Latest news with #AFRICOM
IOL News
8 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Navigating Tensions: AFRICOM's Role in SADC's Security Landscape
ZAMBIAN President Hakainde Hichilema, Angola President João Lourenço , US President Joe Biden, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi, and Tanzania Vice-President Philip Isdor Mpango at the Lobito Corridor Trans-Africa Summit held in Benguela, Angola on December 4, 2024. Image: AFP Dr. Sizo Nkala The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) – the combatant command responsible for carrying out the US Department of Defence's military operations, exercises, and security cooperation in Africa – could sow divisions within the southern African region. The leadership of the AFRICOM, including the Deputy Commander Lieutenant General John Brennan and Ambassador Robert Scott, made what seemed to be successful visits to Angola and Namibia at the end of July. In both countries, the parties discussed mutual security interests, including promoting stability in southern Africa, tackling wildlife and timber trafficking, drug cartels and terrorism, which are a threat to regional peace and stability. The visits followed the Obangame Joint Military Exercise conducted in Cape Verde in May, in which both Namibia and Angola took part alongside 22 other African countries and the US. In Angola, it coincided with the Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) where Angolan and US troops were conducting live fire exercises aimed at improving combat readiness and the interoperability of allied forces. With the US-funded Lobito Corridor, a railway track which will connect Angola's Lobito port to more inland countries like Zambia and the DRC, Angola is central to US economic interests in southern Africa. The AFRICOM leaders emphasised that they seek to work with African countries in a manner that enhances their sovereignty and autonomy rather than their dependency. This dovetails with AFRICOM's doctrine of 'African Solutions to African Problems'. With its deeper knowledge and experience in maritime security, counterinsurgency activities, and peacekeeping operations, AFRICOM could be a valuable partner for states in the region dealing with violent conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province. In flaunting its credentials and values, the AFRICOM leaders could not miss an opportunity to throw shade at US geopolitical rivals – China and Russia – whom it accused of treating African militaries as their training aides. However, the mood was decidedly different for AFRICOM's relations with another southern African country. Early in August, the US Department of Defence decided to cancel the Shared Accord military exercises between the US and South Africa. This was because of a disagreement over allowing armed American soldiers to guard the US aircraft. It is reported that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) preferred that its personnel protect the aircraft while the DoD insisted on having its soldiers take that responsibility. The DoD argued that the Status of Forces Agreement signed between Pretoria and Washington in 1999 allowed US security personnel to guard US assets. This marks yet another negative turn in the bilateral relations between the two countries, which have deteriorated rapidly since the beginning of Donald Trump's second presidency in January. The latest cancellation is the third time the US has withdrawn from planned security cooperation activities with South Africa since last year. In 2024, the US pulled out of the African Aerospace and Defence Expo and also decided against docking a US Navy ship in Cape Town. This was partly because of South Africa's refusal to sign the so-called 'Article 98', which enjoins countries to sign an agreement to protect the US security personnel from arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) when on their territory. The US is not a member of the ICC. South Africa and AFRICOM have always had a frosty relationship since its establishment in 2007. The former vociferously campaigned against the establishment of an American military base in Africa. Pretoria was of the view that AFRICOM was an imperialistic venture, and a keen association with it would be seen as being a lapdog of American imperialism in Africa. This stance was also in part an effort by the African National Congress (ANC) to differentiate itself from the Apartheid government, which had no issues protecting the interests of the US in the region - sometimes through destabilising neighbouring countries. AFRICOM's less-than-cordial relations with South Africa will undermine the effectiveness of its security cooperation with the region. South Africa is a regional powerhouse with the strongest and most well-equipped military in southern Africa. The country is an active participant in peacekeeping operations in southern Africa, having recently contributed the bulk of the troops in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)'s peacekeeping missions in Mozambique and the DRC. Without Pretoria's cooperation, AFRICOM's ventures will have a limited impact. The SADC region is an indivisible security considering the litany of transnational security threats it faces. As such, any engagement with a major external actor like AFRICOM would be more effective if done on a regional rather than a national and bilateral level. Just last year, on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed his worries to the Russian President Vladimir Putin over AFRICOM's close cooperation with AFRICOM. He asked that Russia intensify security cooperation with his country as a counterweight to the West's projection of power in neighbouring countries. If the regional leaders do not address this, the region could soon be divided into two security spheres of influence – one controlled by the US and the other controlled by China and Russia. * Dr. Sizo Nkala is a Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg's Centre for Africa-China Studies. ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL, Independent Media or The African.
