Why the US has an entire military command just for Africa
The United States has maintained a dedicated military command for Africa, known as AFRICOM in recognition of the continent’s growing strategic importance in global security, politics, and economics.
Formally established in 2007, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. It oversees all US military operations, security partnerships, and crisis responses across 53 African nations, excluding Egypt, which falls under US Central Command.
Its stated mission is to “strengthen defense capabilities of African states and regional organizations” and to “counter transnational threats.” In practice, that often means working alongside African militaries, training security forces, and carrying out counterterrorism operations.
The command was created at a time when extremist groups were expanding their footprint on the continent. From al-Qaeda-linked militants in the Sahel to al-Shabaab in Somalia, African security challenges quickly became seen as part of wider global terrorism networks.
Today, AFRICOM coordinates drone strikes, intelligence gathering, and joint exercises with African armies. It also supports multinational operations, such as those led by the African Union Mission in Somalia.
Some African governments view AFRICOM with suspicion, seeing it as an extension of American military influence.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
