions of this dynamic approach – Diplomacy and Defense – marry together to strengthen our defense institutions through shared values.”

For AFRICOM, a U.S. Combatant Command whose primary mission is multilayered, opportunities to work with and educate rising leaders in allied defense organizations builds a bridge to foster interagency efforts that later assists in negating the drivers of conflict and extremism found throughout Africa’s regions.

“I cannot emphasize enough the value that’s placed on the partnerships we maintain, nurture and cultivate across the continent,” said Langley. “Having our African partners at the center and forefront of what we do solidifies our partnership and efforts to promote regional security, stability, and prosperity in Africa.”

Started nearly fifty years ago, the IMET program is an instrument of U.S. national security and foreign policy that has a purpose of promoting more professional militaries and defense cooperation between the U.S. and foreign countries through training. As the Professional Military Education proponent, Marine Corps University develops the professional competence of its Marines, other service, international, and civilian students. After completing their respective course, graduates are prepared to lead and perform more effectively in multinational environments at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels.

Source: United States AFRICOM

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Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Gen. Michael E. Langley, U.S. Marine Corps, commander of U.S. Africa Command, host a dinner on the Ceremonial Barge Chesapeake

WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2024) – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Gen. Michael E. Langley, U.S. Marine Corps, commander of U.S. Africa Command, host a dinner on the Ceremonial Barge Chesapeake with African Ambassadors to the U.S., in Washington, Sept. 24, to discuss U.S.-Africa partnerships and shared commitment to fostering security, stability, and prosperity throughout the continent. This meeting, consisting of African maritime nations, provided insight on affirmed relations, current challenges as well as opportunities for advancements. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jared Mancuso)

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Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Gen. Michael E. Langley, U.S. Marine Corps, commander of U.S. Africa Command, host a dinner on the Ceremonial Barge Chesapeake

WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2024) – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Gen. Michael E. Langley, U.S. Marine Corps, commander of U.S. Africa Command, host a dinner on the Ceremonial Barge Chesapeake with African Ambassadors to the U.S., in Washington, Sept. 24, to discuss U.S.-Africa partnerships and shared commitment to fostering security, stability, and prosperity throughout the continent. This meeting, consisting of African maritime nations, provided insight on affirmed relations, current challenges as well as opportunities for advancements. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jared Mancuso)

The commander of U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, and African Ambassadors to the U.S. met Sept. 24 in Washington, D.C., to discuss U.S.-Africa partnerships and their shared commitment to fostering security, stability, and prosperity.

This meeting, consisting of African maritime nations, provided insight on affirmed relations, current challenges as well as opportunities for advancements.

“While Africa is on the front lines of many of the world’s most urgent shared threats, maritime operations play a critical role in ensuring the security, stability, and access to its borders,” Langley mentioned. “Over the years, the United States has had a long history of positive defense relationships in Africa based on shared values. Discussions like this further enable AFRICOM’s commitment to build on that history to ensure the strengthening of our alliances and partnerships.”

During the meeting, the Ambassadors shared their concerns and emphasized the value for continuing these dialogues in hopes to foster broader relationships amongst all partners. 

While building enduring partnerships across the continent continues to evolve, especially with countries neighboring the waterways, both Del Toro and Langley had promising thoughts on the health of U.S.-Africa relationships.

“Let us remember that our shared aspirations are rooted in the desire for a continent where every maritime partner can thrive,” said Del Toro. “The U.S.-Africa partnership is not just about diplomacy; it’s about unlocking the boundless potential of Africa’s people. Together, we can build a future where security, stability, and prosperity are not just words, but the lived reality of every African maritime nation.”

“We cannot neglect connecting and fostering relations with our African partners,” Langley said. “Being a preferred partnered doesn’t happen overnight. Our willingness to engage Africans and ensure they remain at the center of our efforts guarantees that their voices are not only heard but serve as driving forces to our operational strategies.”

