**United States Africa Command (AFRICOM)** is a unified combatant command of the U.S. Department of Defense, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, overseeing military operations, exercises, and security cooperation across Africa (excluding Egypt) and surrounding island nations like Madagascar and Seychelles.[1][7][5] Established to streamline U.S. security efforts previously split among European, Central, and Pacific Commands, AFRICOM began initial operations on October 1, 2007, and achieved full operational status on October 1, 2008, incorporating entities like the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa.[1][2][7] General William E. Ward became its first commander in 2007, following briefings to African leaders.[1] Unlike traditional commands, AFRICOM uniquely integrates military and civilian functions, with a deputy from the State Department, drawing staff from USAID, Treasury, and other agencies to blend defense with diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and development.[2][6][3] Its core mission counters transnational threats—like al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, and Sahel extremists—while building African partners' capacities for stability, crisis response, and professional militaries that uphold human rights and civilian control.[4][3][1] Key priorities include neutralizing militants in Somalia, degrading groups in Libya and the Sahel, containing Boko Haram, and interdicting Gulf of Guinea illicit activities.[1] AFRICOM conducts hundreds of engagements yearly, from exercises to humanitarian assistance, guided by U.S. National Security Strategy.[4][6] Achievements encompass enhanced partnerships with 53-54 African nations and the African Union, fostering security forces as "agents of stability" and reducing U.S. threats through local empowerment.[3][9][5] Its 2012 operating budget hit $276 million, underscoring sustained investment.[1] Currently, AFRICOM remains pivotal amid rising extremism and instability