In recent years, the strategic landscape of Africa has evolved significantly, drawing the attention of global powers, particularly the United States.
As security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, and geopolitical tensions continue to rise across the continent, the US has established a network of military bases in various African nations.
In this article, WoA explores the dynamics of US military presence in Africa, examining the countries involved and the motivations behind these bases.
1. Cameroon
The US maintains a military presence in Cameroon, primarily through Contingency Location Garoua, an Army base situated adjacent to Cameroonian Air Force Base 301 in Garoua.
Approximately 200 US personnel are stationed at this site.
Established in 2015, the base’s mission is to support Cameroonian Defense Forces in combating regional violent extremism, notably the Boko Haram insurgency.
US forces provide intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistical support to enhance local military capabilities.
2. Chad
The US runs a military presence in Chad, primarily focusing on counterterrorism operations in the Sahel region.
Historically, US forces have operated from bases such as the Adji Kossei Air Base near N’Djamena, where they trained Chadian special forces to combat extremist groups like Boko Haram.
In April 2024, the Chadian government requested the withdrawal of US troops from the Adji Kossei Air Base, leading to the cessation of U.S. military activities there.
Subsequently, in May 2024, the US withdrew its personnel from a French military base in Chad following a government demand.
The status of US military operations in Chad currently remains in flux, with ongoing negotiations and strategic shifts influencing the future of US military engagement in the country.
3. Djibouti
Camp Lemonnier, located in Djibouti City, is the only permanent US military base in Africa.
Established in 2002, it serves as a strategic hub for U.S. and coalition forces operating in the Horn of Africa.
The base is situated adjacent to Djibouti–Ambouli International Airport and is home to the Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA), which is part of the US Africa Command (USAFRICOM).
The base was originally established as a garrison for the French Foreign Legion.
In 2002, the Djiboutian government leased the facility to the US, along with rights to use the neighboring airport and port facilities.
4. Egypt
While the US does not maintain permanent military bases in Egypt, it has established several facilities and participates in joint military activities within the country.
It includes the Naval Medical Research Unit Three (NAMRU-3) which conducts medical research, focusing on infectious diseases and public health initiatives.
The US also runs Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), established to monitor the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel, the MFO operates in the Sinai Peninsula.
The U.S. contributes personnel to the MFO, which includes a Forward Operating Base North at El Gorah in North Sinai.
Additionally, the US also runs, Exercise Bright Star, a biennial multinational military exercise, co-hosted by the US and Egypt, involves forces from various countries.
The most recent iteration, Bright Star 23, took place from August 27 to September 16, 2023, at Cairo West Air Base.
5. Kenya
The US maintains a significant military presence in Kenya, primarily at Camp Simba and Manda Bay Airfield, both located in Lamu County along the northeastern coast.
Camp Simba serves as a Cooperative Security Location (CSL) and is a key hub for U.S. military operations in the region.
It houses over 600 U.S. military personnel, including members of the Air Force, Army, and Marines.
The camp provides base operations and communications support for various mission partners, enabling Special Operations Command Africa missions in Kenya and Somalia.
Manda Bay Airfield is part of a Kenyan Defense Forces military base utilized by U.S. Armed Forces to provide training and counterterrorism support to East African partners.
It also serves as a safe landing zone for logistics, personnel recovery, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms.
The airfield is home to the 475th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron, which offers base operations and communications support for multiple mission partners.
6. Seychelles
The US has operated a military presence in Seychelles since 1963, initially through the Indian Ocean Station (IOS), a U.S. Air Force Satellite Control Network tracking station that operated until 1996.
In 2009, the US established a drone base at Seychelles International Airport on Mahé Island.
This facility hosts General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper drones operated by approximately 100 US military personnel.
In addition to drone operations, the US has engaged in bilateral maritime security efforts with Seychelles.
The US has also provided maritime security assistance to Seychelles, including training and equipment for the Seychelles Coast Guard and military.
7. Somalia
The United States maintains a military presence in Somalia, primarily focused on counterterrorism operations against the extremist group al-Shabaab.
This presence includes both personnel and infrastructure aimed at supporting the Somali National Army (SNA) and enhancing regional security.
Key military installations include the Baledogle Airfield; located approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Mogadishu, Baledogle Airfield is the largest US military base in Somalia.
It serves as a hub for drone operations, intelligence gathering, and training of Somali forces, particularly the Danab Brigade, an elite commando unit.
The airfield has been instrumental in conducting counterinsurgency missions and providing logistical support to Somali military operations.
