Category: AFRICOM

Source: United States AFRICOM

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, commander, U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jeremy Berndt, USAID Senior Development Advisor (SDA) Ms. Maura Barry-Boyle, and U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Major Michael Woods, Command Senior Enlisted Leader traveled to Libya on August 27 and on August 29, to further cooperation between the U.S. and Libya.

During his visit, Langley and Berndt met with Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dabaiba, President of the Presidential Council Mohamed Menfi, and General Mohamed al-Haddad, Chief of the General Staff, Libyan Armed Forces in Tripoli. In Benghazi, Langley met with Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Libyan National Army and other senior LNA leaders.

“I am pleased to join General Langley on this long-planned visit to Libya to discuss with defense and security leaders in the west and the east how the United States can contribute to unifying Libyan military forces and securing the nation’s sovereignty,” Berndt said.

In June, Langley met with Libyan military leaders in Botswana during the African Chiefs of Defense Conference where they discussed regional security issues and strategies to bring about stability and peace in the region. 

“It was a pleasure meeting with civilian and military leaders throughout Libya and discussing ways to support the unification of security institutions,” Langley said. “Libya’s strength depends upon its unity. The United States stands ready to reinforce existing bonds and forge new partnerships with those who champion democracy, in pursuit of a safer, more prosperous Libya.”

 Langley’s last trip to Libya was on Sept. 22, 2023, when he met with Libyan officials and U.S. Embassy colleagues to discuss the ongoing humanitarian response to the flooding from Storm Daniel in the country. The United States has provided over $900 million in assistance to Libya since 2011, including nearly $275 million for humanitarian assistance.

“The United States and Libya share the goal of enhanced partnership and cooperation, and we look forward to continuing to work together to secure Libya’s sovereignty and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” Langley stated. During the meetings, Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dabaiba, President Mohamed Menfi, and Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar expressed a desire to expand security engagement with the U.S.

The command believes in the importance of the “3D” approach – diplomacy, defense, and development – and is working to strengthen its relationship with Libya in each of these dimensions. U.S. assistance builds the capacity of Libyan institutions, promotes political reconciliation, responds to humanitarian needs, increases Libya’s capacity to govern effectively by holding free and fair elections, secures Libyan territory, and promotes transparent and accountable management of public finances.

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.

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 terrorists on July 15.

The airstrike occurred in a remote area in the vicinity of Ceel Dheere approximately 170 km northeast of Mogadishu.

The initial post-strike assessment indicates the airstrike killed 10 al Shabaab fighters and that there were no civilians harmed.

In addition to the airstrikes, U.S. forces provided support to evacuate a number of the Somali force’s casualties after they were attacked by the terrorist group.

U.S. Africa 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.

Al Shabaab has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. forces and threaten U.S. security interests. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this malicious terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks in the region, which disproportionately harm civilians.

Somalia remains key to the 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.

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, with partners, counters malign actors and transnational 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

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President Tebboune, General Langley and Ambassador Aubin discussed global and regional issues, emphasizing shared perspectives.

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General Saȉd Chanegriha, General Langley and Ambassador Aubin discussed global and regional issues, emphasizing shared perspectives.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command wrapped up his second visit to Algeria on July 23, 2024. 

Gen Langley, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Algeria Elizabeth Aubin, met with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to continue discussions on regional security issues and explore additional engagement opportunities. 

“President Tebboune and I had productive discussions during our meeting. I thanked him for the support Algeria has provided to us, and for Algeria’s participation in some of our regional exercises,” Gen Langley said.   “We also spoke about the importance of continuing our discussions on how we can work together toward greater regional security, stability and prosperity, and a more robust bilateral relationship.”

During the visit, Gen Langley also met with Algerian Chief of Defense, General Saȉd Chanegriha to discuss how the two nations could expand military collaboration. 

