The United States says it is adopting a new approach to security cooperation in Africa by focusing on intelligence sharing, technology, and specialized support while encouraging African countries to take the lead in addressing regional security challenges.
Speaking after the 2026 African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Luanda, Angola, the commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, said long-term peace and stability on the continent must be driven by African nations, with the United States providing strategic capabilities rather than large-scale troop deployments.
The conference brought together military leaders from 35 African countries, along with representatives from the United States and Brazil, to discuss issues including terrorism, maritime security, technological innovation, and the relationship between security and economic development.
Anderson explained that intelligence sharing will remain one of Washington’s key contributions to African security efforts, particularly in combating terrorist groups operating across different regions of the continent. He cited a recent joint counterterrorism operation in Nigeria’s Lake Chad Basin targeting a senior ISIS leader, adding that U.S. personnel deployed for the mission were later withdrawn while intelligence cooperation continued at Nigeria’s request.
He also identified affordable drone technology as an important part of the new strategy, noting that commercially available drones now provide cost-effective options for surveillance and military operations. According to him, innovation also includes improvements in communications systems, software, intelligence analysis, and personnel training.
The AFRICOM commander stressed that stronger security is essential for attracting investment, creating jobs, and supporting economic growth. He added that lasting stability depends on African governments and regional institutions taking ownership of security efforts, while the United States continues to provide intelligence, surveillance, and specialized counterterrorism assistance.
The strategy reflects Washington’s growing emphasis on strengthening partnerships that promote African self-reliance in responding to evolving security threats.
