AFRICOM

America’s Newest Command Center

What is the mission of AFRICOM?

"United States Africa Command, in concert with other U.S. Government agencies and international partners, conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities, and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy."

Why Is Africa Important to the U.S.?

Economic

• $26B in imports from Africa.
• $18B in exports to Africa
• 14% of U.S. oil imports
• Emerging markets
• Investment opportunities

Political

• Sub-Saharan African countries represent approximately 26 percent of the UN’s voting members
• Democracy and good governance

Security

• Confront transnational threats
• Protect citizens and embassies
• Mitigate crises

Social

Combat infectious and preventable diseases

Does the U.S. military have concerns specific to East Africa?

• The Congo, Sudan and Somalia have experienced ongoing conflict for some time; concern with power vacuums in certain areas that will allow terror organizations to move in
• 1990's bombings of U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania
• Piracy along the East African coast