The United States (U.S) has emphasized the critical link between logistics, communications, security, and economic prosperity during the Africa Logistics and Communications Symposium held in Ethiopia.
Addressing journalists during a digital press briefing on Wednesday, July 29th, 2026, the Deputy Assistant Secretary, Mark Mitchell of the U.S. Department of Commerce and Brigadier General Paul G. Filcek, Director of Logistics at U.S. Africa Command, described the event as a landmark forum that brought together delegates from more than 40 countries and a record 27 private-sector participants.
Mitchell said the symposium offered a unique continent-wide platform to showcase U.S. companies specializing in logistics and communications.
He noted that security is a foundation for economic development and highlighted U.S. support for the Strategic Infrastructure Investment Working Group, launched earlier this year in partnership with the African Union.
“American companies, particularly in logistics and communications, offer some of the best technology and quality available anywhere,” Mitchell stated.
He also highlighted expanding opportunities in Ethiopia, including the Bishoftu International Airport project, the longstanding partnership between Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines, and collaboration with Ethiopia’s Artificial Intelligence Institute.
Brigadier General Filcek emphasized that logistics and communications are the backbone of both military operations and modern societies. He said bringing the two disciplines together for the first time reflects the close relationship and interdependence between them.
“Logistics and communications are the decisive edge because they set the limits of our operational capabilities,” Filcek said.
He cited growing threats such as human trafficking and a sharp rise in illegal narcotics trafficking as reasons why stronger interoperability and closer partnerships are increasingly essential.
Both officials stressed that U.S. engagement is centered on long-term partnerships, high standards, transparency, and strengthening African capacity rather than creating dependency. Filcek also highlighted progress under AFRICOM’s A3I program (Assess, Advise, Advocate, and Integrate), which helps partner nations build greater operational self-sufficiency.
The officials reaffirmed that capable and successful African partners contribute to shared security, stability, and prosperity across the continent.
