VICENZA, Italy — U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Andrew Rohling, commander of the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, traveled to Zambia and Tanzania Nov. 3-8 to meet with senior defense officials and demonstrate U.S. commitment to African partners.
During the visit, Rohling met with Zambian Minister of Defense, the Honorable Ambrose Lufuma, and other senior military leaders. Rohling and Lufuma discussed opportunities to strengthen security cooperation between the United States and Zambia.
Rohling emphasized the importance of increased military-to-military engagement between U.S. and African partner nations. The leaders identified several opportunities: conducting military exercises and security cooperation activities, supporting operations, and providing training in force management, modernization, and professional military education.
“We continue to see Zambia’s Defense Force make important contributions to regional peace and security,” said Rohling. “Zambian forces are highly regarded, professional, and respecters of the rule of law and human rights. They set a powerful example for others and the United States has been a proud partner in their training.”
Rohling later visited with Zambia’s Kenneth Kaunda Peace Mission Training Center. At the training center, Rohling met with Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Zyeele, Zambia army chief of staff.
In Tanzania, Rohling met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Honorable Minister Liberata Mulamula, and U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania the Honorable Mr. Donald Wright at the U.S. Marine Corps Ball in Dar es Salaam Nov. 6. Rohling was the guest speaker at the black-tie event.
“I know everyone in attendance recognizes the importance of Tanzania’s contributions to security and stability in the region and across Africa,” Rohling stated. “We appreciate Tanzania’s decades-long commitment to United Nations peacekeeping operations and the United States is a proud partner in providing training and support.”
Rohling also met with Maj. Gen. Anthony Sibuti, Tanzania People’s Defence Forces Land force commander. The two leaders discussed upcoming training opportunities and Sibuti’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., for the Association of the U.S. Army Annual Meeting.
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa is committed to a mutually beneficial partnership with the countries in Africa in order to enhance efforts and contributions to regional security and stability.