Source: United States AFRICOM

Douala, Cameroon – U.S. Africa Command and the Cameroon Armed Forces kicked off the West Africa Logistics Conference here today in Douala, Cameroon, convening more than 60 West African and U.S military logistics leaders.

During the next two days, these logistics leaders will discuss shared logistics challenges and identify opportunities to cooperate on improving interoperability and operational effectiveness.

“The WALC serves as an essential platform for regional collaboration, enabling military and civilian leaders from across the region to discuss shared logistics challenges and identify opportunities for collaboration,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. George “Dutch” Dietrich, Director of Logistics for U.S. Africa Command. “I look forward to collaborating over the next two days and to continuing our partnerships in the future. I also want to thank our partners in the Cameroon Armed Forces for hosting us and helping put this conference together over the past year.”

“Logistics drives everything we do,” stated U.S. Marine Corps Gen Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command. “Our ability to continue to fight depends on our ability to sustain the fighting force; the ability to respond to humanitarian disaster depends on our ability to deliver supplies quickly to the point of need; and the ability to sustain and rapidly deliver supplies depends on a logistics network or supply system that is always ready to respond. 

Building on the success of last year’s WALC in Cote d’Ivoire, this year’s event aims to foster a deeper, shared understanding of regional logistics challenges, best practices, lessons learned, and opportunities for collaboration. The 2024 WALC in Douala will feature speakers, panels, and partner-led discussions allowing participants to engage in meaningful dialogue on a broad range of topics, including:

1. Significant changes and developments in logistics operations, strategic partnerships, and services over the past year
2. Opportunities for logistics cooperation and institution building
3. Challenges of preparing for and responding to disasters and crises

Upon the conclusion of the WALC, AFRICOM anticipates a renewed commitment to advancing logistics capabilities within the region and forging stronger partnerships between West African militaries and international partners. AFRICOM remains dedicated to supporting African nations’ security initiatives, strengthening our collective ability to address and mitigate regional security challenges.

Countries and organizations represented at the conference this year include Benin, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, The Gambia, and the Economic Community of West African States.

The United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM), alongside its African and interagency partners, is charged with the responsibility of enhancing security and stability in Africa to advance and protect U.S. national interests. For more information, visit our website, Facebook and Twitter pages, or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. Please also see the website (https://cm.usembassy.gov/), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Yaounde.USEmbassy), and X/Twitter (@USEmbYaounde) for the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde.

Source: United States AFRICOM

The U.S. Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Niger announce that the withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets from Niger is complete.

This process began on May 19 following the mutual establishment of withdrawal conditions and continued with the withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets from Air Base 101 in Niamey on July 7, 2024, and Air Base 201 in Agadez on Aug. 5, 2024. 

Additionally, the U.S. Africa Command Coordination Element, consisting of a two-star General Officer and staff, has departed from Niger. 

The effective cooperation and communication between U.S. and Nigerien armed forces ensured that the safe, orderly, and responsible withdrawal was completed without complications, by the mutually decided date of September 15, 2024.

Over the past decade, U.S. troops have trained Niger’s forces and supported partner-led counterterrorism missions against Islamic State and al Qaeda in the region.

The U.S. Department of Defense and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense recognize the sacrifices made by both nations’ forces.

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Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command visited Kenya to further cooperation and build on the strong relationship with the Kenyan Defence Force, Sept 11-13. The command’s Director of Operations, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Claude Tudor, and Director of Intelligence, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Rose Keravuori accompanied Langley has he visited Nairobi and Manda Bay, Kenya. 

“The United States is grateful for Kenya’s leadership in security both in the region and globally,” said Charge d’Affaires Marc Dillard. “This visit by General Langley underscores our deep partnership and our continuing close cooperation.”

Langley met with General Charles Kahariri, Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces to discuss more ways to support efforts to counter terrorism and work to address regional challenges. The leaders also brought together their staffs to discuss Kenya’s military enhancement programs, and upcoming operations.

