John Brennan, deputy commander of the United States Africa Command, says U.S. operations in Africa are Africa-led, promoting African solutions to African conflicts.

Mr Brennan was joined by Robert Scott, deputy commander for civil-military engagement, at a digital news conference during their visit to the continent on Monday.

The conference highlighted AFRICOM’s efforts to strengthen partnerships, promote stability, and enhance collective defence across the African region.

Mr Brennan explained that AFRICOM’s engagements emphasise cost-effective, African-led solutions that reduce direct U.S. military involvement through Joint Combined Exercise Training programmes.

“In the security sector, we assess our partners’ needs. We’ve done that in both Namibia and Angola,” he said during the briefing. “Based on assessments, we offer options for purchasing equipment, receiving training, and other support tailored to those countries’ requirements.”

He emphasised that all training and exercises are African-led, partner-led, and supported by allies to maintain regional autonomy and effectiveness.

Mr Brennan also said AFRICOM partners with African nations to secure investments, contributing to a broader ecosystem of development and economic cooperation. He announced Angola’s approval for the U.S. State Partnership Programme, noting that investment thrives where there is a strong sense of security.

Security, he said, encourages investment, helps countries present themselves as safe partners, and lowers risk for American business interests in Africa.

“We’re happy Angola is joining the State Partnership Programme — an incredibly valuable initiative for African nations,” Mr Brennan stated.

He noted it strengthens ties beyond military cooperation, involving U.S. Air and Army National Guard units in strategic relationships with African counterparts.

“The Lobito Corridor in Angola shows how security can support infrastructure and development,” he said, linking defence to regional growth.

He reiterated that the U.S. prioritises lasting solutions to African conflicts, deliberately avoiding direct intervention due to the complexity of counterterrorism without a ground presence.

Mr Brennan said AFRICOM helped build the capabilities of African partners, enabling them to counter terrorism and conduct multilateral operations with U.S. support where necessary.

“Jihadist groups operate around Angola and Namibia. ISIS has a presence in Mozambique and South Africa,” he warned.

He also noted an emerging threat from Mexican drug cartels operating from South Africa and coastal West Africa.

“Our goal is to shield Namibia and Angola from these threats and help prepare them for any future challenges,” he said.

AFRICOM, Mr Brennan said, remained active in East Africa, particularly Somalia, targeting groups such as ISIS, al-Shabaab, and al-Qaeda affiliates. 

(NAN)