U.S. Military Chief calls for African-led fight against terrorism
The United States’ top military official for Africa is calling for a unified, African-led response to the escalating threat of terrorism across the continent. General Michael Langley, Commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), issued the call during remarks following the Africa Chiefs of Defense Conference held in Nairobi last week.
General Langley warned that extremist violence is increasingly encroaching on the coastal nations of West Africa, placing countries like Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Benin on the frontlines of the battle against violent extremism. “These nations are now the outer ring of defense,” Langley said. “They are holding the line as terror networks push south from the Sahel.”
Langley commended the efforts of African military leaders who, he said, are already taking decisive steps to counter the threat. However, he stressed the urgent need for enhanced regional coordination, intelligence sharing, and long-term international support. “The foundation of real, lasting security is not just military strength, but the resilience of communities. Security forces must be embedded in and accountable to the people they serve,” he noted.
Highlighting Ghana’s proactive stance in bolstering its northern borders, Langley praised the country’s commitment to resisting the spread of militant groups. He reaffirmed AFRICOM’s role as a strategic partner, providing training, logistical support, and intelligence assistance to bolster local capabilities.
Langley’s remarks come as conditions continue to deteriorate across the Sahel, where countries like Burkina Faso face deepening instability. Vast areas of territory there are reportedly beyond government control, and insurgent groups affiliated with ISIS and al-Qaida have intensified their activities. In the Lake Chad region, violence and attacks are also on the rise.
In East Africa, the U.S. has expanded its direct counterterrorism operations, conducting more than 25 airstrikes in Somalia this year alone against al-Shabaab militants. These operations form part of a broader strategy to contain extremist threats and support local forces.
As he prepares to conclude his tenure as head of AFRICOM, General Langley underscored the importance of enduring partnerships based on mutual trust, cooperation, and respect for African leadership.
“Our long-term security goals cannot be achieved without Africa taking the lead. We’re not here to dictate. We’re here to support,” he said. General Langley’s message marks a shift toward greater African ownership of regional security challenges, signaling a collaborative future between U.S. forces and African allies in the ongoing battle against terrorism
