The number of Islamic jihadist terrorism incidents in Africa has increased tenfold in the past 26 years, according to the top US general.

The number of Islamic jihadist terrorists in Africa has surged tenfold, according to the head of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).

In a comprehensive interview, Langley discussed the dangers posed by China, Russia, and Iran, and shed light on a possible change in U.S. military strategy, particularly in West Africa, after Niger requested the departure of 1,000 American troops.

The general stated that they have been tracking and analyzing indications and warnings related to Islamic terror for several years. For example, in 2008, only 4% of Islamic jihadists were active on the African continent. However, this number has since increased to 40%. As a result, AFRICOM's mission of providing indications and warnings, monitoring, and responding is crucial for protecting the homeland.

AFRICOM's mission is to deter threats, gain access and influence, and respond to crises on the African continent.

Langley expressed concern over Chinese operations in Africa, stating that they are exploitative and coercive when necessary, as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

"Occasionally, they aspire to possess military capabilities and capacity. They already have a base in Doraleh, Djibouti. It remains uncertain what their ultimate aspirations are. Will it be power projection or air denial in defense? We are unsure. Currently, they claim it is for counter-piracy. As a result, we are constantly monitoring their global intentions in the strategic realm."

In recent years, Wagner's activities in Africa have increased, with the company attempting to establish itself as a preferred security partner in several countries across the Sahel, including Libya, the Central African Republic, and other regions.

"The general stated that the Russian MOD (Ministry of Defense) has become the sponsor of disinformation campaigns after the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin. As a result, we closely monitor this activity to determine the overall strategic objectives of the Russian Federation."

The U.S. needs to increase its information operations to counter Russia's disinformation campaign in the African theater of operations, according to him. He suggests that the U.S. should adopt a whole government approach to partner with African partners and address their challenges, such as climate change and violent extremist organizations, to establish shared values and objectives of stability and security.

"Our assurance actions, holistic offerings, and partnership-building initiatives across various government departments and security forces are the comprehensive solution to counter extremist organizations."

Iran is reportedly active in mining uranium in countries such as Niger and Sudan. When asked about this, Langley only stated that they are closely monitoring Iran's activities. Recent reports suggest that Iran may be exporting or arranging to export uranium from Niger. While uranium can be used for peaceful nuclear power, it is also known as a key component in the production of nuclear weapons.

Earlier this year, Niger's Russian-leaning military junta instructed U.S. forces to withdraw approximately 1,000 personnel from the country. The U.S. has two air bases in Nigeria, from which manned and unmanned aircraft have been conducting missions against terror groups such as Boko Haram.

The Pentagon has announced that all U.S. personnel will leave Niger after months of reportedly heated negotiations. According to Langley, the country's repositioning and moving of equipment and assets are on track, and they are confident that they will continue to meet their benchmarks.

The Department of Defense (DOD) official has confirmed to Planet Chronicle Digital that all U.S. personnel will be off Base 101 in Niger's capital, Niamey, by mid-July. Additionally, the official stated that all Americans will have departed the larger base 201 at Agadez by Sept. 15.

In Niger, he emphasized that the safety of our troops is paramount. Langley is also anticipating a responsible, orderly withdrawal that is agreed upon by both the U.S. government and the transitional government of the CNSP (Niger’s military junta).

On May 19, the DOD announced that the US and Niger had established procedures to facilitate the entry and exit of US personnel, including overflight and landing clearances for military flights.

He emphasized a shift in policy regarding the movement of U.S. personnel and their manned aircraft and drones from Niger. "In terms of our air bases, such as 201 and 101, they were established based on the requirements of the past decade."

"Our strategy currently calls for increasing security cooperation activities, including security force assistance brigades, state partnership programs, and exercises, to build partnership and capacity."

The U.S. military strategy in Africa will be holistically adjusted across the Sahel region and extend into West Africa, as informed by the threat. This strategy will be African-led, with specifications provided.

This week, Langley is attending the Africa Chiefs of Defense Conference in Botswana, where 35 countries are participating. The U.S. is co-hosting the event with Botswana. Langley stated that the conference is a demonstration of the African-led approach to addressing major challenges and security issues across the continent, not just in the Sahel region. He added that he is on a listening tour and that recommendations will be presented and discussed.