“Kenya stands as a beacon of progress on the African continent in terms of defense and security, demonstrating exceptional leadership in global security initiatives and regional security,” said Langley. “Our partnership underscores the strategic importance of democratic values and collective resilience in addressing global challenges.”

Langley also had the opportunity to meet with alumni from Young African Leadership Initiative at the U.S. Embassy. They discussed their backgrounds, where they are at now in their various initiative and businesses and their hopes for the future. Langley prioritizes engagements like this as part of his effort learn more about Africa and hear from the youth.

In addition to the regular visits, General Langley also visited the US Embassy bombing memorial in Nairobi, which serves as a solemn reminder of the tragic event that occurred in 1998, where 218 Kenyans and Americans lost their lives, and over 4,000 wounded. This visit not only honors the memory of those affected but also highlights the broader fight against terrorism that links this attack to the events of September 11, 2001.

“Our engagement with Kenya is more than a diplomatic gesture; it’s a strategic partnership grounded in mutual respect and shared goals,” said Langley. “Together, we are enhancing our capabilities in health security and regional stability, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for both our nations.”

Langley’s visit to Kenya follows his recent meeting with Kenyan military leaders at the African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Botswana where they discussed regional security issues and strategies to bring about stability and peace in the region.

The AFRICOM team also visited and toured the U.S. and Kenyan military facilities and outposts around Manda Bay to check on the troops stationed there. He spoke to the troops and recognized their hard work in countering terrorism in the region.

Recently, U.S. Army Civil Affairs Forces in Kenya worked alongside a local NGO to participate in a Women and Youth Health initiative at three local schools. The team provided health related donations and promoting public health. They are similarly working with local government leadership to expand Emergency Operations Center capabilities and facilitate equipment donations for a new health center.”

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, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order 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

More than 50 senior enlisted leaders from the U.S. and 30 African countries convened in Lilongwe, Malawi Sept. 9-13 for the 6th annual Africa Senior Enlisted Leader Conference, held for only the second time on the continent.

“This conference, distinguished ladies and gentlemen, marks a historic milestone not only for the Malawi Defence Force and Malawi, but also all the esteemed senior enlisted leaders from across our great continent,” said Gen. Dr. Paul V. Phiri, Commander, Malawi Defence Force.

Hosted by the Malawi Defence Forces and U.S. Africa Command, the conference provides a forum for senior noncommissioned officers to share best practices, discuss challenges, and strengthen partnerships. Through briefings and breakout sessions, senior NCOs will hear how others militaries are developing their NCO corps, and have the opportunity to work together on ways they might improve current programs.

“We are deeply honored that you have chosen our nation—the Warm Heart of Africa, to be the canvas upon which this event unfolds,” Phiri said. “As we commence our discussions this morning let us use this opportunity to exchange insights, share best practices, and develop strategies that will enhance our collective security efforts. It is my sincere hope that we recognize the importance of open and constructive dialogue as a means to strengthen our partnerships, build trust, and forge enduring bonds of friendship.”

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Troy E. Black also attended the conference and stressed the importance of developing noncommissioned officers.

“The more we educate our enlisted force,” Black said, “the better we can unencumber the officer force to get after the strategic missions.”

Participating countries heard from U.S., NATO and partners about new developments in service NCO academies, and progress made in strengthening programs in each other’s countries. Breakout sessions will allow participants to have more in-depth discussions on the topics brought up in plenary.

In an effort to support countries on its southern flank, NATO established agreements with Mauritania, Morocco and Tunisia, and is looking to support African countries in developing their NCO corps as well.

Sgt. Maj. Ludek Kolesa, NATO Defence Education Enhancement Programme Non-Commissioned Officer Coordinator, shared information during the conference about how the program can help support African partner nations’ efforts in developing their NCO corps. 

