International military engagement in Africa

International actors are expanding their military and security engagement in Africa through capacity-building initiatives.

France is transitioning its strategy toward prioritizing partnerships over a permanent presence. Through the TANDEM detachment program, French personnel will conduct eight weeks of operational training in eight countries, including Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo. This training covers specialized areas such as drone operations, riverine and forest combat, engineering, and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Simultaneously, China has reaffirmed and expanded its commitment to African security cooperation. Building on the 2024 China-Africa summit roadmap, Beijing plans to provide 1 billion yuan in military aid and train 6,000 African soldiers, along with 500 young officers and 1,000 police officers in China. These efforts focus on addressing terrorism, violent extremism, and maritime security, aligning with African Union calls for improved border management and logistics.

At the 4th China-Africa Peace and Security Forum in Beijing, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun pledged deeper military and security cooperation with 41 African nations and the African Union. This expanded initiative aims to address regional threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime security challenges along vital trade routes. Key components of this relationship include joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and military training, with an emphasis on establishing defense exchange mechanisms based on equality and mutual benefit.