Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), emphasized today that addressing the diverse security challenges across the African continent requires collaboration, not unilateral efforts. Speaking from Kenya via teleconference, Langley detailed AFRICOM’s ongoing strategy, stressing that African nations must lead the way in securing their region, while the U.S. stands ready to support and enable their efforts.
Langley highlighted the importance of regional partnerships, particularly in the Sahel, where terrorist threats remain persistent. He confirmed that the U.S. withdrawal from Niger had been completed without incident, and consultations are ongoing with the State Department regarding the future of U.S. security cooperation in the region. “We are pivoting to like-minded countries with shared democratic values,” Langley said, referencing talks with Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, and Benin to recalibrate regional security strategies.
A central tenet of AFRICOM’s approach is the principle that efforts should be “African-led and U.S.-enabled.” The command is working closely with African partners to combat violent extremist organizations and transnational criminal activities. Climate change also looms large as a challenge, exacerbating issues such as mass migrations and resource conflicts, and AFRICOM is working with local partners to develop collaborative solutions.
Langley cited his visits to multiple African nations this year, including Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, where he sought to understand each country’s unique counterterrorism challenges. He also spoke about the African Union’s Support and Stabilization Mission (AUSSOM) in Somalia, voicing optimism that Somalia’s military could liberate areas held by al-Shabaab and restore stability.
Addressing the influence of Russia and China, Langley noted that Russian destabilizing efforts, particularly in the Sahel and Central African Republic, have been significant. Both nations, he said, have engaged in widespread disinformation campaigns, complicating U.S. efforts to foster stability. Despite these challenges, Langley reaffirmed AFRICOM’s commitment to African-led solutions for long-term security and stability.–News Desk