“General Langley’s visit underscores Algeria’s important role regionally and the value of U.S.-Algeria bilateral collaboration in ensuring regional stability,” Amb. Aubin said.   “The U.S. and Algeria are concerned about the destabilizing presence of terrorist non-state actors in the nations to Algeria’s south. We want prosperity in the region and encourage constructive dialogue.”

Algeria has been a committed leader in combating counterterrorism in the region and shares U.S. concerns about the expansion of violent extremist organizations through the Sahel. 

While visiting the American Cultural Center in Algiers, Gen Langley met with a group of young Algerian students who participate in the U.S. Embassy-sponsored STEAMQuest program.  Implemented by World Learning, STEAMQuest has introduced 200 Algerian youth to science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM) topics, including robotics, and sponsors a national competition to find eco-friendly solutions to local problems.

“I really appreciate the time these bright, young kids took to demonstrate their hard work to solve shared problems through science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math,” Gen Langley said. “I was very impressed both by their dedication to their communities and their excellent command of the English language. These young people highlight the importance of our task-at-hand – ensuring a stable and secure future for our younger generations.”

U.S. Africa Command, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, is one of eleven U.S. Department of Defense combatant commands, each with a geographic or functional mission that provides command and control of military forces in peace and war. U.S. Africa Command employs the broad-reaching diplomacy, development, and defense approach to foster interagency efforts and help negate the drivers of conflict and extremism in Africa.

For more information, visit our website (https://www.africom.mil), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AFRICOM/) and X/Twitter (@USAfricaCommand), or contact U.S. Africa Command Media Relations at africom-pao-media@mail.mil. 

Please also see the website (https://dz.usembassy.gov/), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/USEmbassyAlgiers), and X/Twitter (@USEmbAlgiers) for the U.S. Embassy in Algiers.

Source: United States AFRICOM

United States turns over C-130H to Botswana Defence Force

Botswana Defence Force soldiers attend the Botswana Defence Force, during the the C-130 transfer to Botswana, in Gaborone, Botswana, June 27, 2024. U.S. leaders from the U.S. Embassy in Gaborone and U.S. Africa Command participated in the transfer ceremony of a former U.S. military C-130H aircraft to the Botswana Defence Force, coinciding with the African Chiefs of Defense Conference’s conclusion. This transfer enhances Botswana’s airlift capabilities and reaffirms the strong defense partnership between the US and Botswana, highlighting the US’s commitment to regional security and stability in Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mary Linniman)

U.S. Ambassador Howard A. Van Vranken, U.S. Ambassador to Botswana, and U.S. Marine Corps, Gen. Michael Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command, participated in the official transfer of a former U.S. military C-130 Hercules aircraft to the Botswana Defence Force in a significant step towards enhancing Botswana’s defense capabilities, June 27.

The C-130H aircraft was formally handed over during a ceremony attended by representatives from the U.S. Embassy, AFRICOM, and senior officials from the Botswana government and Defence Force.

“This C-130H couldn’t have come at a better time than at this moment. Just a year ago, the last of the C-130Bs, which have served us fabulously for a quarter of a century, was grounded.” said Honorable Thomas Kagiso Mmusi, Botswana Minister of Defence and Security. “The BDF has diligently performed a variety of mission sets using these aircraft over the years. These include airlift to support UN Mission in Sudan, AU missions, SAMIM operations, security cooperation exercises such as SADC Air Power exercises and Special Forces exercises with international forces.”

“In this symbolic transfer of the C-130H aircraft, we reaffirm our shared commitment to security and stability in the region,” stated Van Vranken. “This aircraft not only represents advanced technological capability, but also stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between our nations.”

The handover ceremony marks a milestone in the longstanding partnership between the United States and Botswana. The ceremony, reflects the commitment to strengthen defense cooperation and support regional security efforts by both countries.

The aircraft will provide the BDF with enhanced airlift capabilities, enabling more effective response to national and regional challenges, including disaster relief, peacekeeping operations, and logistical support.