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
U.S. Senate confirms Trump's nominee to lead U.S. Africa Command: What it means for Africa
The U.S. Senate has confirmed Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson as the next commander of its Africa Command (AFRICOM), marking a significant shift in American engagement with the continent under President Donald Trump. The U.S. Senate confirmed Lt. Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson as the new commander of AFRICOM This leadership transition occurs amid strategic challenges posed by Russian and Chinese influence and expanding African initiatives. Anderson aims to enhance diplomatic ties and regional stability while addressing emerging geopolitical dynamics within the continent. Anderson, the first Air Force officer to ever lead US AFRICOM in its history, will officially replace Marine Gen. Michael Langley, who made history in 2022 as the first Black four-star Marine. During his tenure, Langley focused on counterterrorism partnerships in West Africa, tracking illicit gold flows that finance extremist groups. Langley's leadership was widely regarded as steady and collaborative, fostering cooperation with A frican partners in intelligence sharing and regional counterterrorism efforts, particularly against al-Shabaab in Somalia and Islamic State affiliates in the Sahel. However, U.S. influence in some major parts of the Sahel region eroded, during his tenure, with several military juntas cutting ties with Western forces and welcoming Russian private military contractors. Meanwhile, Chinese investments in ports, telecoms, and energy projects expanded, giving Beijing growing leverage over African infrastructure. Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson inherits AFRICOM at a strategic crossroads, particularly amid President Trump's "America First, Africa Strong" policy framework, which blends a heightened military posture with targeted commercial engagement. Unlike previous administrations, Washington may prioritize strategic investments in sectors like mining, energy, and digital infrastructure alongside a more assertive security presence. Potential U.S. Engagement In Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Côte d'Ivoire, this could mean expanded military training, counterterrorism funding, and infrastructure support to stabilize conflict-prone regions. In Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa and one of the continent's biggest oil producers, U.S. engagement may lean towards safeguarding energy production in the Niger Delta, improving coastal security in the Gulf of Guinea, and countering Chinese-built telecoms networks. Kenya, as a long-time counterterrorism partner, could see expanded cooperation in drone surveillance, anti-piracy patrols, and digital infrastructure projects aimed at securing East Africa's trade corridors. Algeria, a major military power in North Africa, may find U.S. outreach shaped by competition with Russia for arms sales and influence over Mediterranean security. South Africa, meanwhile, is likely to face diplomatic pressure over its BRICS ties while benefiting from potential American investment in renewable energy and port upgrades. In light of these developments, Anderson, who had previously commanded the U.S. Special Operations Command Africa described Africa as ' the center of a great-power rivalry, ' At his confirmation hearing. He warned that both Russia and China ' see their futures running through the continent. ' highlighting China's growing network of military-to-military engagements and its push for dual-use ports on the Atlantic, describing them as 'worrisome' for U.S. maritime security. During the hearing, Anderson said, 'I believe that the Russian influence and information operations were critical in turning populations against the French in the Sahel. ' He also noted, 'I think it is very much not in our interest what the Russians are doing in the information domain,' When Asked whether the U.S. is losing the 'war for truth,' he replied, ' The truth is incredibly powerful… we need to be more aggressive… if we do not engage, we risk losing it. ' Beyond security concerns, Anderson lauded the $1.2 billion investment by the Trump administration in the Pentagon's Office of Strategic Capital. He emphasized that AFRICOM could serve as a bridge between American investors and African partners, ensuring security considerations are integrated into major projects. For African governments, Anderson's appointment could bring both opportunities and challenges. His record suggests more robust U.S. military cooperation for states aligned with Washington's security agenda, but also greater scrutiny of countries deepening ties with China or Russia.
