The Commander of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, shared the command’s strategy during an online press briefing on 3 February 2026. He explained that AFRICOM follows a partner-led approach that connects security efforts with economic development across Africa.

General Anderson marked his first six months in command by speaking about recent diplomatic work, including a joint mission to Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. He used both past and current examples to show how security investments can support economic growth. He pointed to projects such as Ethiopian Airlines and the new runway in Lamu County, Kenya, saying they help create economic corridors that bring long-term benefits to communities and countries.

The General said that countering terrorism remains a top priority, especially threats from groups such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Al-Shabaab. He noted that multinational military exercises planned for 2026, including African Lion in Morocco, Cutlass Express in Mozambique, and the Flintlock special operations exercise in Côte d’Ivoire with a Libyan component, will help different forces work better together and improve coordination.

He also shared examples to show how partnerships are working. He said US airstrikes in Somalia have helped partner forces continue operations against ISIS strongholds. He added that cooperation with Nigeria in West Africa has strengthened intelligence sharing, which is helping to counter terrorist threats in the region.

General Anderson and Sergeant Major Garric Banfield, the command’s senior enlisted leader, both stressed that security and stability are necessary before investors can set up businesses and create jobs. They said US military cooperation helps create the conditions needed for long-term economic growth and stability in the region.