FAS

CRS on New U.S. Africa Command

05.17.07 | 1 min read | Text by Steven Aftergood

U.S. Government plans to establish a new military command to be known as AFRICOM with responsibility for U.S. military forces in Africa are described in a new report (pdf) from the Congressional Research Service.

“As defined by the Department of Defense, AFRICOM’s mission will be to promote U.S. strategic objectives by working with African states and regional organizations to help strengthen stability and security in the region through improved security capability, military professionalization, and accountable governance. The command’s military operations would aim to deter aggression and respond to crises.”

“This report provides a broad overview of U.S. strategic interests in Africa and the role of U.S. military efforts on the continent as they pertain to the creation of a new Africa Command. Although the command is still in the planning phase, a discussion of AFRICOM’s potential mission, its coordination with other government agencies, and its basing and manpower requirements is included. This report will be updated as events warrant.”

A copy of the new report was obtained by Secrecy News.

See “Africa Command: U.S. Strategic Interests and the Role of the U.S. Military in Africa,” May 16, 2007.

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