“It is an honor to celebrate the grant of a C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft from the United States to Botswana,” added Van Vranken. “The arrival of this C-130 Hercules marks a renewal of Botswana’s strategic airlift capability. This aircraft, known for its reliability and versatility, can carry twice the cargo and more passengers than the smaller Casa 235. Additionally, it can fly 30 percent faster and twice as far without refueling – making it an invaluable asset for Botswana’s defense and humanitarian missions.”

Botswana’s acquisition of the C-130H follows the successful operation of three C-130B aircraft acquired from the United States in the 1990s. These aircraft played pivotal roles in delivering humanitarian aid and supporting the Southern Africa Development Community’s mission in Mozambique, flown and maintained by the Botswana Defence Force for thirty years until 2023 when they were retired from service.

The grant of the C-130H was made possible under the United States Air Force Excess Defense Articles program, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the United States and Botswana.

The partnership between the United States and Botswana continues to strengthen, and is built on shared values and a commitment to promoting stability and prosperity in Southern Africa.

“Let me once more thank the American people for their continued support and partnership in the preservation of global peace.” said Mmusi. “And at this juncture officially accept this C-130H Hercules aircraft on behalf of the Botswana Government.”

The ceremony happens as the African Chiefs of Defense Conference concludes in Gaborone, Botswana which brought together over 30 countries from across Africa to discuss security challenges and a way forward.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands, and is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and crisis response on the African continent in support of U.S. interests and to 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. Africa Command

Attendees of the African Chiefs of Defense Conference 2024 pose for a group photo in Gaborone, Botswana, June 25, 2024. ACHOD 2024 brings together Chiefs of Defense from 35 African countries, the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, representatives from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Naval Forces Africa, Special Operations Command Africa, U.S. Air Forces Africa, and U.S. Army Africa in Gaborone, Botswana. Cohosted between the Botswana Defence Force and U.S. Africa Command, ACHOD provides an opportunity for senior military officials from across Africa to discuss topics such as counter terrorism, collaboration in crisis response, and the importance of civilian and military relations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Addysyn Tobar)

Senior military representatives from 34 countries met in Gaborone, Botswana for the African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD) to discuss security and partnership on the African continent, June 24-26.

The conference, cohosted by the Botswanan Defence Force and U.S. Africa Command focused on critical security challenges facing the continent, and partnership to address those challenges.

U.S. Marine Corps. General Michael Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command, emphasized the importance of collaboration in his remarks: “Alongside the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, I had the privilege to meet with Botswana’s President and Chief of Defence, in Gaborone. Our meaningful partnership with Botswana has sharpened our focus on mutual security concerns, with training and engagements serving as clear demonstrations of our collaboration.”

“The African Chiefs of Defense Conference was an outstanding and informative event.” said Langley. “This year’s conference provided a wealth of valuable information. Engaging with so many esteemed chiefs of defense has been enlightening and will significantly strengthen our collective security initiatives.”

He also noted the historic nature of the conference being held for the first time on the Africanbcontinent, since the first ACHOD in 2017. “This is the first time the African Chiefs of Defense Conference will be held on the continent, and I am proud to cohost this year’s event with the Botswanan Defence Force,” said Langley.

AFRICOM leadership held over 70 meetings, bilateral engagements and touch points with military representatives from across the African continent. In addition, leadership conducted eight press engagements, interacting with over 150 journalists from across the globe. These engagements provided an opportunity to further discuss the conference’s outcomes, regional security challenges, and the commitment of international partners to supporting African nations in their security efforts.

Right after the conference, Langley took the opportunity to observe and be briefed on what USAID programs are doing in Botswana, underscoring the importance of humanitarian aid and development alongside security cooperation. He noted the impactful contributions of these programs to the local community, reinforcing the holistic approach to regional stability.

Langley also participated in a significant ceremony marking the transfer of a C-130 military aircraft to the Botswanan Defence Force. This event symbolized the deepening partnership between the United States and Botswana in enhancing the latter’s military capabilities and operational readiness.

