US Africa Command: Troop Withdrawal Effects Sahel & Somalia

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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AFRICOM Withdrawal Impact: Sahel Security Concerns Rise

The security situation across Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, is deeply concerning. US Africa Command (AFRICOM) leadership has sounded the alarm about the consequences of pulling troops out. General Michael Langley, AFRICOM’s commander, plainly stated that areas like the Sahel have become “less safe” following recent military withdrawals (Africa’s Sahel is ‘less safe’ after troop withdrawal: AFRICOM). This warning carries significant weight for communities across the continent facing daily threats.

The vacuum left by departing forces appears to be fueling instability. Extremist groups, including JNIM, ISIS affiliates, and Boko Haram, are reportedly expanding their activities. General Langley specifically noted these groups pose a growing threat to coastal West African nations, areas previously considered more stable. Furthermore, the challenges are compounded by weak governance in some nations and disinformation campaigns often linked to Russian interests, creating a volatile mix that allows extremism to fester (Africa’s Sahel is ‘less safe’ after troop withdrawal: AFRICOM). This unstable environment directly impacts the lives and safety of people living in these regions.

Shifts in US Troops in Africa: Niger and Chad Withdrawals

The landscape of US military presence in Africa experienced significant changes in 2024. Over 1,000 American troops were withdrawn from Niger, a central hub for regional counterterrorism operations (Responsible Statecraft). This departure marked a considerable shift, as the US had invested heavily in facilities like Air Base 201 near Agadez.

Similarly, about 75 US personnel left Chad, another key partner nation (Responsible Statecraft). These withdrawals occurred despite stated US goals of maintaining counterterrorism partnerships across the continent. The process involved complex logistics, including the closure of major installations like Niger’s Air Base 201 and Air Base 101 in Niamey. Consequently, the AFRICOM Coordination Element based there fully departed, signaling an end to a specific era of engagement (AFRICOM).

US Military Somalia: A Continued Counterterrorism Focus

While troops have departed from parts of the Sahel, the US maintains a notable military footprint in Somalia. Approximately 500 US personnel remain stationed there, actively engaged in counterterrorism operations (AllAfrica). Their mission involves supporting Somali National Army forces and African Union troops (ATMIS) in their fight against extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS-Somalia.

This continued presence includes conducting airstrikes and providing crucial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Recent operations underscore this ongoing commitment; for instance, US forces targeted senior ISIS commanders, including an individual identified as Ahmed Maeleninine (AllAfrica). Therefore, Somalia remains a critical front where the US is actively working with local partners to combat violent extremism, presenting a contrast to the withdrawal strategy seen elsewhere.

Counterterrorism Sahel: Strategic Hurdles for the US

Maintaining effective counterterrorism partnerships in Africa presents complex strategic challenges for the United States. One major hurdle involves aligning US security goals with African governments, particularly juntas, that are increasingly pursuing partnerships with Russia (Responsible Statecraft). These diverging geopolitical interests can undermine the foundations of long-term security cooperation needed to address shared threats.

Past US approaches have also faced criticism. Some analyses suggest missteps included prioritizing specific tactical training, like urban raids, over more holistic strategies that address the root causes of instability (Responsible Statecraft). Moreover, inconsistent messaging regarding human rights concerns sometimes complicates relationships with partner nations. Navigating these diplomatic and strategic difficulties is crucial for future counterterrorism efforts on the continent.

Troop Withdrawal Threats: Somalia vs. Sahel Outcomes

The differing approaches in Somalia and the Sahel highlight a critical debate about US counterterrorism strategy in Africa. The continued US presence in Somalia, supporting local and regional forces correlates with reported operational successes against Al-Shabaab (AllAfrica). This sustained engagement involves direct action and capacity building, seemingly yielding tangible results in degrading extremist capabilities.

Conversely, the withdrawal of US and other Western forces from key Sahelian nations coincides with warnings of increased instability and expanding extremist influence (Africa’s Sahel is ‘less safe’ after troop withdrawal: AFRICOM). This contrast underscores the potential risks associated with troop withdrawals, particularly when underlying issues like weak governance and external malign influence are not adequately addressed. Ultimately, the divergent outcomes emphasize the complex calculations in deciding where and how to deploy military resources in the fight against terrorism.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.