A relatively small force of a few thousand American troops was created in 2007 to serve as the eyes and ears of America in Africa. Its role is to advance US policies through military assistance, education and training. The Africa Command or AFRICOM is not a sign that Africa has jumped to the front-page of US geostrategic interests, but it is recognition that US engagement in Africa must be more systematic, enduring, and consistent.
THE United States Africa Command attracts little attention in Washington, but it remains a contentious subject in Africa and Europe.
The future of the command will serve as an indicator of how the US will deal with African nations in the futur...