By Matik Kueth
The 2025 African Chiefs of Defense Conference, led by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), is set to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday.
The event occurs at a time when numerous African nations are grappling with political upheaval, economic hardship, and humanitarian crises, factors that could threaten U.S. interests on the continent and open avenues for increased competition from other global powers.
In a statement obtained by King Media on Tuesday, Brig. Gen. George Dietrick, AFRICOM’s Director of Logistics, noted that the meeting will serve as a platform for open dialogue, sharing expertise, and fostering collaboration on key issues such as emerging technologies, military education, and civilian-military partnerships.
The conference serves as a top forum for African military commanders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and solve pressing security issues.
Building on the success of the 2024 conference in Botswana, which included over 70 bilateral contacts, Brig. Gen. Dietrick stressed the importance of strengthening alliances and encouraging African-led solutions.
“Leveraging the achievements of the 2024 conference held in Botswana, which featured more than 70 bilateral engagements, we seek to strengthen partnerships and elevate African-led solutions,” Brig. Gen. Dietrick said.
This year’s theme, “Strengthening African security, sustaining unity of efforts,” underscores the importance of collective action.”
Last year’s Gabron conference focused on shared security concerns, partnerships, and information sharing.
Dietrick added that, “This time, the U.S. is co-hosting with Kenya, bringing together military leaders from across the continent to discuss challenges and develop collaborative solutions.”