A Call to Arms: Reinforcing Africa’s Fight Against Extremism

Sitting in Stuttgart, Germany, the global epicenter of military strategy—an unlikely backdrop for the heart-wrenching dialogue about Africa’s future—was now buzzing with a profound purpose. General Charles Kahariri, Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, delivered a plea that echoed beyond those hallowed halls, reaching the very soul of international security mandates.

Unraveling Gains: The Impact of Troop Drawdowns

Amidst the gilded conference rooms at AFRICOM Headquarters, the discussions were anything but routine. The stakes were sky-high. The recent reduction in the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) has left a gaping void that threatens the delicate balance in the fight against Al-Shabaab. “Substantial gaps risk undermining years of effort,” Kahariri emphasized, his voice carrying the weight of a continent’s aspirations.

Efforts have been made to alleviate the immediate threats. “Kenya and other troop-contributing countries have entered bilateral arrangements with Somalia,” Kahariri noted. However, his voice carried grave concern when he added, “Such measures are unsustainable without enhanced international backing.” The threatened destabilization extends beyond Somalia, imperiling the entire Horn of Africa.

A History of Perseverance: Somalia’s Journey

Somalia’s struggle against extremism has been a long road, paved with international efforts. The African Union’s involvement began with AMISOM, morphing through several iterations, finally becoming AUSSOM in January 2025. Through the years, these missions have collectively faced down insurgency, giving Somalia room to breathe, grow, and rebuild.

But, as we are reminded, peace is fragile—a delicate glass figurine in a war-torn theater. Without a reaffirmed global commitment, this progress could swiftly dissipate. “Years of military progress and political stabilization could be undone,” Kahariri warned, a caution emphatically echoed throughout the meeting.

Forging Forward: A New Partnership Paradigm

Standing shoulder to shoulder at this crucial juncture, Generals Kahariri and Michael Langley—Commander of US Africa Command—reaffirmed their strategic partnership. “The Kenya Defence Forces’ contributions are pivotal,” Langley commended, highlighting their role in regional security.

The leaders presented a landmark document, the Joint Communiqué from the African Chiefs of Defence Conference (ACHOD), co-signed in Stuttgart. This communiqué isn’t merely an agenda; it’s a visionary map charting a course for security alliances and proactive measures across Africa. Langley’s words drilled home its significance: “It is a shared commitment…to deliver results that strengthen security across Africa.”

The Blueprint for Progress

Outlined in vivid detail, the communiqué comprises five essential pillars:

• Expanding security partnerships
• Standardizing doctrine and enhancing information sharing
• Countering emerging threats through innovation
• Strengthening defence institutions
• Advancing African-led security initiatives

These aren’t lofty ideals but actionable missions, a recipe for stability baked with strategic intent. Kahariri stated it plainly, “This roadmap ensures dialogue transforms into measurable results,” as Africa braces for the ACHOD 2026 session with renewed vigor.

Reflecting on the Path Ahead

As countries around the globe confront their own challenges, the call from Africa resonates louder—peace and security are inherently intertwined, transcending borders. Why should Africa’s battle against extremism concern a global citizen? Because, in an interconnected world, instability breeds wider repercussions, rippling across oceans and societies.

History beckons us to act. Will the international community rise to meet the challenge or remain ensconced in distant citadels, watching progress unravel from afar? Africa waits, not in silent desperation, but with a clarion call for support.

In reflecting on these profound developments, one question remains: How will we collectively shape the future? The answers lie not just within military strategies penned in Stuttgart, but in every act of support, every voice raised in solidarity, every nation committed to a peaceful tomorrow.

By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.