Business Insider
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Insider
3 things to know about America's recent changes in its military strategy in Africa
With a shift in global military policies, the United States has opted to modify key leadership positions in Africa to confront new threats via AFRICOM. The United States has recently revised key military leadership roles to address emerging global threats, particularly in Africa. For the first time, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is led by an Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson, emphasizing air and space-focused strategies. AFRICOM is considering an autonomous structure and evaluating potential new headquarters in Morocco. Recent appointments in the United States military indicate a move toward greater integration of air and space power across Africa. In a nutshell, the United States Africa Command recently appointed its first Air Force commander. As the United States approaches a crucial development phase and AFRICOM focuses on air operations, here are five key points to consider regarding the U.S's involvement in Africa's security landscape. AFRICOM gets its first Air Force commander Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson has been confirmed as the new head of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). His nomination is the first time that the command has been overseen by an airman rather than a soldier or Marine. Anderson, who has a history in special operations and formerly led the United States Special Operations Command Africa, might provide a new air-and-space-focused perspective to AFRICOM's mission. New command headquarters After the Senate approved a new commander for U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the United States also began considering an autonomous military command for operations in Africa. Morocco is reportedly being evaluated as the probable site for the new command headquarters, according to unconfirmed reports. Up until now, AFRICOM and European Command shared a headquarters, which restricted its ability to respond independently to Africa's quickly changing challenges. What led to the new developments There was a growing debate concerning AFRICOM's future. The Pentagon has proposed lowering the number of senior generals and even integrating AFRICOM with the US European Command, as they did before 2007. At the same time, AFRICOM is increasing airstrikes across Africa, and putting an airman in command rather than soldiers or marines, who have traditionally led the force, might signify a change toward more air and space-focused operations on the continent. AFRICOM U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is one of the United States' 11 unified combatant commands, in charge of directing all US military activities, partnerships, and security interests on the African continent. africom AFRICOM is currently headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and collaborates closely with African countries to combat terrorism, promote stability, and give humanitarian aid.
Business Insider
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Insider
Top 5 things to know about America's recent changes in its military tactics in Africa
With a shift in global military policies, the United States has opted to modify key leadership positions to confront new threats, including those emerging in Africa. AFRICOM and Space Force are two units that have undergone some changes. The United States has recently revised key military leadership roles to address emerging global threats, particularly in Africa. For the first time, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is led by an Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson, emphasizing air and space-focused strategies. AFRICOM is considering an autonomous structure and evaluating potential new headquarters in Morocco. Recent appointments in the United States military indicate a move toward greater integration of air and space power across the continent. In a nutshell, the Space Force gets a new Vice Chief of Space Operations, while the United States Africa Command has its first Air Force commander. As the United States Space Force approaches a crucial development phase and AFRICOM focuses on air operations, here are five key points to consider regarding the intersection of space and Africa's security situation. AFRICOM gets its first Air Force commander Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson has been confirmed as the new head of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). His nomination is the first time that the command has been commanded by an airman rather than a soldier or Marine. Anderson, who has a history in special operations and formerly led the United States Special Operations Command Africa, might provide a new air-and-space-focused perspective to AFRICOM's mission. New command headquarters After the Senate approved a new commander for U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the United States will create an autonomous military command for operations in Africa. Morocco is reportedly being evaluated as the probable site for the new command headquarters, according to unconfirmed reports. Up until now, AFRICOM and European Command shared a structure, which restricted its ability to respond independently to Africa's quickly changing challenges. A new vice chief for Space Force has been confirmed Lieutenant General Shawn N. Bratton has been confirmed as the next Vice Chief of Space Operations. His nomination by the United States Senate puts him at the core of the Space Force's next chapter, as it attempts to broaden its impact and respond to emerging global threats. The Space Force is playing a larger role globally With increased threats from Russian and Chinese anti-satellite technology, the Space Force is requesting additional funding. It also spearheads initiatives such as the "Golden Dome for America" project, which emphasizes the rising relevance of space capabilities in modern combat, particularly in Africa, where surveillance, communication, and navigation systems are critical to US military operations. What led to the new developments There was a growing debate concerning AFRICOM's future. The Pentagon has proposed lowering the number of senior generals and even integrating AFRICOM with the US European Command, as they did before 2007. At the same time, AFRICOM is increasing airstrikes across Africa, and putting an airman in command rather than soldiers or marines, who have traditionally led the force, might signify a change toward more air and space-focused operations on the continent. AFRICOM and Space Force U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is one of the United States' 11 unified combatant commands, in charge of directing all US military activities, partnerships, and security interests on the African continent. africom AFRICOM is currently headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and collaborates closely with African countries to combat terrorism, promote stability, and give humanitarian aid. While AFRICOM does not report directly to the US Space Force, the two are becoming increasingly intertwined. As contemporary warfare increasingly relies on space-based capabilities like as satellite communications, navigation, and intelligence collection, the Space Force plays an important supporting role in AFRICOM missions. With new Air Force leadership now overseeing AFRICOM, coordination between the two commands is anticipated to strengthen, particularly as operations in Africa become increasingly reliant on air and space power.
