12 Jun Morocco positioned as a regional security leader, AFRICOM chief says

General Michael Langley, the commander of AFRICOM, recently lauded Morocco as a pivotal regional leader that plays a crucial role in exporting security and economic development across Africa.

During a Senate hearing, the four-star General highlighted Morocco’s commitment to military education, stating that the North African Kingdom trains over 1,200 African partners each year.

The training programs encompass a wide range of military education, from basic training to advanced War College courses, and cover all branches of the military.

Additionally, the training includes specialised areas such as medical, intelligence, airborne, and special operations disciplines.

General Langley pointed out that Moroccan trainers actively travel to neighbouring countries to impart a variety of essential skills.

This role in security exportation is significantly supported by Morocco’s contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations, with more than 1,700 Moroccan troops deployed annually to missions in the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Looking ahead, September 2025 will mark the opening of a state-of-the-art Peacekeeping Centre of Excellence in Morocco.

This centre will have the capacity to train thousands in crucial skills and will also serve as a venue for strategic defence engagements, diplomatic summits, and senior leader discussions on peacekeeping. Co-funded by the United States, the centre aims to benefit both Moroccan and other African military personnel.

Moreover, General Langley shared the significance of the U.S.-led African Lion exercise, which is hosted annually in Morocco and involves participation from various African and European nations, alongside NATO forces.

This largest military exercise in Africa fosters multinational cooperation and enhances readiness across all military domains.

“The African continent is a vast landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities for the United States and our competitors,” General Langley said.