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SETAF-AF tests translation tech during Angola crisis response training
LUANDA, Angola — As U.S. Army medical professionals concluded a week-long knowledge exchange with the Angolan Military Health Division, U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) medical and public affairs personnel conducted a parallel test of emerging technology designed to bridge language gaps during multinational engagements, Sept. 20-27. While the medical team focused on infection control, trauma surgery and epidemiology, SETAF-AF public affairs personnel conducted a field test of two real-time translation apps, aiming to identify scalable, no-cost tools that bridge language gaps when dedicated interpreters are unavailable. “We’re always looking for ways to improve how we tell the story of our missions,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Tucker Chase, a public affairs officer assi...
New capabilities on horizon for African Lion 2026
AGADIR, Morocco – A multinational team of planners from military, government and industry sectors convened with the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR) in Agadir, Morocco, from Dec. 8-12, 2025, for the mid planning event (MPE) for African Lion 2026 (AL26). The week-long event allowed this diverse group of planners to synchronize and refine objectives. A central focus for AL26 will be a challenging command field exercise designed to validate the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa’s (SETAF-AF) ability to lead a Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF). The exercise will test the task force’s capacity to integrate U.S. forces with those from Morocco and other participating nations, a critical step in promoting regional security. For AL26 in Morocco, planners are exploring the in...
U.S. Africa Command Leadership Completes First Visit to Tunisia
U.S. Air Force Gen. Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command, visited Tunis, Tunisia, with AFRICOM senior leaders, Nov. 12-14. Continuing a relationship over 200 years old, the command engaged face-to-face with Tunisian partners for discussions and demonstrations on how U.S.-Tunisia defense engagements have advanced Tunisia’s military operational capacity and contributions to regional security. Africa remains an evolving and diverse theater requiring continued U.S. focus. The continent’s security efforts transcend African borders to support European and global security and stability, to include the U.S. homeland. During the trip, Anderson — accompanied by U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Ben Snell, AFRICOM J2 director; U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Justin Hoffman, AFRICOM J3 director; and U.S...
Nigerian-American Officer Appointed Senior Pentagon Strategist
Brigadier General Chinedu Okafor, a distinguished Nigerian-American officer, has been appointed to a senior strategic role at the Pentagon, contributing directly to U.S. national defense planning and global security policy. His appointment reflects decades of disciplined service, intellectual excellence, and trusted leadership at the highest levels of command. Serving at the Pentagon places Brig. Gen. Okafor among the elite decision-makers shaping the future of the U.S. Armed Forces. This milestone represents a proud moment for African-American and African immigrant families and reinforces the importance of representation in strategic military leadership.
BREAKING NEWS: Capt. Kelechi Ndukwe Promoted to Commodore
First Nigerian and Igbo-American to Command a U.S. Navy Warship History has been made as Captain Kelechi Ndukwe earns promotion to Commodore, taking command of the prestigious U.S. Destroyer Squadron 60 and serving as Commander, Task Force 65, based in Rota, Spain. This remarkable achievement not only highlights his dedication and leadership but also marks a monumental milestone for Nigerians and the wider African diaspora. Commodore Ndukwe is widely celebrated as the first Nigerian and Igbo-American officer to command a U.S. Navy warship — a feat that has inspired pride across communities worldwide. Hailing from Okoko-Item in Abia State, Nigeria, his story is a shining example of excellence, resilience, and the limitless opportunities available through discipline and service. His rise is ...
Ghanaian-American Marine Receives Medal of Valor for Humanitarian Mission
Courage, sacrifice, and compassion met on the battlefield when Staff Sergeant Kwame Mensah, a Ghanaian-American serving in the United States Marine Corps, was awarded the prestigious Medal of Valor for his role in a humanitarian mission that saved dozens of lives. The mission, conducted in the aftermath of a devastating cyclone in Southeast Asia, required quick thinking and selfless action. When floodwaters cut off access to stranded villagers, Mensah led a small team through dangerous terrain, ensuring the delivery of critical supplies and the safe evacuation of children and elderly survivors. The commanding officer overseeing the operation praised Mensah’s bravery: “He put others before himself in conditions that could have easily cost him his life. His actions embody the Marine Corps et...