The conference underscored the importance of collective security efforts and laid a foundation for enhanced cooperation among African nations and international partners. The conference facilitated discussions on a wide range of regional security matters, fostering collaboration among nations across Africa and beyond.

Countries that attended included Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, United States of America, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The African Chiefs of Defense Conference serves as a premier forum for military leaders from across the African continent to convene, collaborate, and address pressing security challenges. Through dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnership-building, the conference aims to foster regional stability and enhance collective security efforts.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands, and is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and crisis response on the African continent in support of U.S. interests and to promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. 

The conference highlights U.S. Africa Command’s role in the U.S. Government’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration to achieve national objectives. 

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. Marine Corps General Michael E. Langley, Commander, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), and the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Ambassador Richard Riley, recently conducted high-level meetings with senior Somali government officials and international partners to discuss ongoing security efforts and future strategic initiatives, June 21-22, 2024.

Gen. Langley and Ambassador Riley met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Minister of Defense Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and Chief of Defense Forces Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin Addow. Discussions centered on the phased drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Somali National Army force enhancement programs, and upcoming operations.

In addition, General Langley engaged with the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, and the acting ATMIS Force Commander, Major General Marius Ngendabanka. Talks focused on continued ATMIS support for SNA offensive capabilities, the ongoing drawdown process, and collaborative efforts to strengthen Somali security forces.

On the last day of the trip, General Langley and Sheri-Nouane Duncan-Jones, USAID Somalia Mission Director, met with USAID’s implementing partners for the Transition Initiatives for Stabilization programs in Somalia. The delegation emphasized the critical role of interagency cooperation across Diplomacy, Development, and Defense, particularly in integrating stabilization efforts into military operations.

These meetings underscore AFRICOM’s commitment to enhancing Somali security capabilities and fostering stability through comprehensive, coordinated approaches.

U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands, and is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and crisis response on the African continent in support of U.S. interests and to promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. 

The visit highlights U.S. Africa Command’s 3D approach, which leverages diplomacy, development, and defense collaboration. 

Source: United States AFRICOM

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BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo – The United States Air Forces in Europe and Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) Band will embark on a joint tour across the Republic of the Congo, presenting a diverse musical program that includes classical standards and popular American hits. The tour will also feature educational masterclasses in collaboration with the Congolese Defense Forces Band.

This initiative marks the 64th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Republic of the Congo, highlighting both nations’ commitment to peace, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding.

“The ‘Stronger Together’ tour underscores U.S. Air Forces Africa’s dedication to our African partners,” said Lt. Col. Toro-Quiñones, commander of the USAFE-AFAFRICA Band. “Through music, we aim to strengthen regional relationships and promote a secure, stable, and prosperous Africa.”

Performances in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire aim to enhance international bonds and deepen partnerships with the local population. “Music’s ability to transcend barriers highlights its power to foster unity,” noted Dominik Halnais, a representative from the U.S. Band. “Our joint performances exemplify how music bridges divides and contributes to global peace and prosperity.”

The “Stronger Together” tour highlights include:

• A visit to the School of Art in Brazzaville with an outdoor performance alongside local student musicians.

• Masterclasses at Villa Washington and the French Institute in Pointe-Noire, engaging young artists and local musicians.

• Concert at the Memorial Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza in Brazzaville on July 3 at 6 p.m.

• Concert at the cultural center Tati Loutard in Pointe Noire on July 6 at 6 p.m.

“The tour reflects the commitment of the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Mission to the Republic of the Congo to strengthen bilateral relations through cultural exchanges,” emphasized U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Congo Eugene Young. “We are dedicated partners, building a future of mutual support and trust.”

Join us for these memorable concerts in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, and witness the transformative power of musical diplomacy.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: 

USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs Media Operations: usafepao.pao@us.af.mil

U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs: africom-pao@mail.mil

U.S. Embassy Brazzaville Public Affairs: PASBRAZZA@state.gov

Source: United States AFRICOM

The United States and Botswana will co-host the 2024 African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Gaborone the last week of June, bringing together top military leaders from across Africa to exchange knowledge, encourage partnerships, and foster collaboration toward addressing shared security and stability challenges.

