Carter Ham

United States Africa Command protects and defends the national security interests of the United States by strengthening the defense capabilities of African states and regional organizations, and, when directed, conducts military operations, in order to deter and defeat transnational threats and to provide a security environment conducive to good governance and development. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the formation of the command. Since our start in 2008, our operational capabilities and capacities have markedly increased. In parallel, our relationship with African partners and our security cooperation engagements have matured in both focus and effectiveness. Our integrated approach seeks to address the greatest near-term threats to our national security while simultaneously building long-term partnerships and fostering regional cooperation.