Business Insider
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Insider
Top 5 things to know about America's recent changes in its military leadership in Africa
With a shift in global military policies, the United States has opted to modify key leadership positions to confront new threats, including those emerging in Africa. AFRICOM and Space Force are two units that have undergone some changes. The United States has recently revised key military leadership roles to address emerging global threats, particularly in Africa. For the first time, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is led by an Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson, emphasizing air and space-focused strategies. AFRICOM is considering an autonomous structure and evaluating potential new headquarters in Morocco. Recent appointments in the United States military indicate a move toward greater integration of air and space power across the continent. In a nutshell, the Space Force gets a new Vice Chief of Space Operations, while the United States Africa Command has its first Air Force commander. As the United States Space Force approaches a crucial development phase and AFRICOM focuses on air operations, here are five key points to consider regarding the intersection of space and Africa's security situation. AFRICOM gets its first Air Force commander Air Force Lt. Gen. Dagvin Anderson has been confirmed as the new head of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). His nomination is the first time that the command has been commanded by an airman rather than a soldier or Marine. Anderson, who has a history in special operations and formerly led the United States Special Operations Command Africa, might provide a new air-and-space-focused perspective to AFRICOM's mission. New command headquarters After the Senate approved a new commander for U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the United States will create an autonomous military command for operations in Africa. Morocco is reportedly being evaluated as the probable site for the new command headquarters, according to unconfirmed reports. Up until now, AFRICOM and European Command shared a structure, which restricted its ability to respond independently to Africa's quickly changing challenges. A new vice chief for Space Force has been confirmed Lieutenant General Shawn N. Bratton has been confirmed as the next Vice Chief of Space Operations. His nomination by the United States Senate puts him at the core of the Space Force's next chapter, as it attempts to broaden its impact and respond to emerging global threats. What led to the new developments There was a growing debate concerning AFRICOM's future. The Pentagon has proposed lowering the number of senior generals and even integrating AFRICOM with the US European Command, as they did before 2007. At the same time, AFRICOM is increasing airstrikes across Africa, and putting an airman in command rather than soldiers or marines, who have traditionally led the force, might signify a change toward more air and space-focused operations on the continent. Leadership changes reflect growing Space-Africa nexus These leadership shifts point to a broader transformation in how the U.S. military views Africa. As AFRICOM intensifies airstrikes against extremist groups and the Space Force ramps up satellite operations, the synergy between space-based assets and on-the-ground missions in Africa is becoming more evident. The continent is poised to become an increasingly strategic theater for integrating air and space operations. AFRICOM and Space Force U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) is one of the United States' 11 unified combatant commands, in charge of directing all US military activities, partnerships, and security interests on the African continent. africom AFRICOM is currently headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and collaborates closely with African countries to combat terrorism, promote stability, and give humanitarian aid. While AFRICOM does not report directly to the US Space Force, the two are becoming increasingly intertwined. As contemporary warfare increasingly relies on space-based capabilities like as satellite communications, navigation, and intelligence collection, the Space Force plays an important supporting role in AFRICOM missions. With new Air Force leadership now overseeing AFRICOM, coordination between the two commands is anticipated to strengthen, particularly as operations in Africa become increasingly reliant on air and space power.
