U.S. Africa Command Strengthens Counterterrorism Efforts in East Africa

From November 23 to 27, 2025, U.S. Air Force General Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), conducted a series of high-level visits across East Africa, specifically in Ethiopia, Somaliland, and Puntland, Somalia. The primary objective of these visits was to enhance the United States' strategic approach to countering terrorism through mutual engagement and aligned security priorities. Anderson's engagements included discussions with key government and defense leaders to address the growing threats posed by terrorist organizations such as ISIS and al-Shabaab.

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

In Ethiopia, Anderson met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Field Marshal Birhanu Jula Gelelcha, chief of the Ethiopian National Defense Force. The discussions centered on the increasing security challenges in the region and the importance of collaborative efforts to combat these threats. In Somaliland, he engaged with President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and military leaders, emphasizing the shared responsibility of countering terrorism. His visit included an assessment of the security environment at the Port of Berbera, a critical strategic location.

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

Anderson's final stop was Puntland, where he met with Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor and General Adan Abdi Hashi, chief of Puntland Defense Forces. During this meeting, he praised Puntland's maximum-pressure campaign against ISIS in the Golis Mountains, highlighting the need for intensified operations to combat the terrorist threat effectively. Anderson reiterated that the U.S. remains committed to supporting African partner forces that are making tangible progress in their counterterrorism efforts.

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

General Anderson articulated the rationale behind his visit, stating, “The whole reason I came here is because we have shared threats. I understand what the issues are, and we’re here to help empower our African partners to address these threats in a united way.” He emphasized that countering terrorism is a collective responsibility, asserting that “together we can build a more prosperous and secure future for the United States, for Africa and most importantly, for our children.”

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

While the visits were aimed at strengthening partnerships, some critics argue that U.S. military involvement in Africa may not address the root causes of terrorism and could lead to increased anti-American sentiment. They suggest that a more comprehensive approach, including economic development and political stability, is necessary to effectively combat terrorism in the region.

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

• “During the engagement, Anderson emphasized that countering terrorism is a shared responsibility that no single nation can shoulder alone.” — Gen. Dagvin Anderson, Commander, U.S. Africa Command

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

• “As we face the growing security threats, including the rise of terrorist activities in East Africa, the Sahel, and West Africa’s coastal regions, the collective efforts are more important than ever.” — Gen. Dagvin Anderson, Commander, U.S. Africa Command

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa

Through these engagements, AFRICOM aims to reinforce its commitment to countering terrorism in East Africa, recognizing the evolving security landscape that impacts both regional and global stability.

AFRICOM Commander makes high-level visits to East Africa