The United States is evaluating the future of its military command for Africa, AFRICOM, with discussions underway on its potential merger with U.S. European Command, according to AFRICOM’s top general.
General Michael Langley, speaking before a conference of African defense leaders in Kenya, urged African governments to communicate their stance on the possible change. He noted that he has engaged with several defense ministers and some presidents about the assessment. “If we’re that important to you, you need to communicate that through your ambassadors in the U.S.,” Langley said.
Founded in 2008, AFRICOM was created in response to increasing U.S. security concerns in Africa, including the rise of Islamist militancy and geopolitical competition with China and Russia. However, U.S. influence has waned in West Africa due to recent military coups, which led to a shift in alliances, with some countries seeking Russian support.
Last year, Niger’s junta ordered U.S. forces to withdraw from the country, including evacuating a $100 million drone base. Despite this, Langley confirmed that the U.S. continues to share intelligence with Sahelian military regimes and seeks new methods of engagement in the region.