The future of the US military’s Africa Command (AFRICOM) is under review, raising questions about Washington’s long-term strategic footprint on the continent. General Michael Langley, AFRICOM’s top commander, urged African leaders to voice their opinions on the potential merger to US officials as Washington considers merging the command with its European counterpart. Established in 2008 to address rising security concerns—including terrorism and geopolitical competition with China and Russia—AFRICOM’s role has become increasingly uncertain amid shifting alliances and military coups in West Africa. Despite recent setbacks, such as the US withdrawal from Niger, Langley emphasized that intelligence sharing with Sahel regimes continues, and that America remains interested in finding new ways to stay engaged in African security affairs.
Reuters
