A Redaction By ARPS Media with TAN TAN, Morocco (AP)
The U.S. military is reorienting its focus in Africa. Instead of promoting good governance and addressing the root causes of insurgencies, it is encouraging allied nations to enhance their self-reliance in security efforts.
During the African Lion exercise, Gen. Michael Langley underscored the importance of “burden sharing” and the need to develop the capabilities of partner nations for independent operations.
This shift in messaging reflects a broader strategy aimed at training African militaries while reducing the U.S. military’s presence and leadership roles on the continent, particularly in the context of rising influence from rivals like China and Russia.
Despite sustained U.S. efforts and significant financial investments in African security, many local armies remain ill-equipped, and the threats posed by insurgent groups such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State continue to escalate.
Regions in both East and West Africa are experiencing increasing violence, with the Sahel and Somalia being especially hard-hit. Langley acknowledged that despite U.S. air support, Somali forces still face challenges in maintaining security.
