Washington: Digital press briefings have underscored the strategic importance of U.S.-Africa security cooperation as leaders from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) emphasized efforts to fortify partnerships in Africa, focusing on Angola and Namibia. The briefing was led by Lt. Gen. John W. Brennan, AFRICOM's Deputy Commander, and Ambassador Robert Scott, Deputy to the Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, who addressed the significance of collaborations that aim to bolster regional stability and defense through African-led initiatives.
According to EMM, the briefing highlighted AFRICOM's commitment to minimizing direct U.S. military involvement by empowering local military and civil institutions in Africa. Lt. Gen. Brennan and Ambassador Scott stressed the importance of African-led solutions to security challenges, with training and exercises being partner-led and ally-enabled. They emphasized the cost-effectiveness of initiatives like the Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) programs, which foster strategic relationships and collective defense efforts across the continent.
Ambassador Scott noted the interconnectedness of security with economic development, particularly in maritime and trade domains. He highlighted Angola's Lobito Corridor and Namibia's Walvis Bay as crucial hubs for regional trade, supported by U.S.-led initiatives to enhance maritime domain awareness. AFRICOM's efforts in these areas aim to secure coastlines and facilitate trade, reducing the time taken for goods to move through critical trade routes.
In response to questions, both leaders provided examples of AFRICOM's support for African-led security solutions in Angola and Namibia. Lt. Gen. Brennan reiterated the importance of regional exercises such as African Lion and Obangame Express, which aim to include more African nations in military collaborations. Ambassador Scott emphasized the Lobito Corridor's role in leveraging security for economic development, enhancing trade efficiency, and securing maritime operations.
Questions from journalists addressed the perception of U.S.-Africa relations, emphasizing a partnership approach rather than a patron-client dynamic. Lt. Gen. Brennan highlighted that all exercises and engagements are African-led, reinforcing mutual security goals. Ambassador Scott added that regional initiatives like the Yaoundé Code of Conduct are supported by U.S. training and legal frameworks to enhance maritime security across the continent.
The briefing also covered AFRICOM's strategies in Southern Africa, with a focus on expanding military cooperation and addressing emerging security threats. Lt. Gen. Brennan highlighted the significance of Southern Africa in U.S. defense strategy, mentioning the approval of Angola for the State Partnership Program, which fosters military and civilian collaborations with U.S. states.
In conclusion, AFRICOM leaders reiterated the importance of building partner capacities and enabling multilateral operations to address security challenges across Africa. The briefing reflected AFRICOM's strategic focus on advancing U.S.-Africa security cooperation through African-led solutions, aiming for long-term stability and development in the region.