This year will mark the first time the U.S. has co-hosted the African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD) with an African nation, and the first time the conference will take place within Africa. Keynote speakers and panelists will include high-level civilian and military officials, including key leaders from U.S. Embassy Gaborone and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).

Since 2017, the African Chiefs of Defense Conference has served as a premier forum for senior military leaders across the continent to convene and collaborate in advancing shared goals for a safer, more prosperous Africa. Last year’s conference took place in Rome, Italy.

The following quotes about the conference are attributable to the U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs Office:

• Building upon the successes of previous conferences, the 2024 event promises to foster an environment conducive to knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation. Through panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities, participants will have the opportunity to glean insights from esteemed experts, share best practices, and forge enduring partnerships.
• As military leaders from across the African continent prepare to converge in Botswana, the stage is set for a dynamic and productive exchange of ideas. Through collaboration, dialogue, and shared commitment, the 2024 conference aims to advance the shared goal of a safer, more prosperous Africa.
• The African Chiefs of Defense Conference serves as a premier forum for military leaders from across the African continent to convene, collaborate, and address pressing security challenges. Through dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnership-building, the conference aims to foster regional stability and enhance collective security efforts.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Botswana Defence Force POC Lt. Col. Fana Maswabi at fmaswabi@gov.bw, U.S. Africa Command POC LCDR Bobby Dixon at africom-pao@mail.mil, and U.S. Embassy Gaborone Public Affairs POC Dominick Tao at PDSGaborone@state.gov

Source: United States AFRICOM

The U.S. Department of Defense and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Niger announce that the withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets from Niger has progressed from initial preparations to redeployment. This significant transition began with the departure of a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III from Air Base 101 in Niamey on June 7, 2024.

This flight exemplifies the productive cooperation between the U.S. and Nigerien armed forces through the Joint Disengagement Commission, which is tasked with overseeing and coordinating the orderly and safe withdrawal of U.S. forces from Niger.

Through the Joint Disengagement Commission’s cooperative and transparent efforts, a small contingent of U.S. personnel has arrived in Niger to provide logistical support, ensuring the efficient withdrawal of remaining forces and assets from Air Bases 101 and 201. Concurrently, some U.S. forces have already redeployed from Niger to their home stations as their mission contributions concluded. 

Both U.S. and Nigerien officials are dedicated to completing a safe, orderly, and responsible withdrawal by September 15, 2024. They emphasize their commitment to the protection and security of American forces during this process.

The U.S. Department of Defense and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense recognize the joint sacrifices made by both nations’ forces in the fight against terrorism. They commend each other’s efforts in strengthening the Nigerien Armed Forces and express a shared commitment to continued cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

This withdrawal of U.S. forces will not have an impact on the ongoing development relations between the United States and Niger. Both countries remain committed to sustained diplomatic dialogue to shape the future of their bilateral relations.

For media inquiries, please contact:

U.S. Department of Defense: 

Phone: +1-703-697-5131

Email: osd.pa.dutyofficer@mail.mil

Source: United States AFRICOM

In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike in Somalia targeting ISIS militants, May 31, 2024.

The airstrike occurred in a remote area in the vicinity of Dhaardaar, approximately 81 km southeast of Boosaaso, Somalia.

An initial assessment of the strike is that three ISIS militants were killed, with no indication of civilian casualties.

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

ISIS has conducted numerous attacks globally, including terrorist attacks in Africa, Europe and throughout Asia, all while plotting against the U.S. and western interests around the world. U.S. Africa Command, alongside its partners, continues to take action to prevent this malicious terrorist group from planning and conducting attacks, which disproportionately harms civilians.  

Somalia remains key to the 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 ISIS.

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