Africa should take greater ownership of its own security challenges. That was the message recently communicated by General Michael Langley, head of US Africa Command (USAFRICOM). The unit is part of the US Department of Defense and is responsible for all defense operations and security cooperation on the African continent. 

The announcement comes as the United States rethinks its military strategy in Africa, signaling a significant shift in its approach to security on the continent.

This adjustment aligns with a broader strategic pivot under the Trump administration, which is prioritizing homeland security and a leaner, more lethal military force, while reducing the US military footprint overseas, including in Africa.

But what could it mean for the continent?

Africa's global relevance

With its growing population and vast natural resources, Africa is strategically important to Europe and the United States.

"Africa is a strategic partner with a large and growing youth population — projected to double by 2045 according to the African Economic Outlook," Adib Saani, a foreign policy and security analyst, told DW. "The continent is rich, holding vast mineral resources and strategic reserves like uranium that both Western and Eastern countries heavily rely on." The continent was also home to 11 of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024.

"The US and others engage with Africa not just out of goodwill but because these resources are vital for running industries worldwide," Saani said. "This makes the relationship mutually beneficial — a win-win for Africa and the rest of the world."

However, the Trump administration's defense strategy has shifted focus away from protecting the US from threats emanating from abroad, including countering terrorist organizations such as the so-called "Islamic State" (IS) militant group and al-Qaeda, which have expanded their presence and capabilities in Africa.

'Sharing the burden' of US-Africa security operations

Previously, US military efforts in Africa combined defense, diplomacy and development.

"America has been a close partner in countering violent extremism, especially in Eastern and West Africa," Saani explained. "We have relied heavily on US logistics, training and intelligence sharing to address these threats. In terms of human security, the US has also contributed through USAID and other programs that have helped lift many out of poverty."

USAFRICOM head Langley said the military's priorities now focus on homeland protection, encouraging instead "burden sharing" with African partners. He said the goal is to build local military capacity to enable independent operations and reduce reliance on US forces.

This shift was evident during the latest African Lion joint military exercise. The annual event is the largest military exercise on the continent and emphasizes combined air, land and sea operations with more than 40 participating nations. The latest edition, in May, lacked the US-led efforts usually apparent and instead focused on collaboration and cooperation. 

What could reduced US involvement mean?

Yet foreign policy analyst Adib Saani warned that a diminished US presence could create a power vacuum, emboldening militant networks and undermining years of counterterrorism efforts.

"If the US withdraws its support, it would hit us hard. It could embolden terrorists to carry out more lethal and audacious attacks, knowing there is no major power backing our fight. This would also dampen the morale of our soldiers who face these threats daily, and place significant economic pressure on affected countries," he said.

USAFRICOM currently deploys roughly 6,500 personnel across Africa and has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in security assistance. Without that, Saani worries that Africa will not be able to be fully independent in terms of security.

"It will be difficult in terms of logistics and technology — we are simply not there yet. Security is a shared responsibility and works best when it involves multiple actors. In my opinion, Africa cannot do it alone."

Russia, China step in to fill security vacuum

African countries will need to look for other allies — both new and old, say experts. China has already launched extensive military training programs for African forces, replicating aspects of the US military model, while Russian mercenaries have established themselves as key security partners in North, West and Central Africa.

"China's approach in the past has mainly been economic," Saani explained. The US, he pointed out, has primarily focused on military support, in addition to providing economic help. "The Russians have strong presence with both economic and military involvement. It feels like everyone is competing for attention. The clear message is that there's a need to diversify partnerships. We can't rely solely on the US; we may also need to engage more with the Russians and others."

Can Africa succeed alone?

Some voices say the lack of US support could be a wake-up call for African countries, forcing them to consider their own resources and rise to the challenge.

African nations must now take the opportunity to review their security resources, Saani said, and collaborate more closely. 

"Building up our defense industry is also critical. This means developing industrial capacity and enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces," he added.

"We also need to tackle corruption to ensure that funds are not getting lost in people's pockets but are instead used to improve people's lives."

Editor: Sarah Hucal