US AFRICOM Commander hails KDF for leading role in regional peace

U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) Commander General Michael Langley has praised the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) for their outstanding contribution to regional peace and stability through their involvement in peacekeeping operations.

In an interview with a local media outlet on the evening of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, General Langley commended Kenya’s active role in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which succeeded the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

He emphasized the importance of KDF’s efforts in supporting peace and security initiatives across the region.

General Langley noted that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) are widely recognized in East Africa as a leading force and a reliable provider of regional security.

"KDF has built a strong reputation as a stabilizing force in the region, playing a central role in missions like AMISOM and now ATMIS," he said.

He also highlighted the positive sentiments expressed by Somali leaders, particularly President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who has consistently acknowledged the critical role both ATMIS and its predecessor, AMISOM, have played in advancing peace and security in Somalia.

"I had a meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and he spoke very highly of the Kenyan forces serving along the Somali border," General Langley added.

General Langley raised alarm over the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab, warning that the militant group, with backing from Al-Qaeda, continues to infiltrate Somalia in a bid to expand its control and establish a parallel governing structure.

"Al-Shabaab, supported by Al-Qaeda, aims to position itself as a shadow government and carry out harmful activities that exploit the Somali people," he said.

Langley reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working alongside African nations to help them achieve their full potential in terms of self-governance, national sovereignty, and freedom.

"This is a real concern. The impact of such groups is far from positive for Africa. We, as Americans, are focused on ensuring that Africans can reach their highest potential through independence, sovereignty, and liberty," he added.

General Langley, who is currently in Nairobi for the 2025 African Chiefs of Defence Conference (ACHOD25), also highlighted the forum’s critical role in strengthening communication among Africa’s top military leaders.

He noted that the conference has created a platform for candid discussions on security and defence challenges, helping to build a unified approach toward promoting peace and stability across the continent.

"The Africa Chiefs of Defence Conference has significantly broadened discussions around military and security issues, as well as the shared goals for achieving peace and stability across the continent," he said.

The conference, co-hosted by AFRICOM and the Kenya Defence Forces, is a high-level summit that brings together military leaders from 37 African countries.

It also includes participation from U.S. Naval Forces Africa, Special Operations Command Africa, U.S. Air Forces Africa, and U.S. Army Africa, focusing on transnational threats and the reinforcement of regional partnerships.