The DEEP program established an NCO working group to help develop professional military education programs at partners’ requests. The program also helps identify areas that specifically need development and modernization to support their country’s priorities. NATO also offers NCO Corps Professional Development as a vector for transformation of respective countries’ military organizations in order to emphasize the importance of having a professional NCO Corps.

Through the theme of, “The Competent, Capable and Credible NCO,” this year’s senior enlisted conference provides the opportunity to bring the leaders of partner militaries together to expand and deepen relationships, and support partner senior NCOs in developing programs to build leadership, proficiency and resiliency among their NCO corps.

“Each of us here represents our nation’s Profession of Arms,” Sgt. Maj. Michael Woods, Command Senior Enlisted Leader, U.S. Africa Command said. 

“This conference is about bringing Senior Non-Commissioned Officers together to discuss our shared interests and gain unique insight from each other. We will have an open dialogue, where every perspective is considered, and every opinion is welcomed.”

Last year’s event was held in Lusaka, Zambia.

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Source: United States AFRICOM

STUTTGART, Germany – U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command wrapped up his second trip to Somalia this year. The command’s Director of Operations, U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Claude Tudor, and Director of Intelligence, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Rose Keravuori, accompanied Langley as he traveled to Mogadishu Sept. 9-11 to further cooperation between the U.S. and Somalia.

“We seek to advance U.S. and Somali interests by identifying shared goals and working closely together to achieve them,” said U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard Riley. “The U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Military, USAID, and other interagency colleagues continue to fight against terrorism threats in Somalia. We will continue to work closely with the Somali government to support Somalia’s revival as a secure, thriving, peaceful, and democratic nation.”

Langley and Riley met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and other Somalian government and military officials. Discussions centered on the importance of Somalian led defense and security efforts alongside partner forces, Somali National Army force enhancement programs, and upcoming operations.

“Our discussions with Somali partners emphasized the importance of supporting the Federal Government of Somalia’s focus on counterterrorism and capacity building,” said Langley. “Together, we are committed to ensuring timely delivery of stabilization assistance and supporting Somalia’s efforts to meet critical security benchmarks.”

Langley visited with troops at outstations in Somalia and met with partner forces throughout the region.

“U.S. Africa Command is dedicated to working with Somalia in the realm of security and defense so that they can advance political and economic stability, prevent terrorism, and address humanitarian crises,” said Langley. “Our partnership with the Federal Government of Somalia is crucial in achieving these objectives, and we remain committed to supporting Somalia in its pursuit of a safer and more prosperous future.”

Somalia is key to a stable security environment in East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to give them the tools that they need to degrade al-Shabaab.

“It was a pleasure to meet with both civilian and military leaders in Somalia to discuss how we can work together to build a more stable future,” Langley said.  “Somalia’s future stability requires unity, and the United States is ready to help forge partnerships with those who champion democracy and stability.”

Langley also meet with USAID’s Transition Initiatives for Stabilization Saddax (TIS3) partners to gain insight on the current situation and on their organization’s activities towards future stabilization planning. The discussion focused on the situation in Hirshabelle as a stabilization case study, in order to understand expectations around future stabilization interventions in Somalia.  

 “Somalis are forging a promising path forward. USAID supports Somalia’s aspirations for durable stability, democracy, and prosperity,” said USAID Somalia Mission Director, Sheri-Nouane Duncan-Jones.

“To get there and help Somalia navigate the various challenges, USAID is committed to work toward shared humanitarian and development objectives in key sectors including humanitarian assistance, governance and stabilization, education, and economic growth and resilience. USAID works hand in hand with our State Department and Department of Defense, Somali government, and beneficiary communities to implement strategic programs to reach these goals.”

USAID’s TIS3 is playing a pivotal role in advancing U.S. foreign policy interests in Somalia by supporting Somali communities in establishing the initial governance and safety conditions necessary to address the long-term social, economic, and political causes of Somalia’s instability by reducing the factors that enable violent extremist organizations to gain and maintain influence.

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, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order 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. 

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