Commander of AFRICOM Visits Senegal

U.S. General William E. “Kip” Ward, commander of AFRICOM (United States Africa Command), visited Senegal from June 24-26, 2009. During his stay, he talked with Senegalese military leaders about various subjects of shared interests such as bilateral cooperation, maritime security, and initiatives to fight drug trafficking. General Ward also met with the press, with whom he answered questions concerning military cooperation and security between the United States and Africa, the fight against international terrorism, peace operations, civilian-military programs meant for civilian populations in need of them, etc. In particular, he asserted that the mission of his organization is not to prevent conflicts, but to support countries in reinforcing their capabilities.

General Ward has commanded AFRICOM since October 1, 2007. AFRICOM works for a fruitful partnership between the United States and 53 African nations to institute security and stability on the continent. Based in Stuttgart, Germany, AFRICOM is one of six major geographic Unified Combatant Command areas of the Department of Defense.