US Africa Command enhances US-Zambia security cooperation

The US Africa Command is to enhance its security partnership with Zambia by opening an Office of Security Cooperation at the US Embassy in Zambia.

Brigadier General Peter Bailey, deputy director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programmes, made the announcement in Zambia during a meeting with President Hakainde Hichilema at the end of April.

Building on the foundation of US-Zambia shared security interests, the new Office of Security Cooperation is expected to enhance military-to-military relations and expand areas of cooperation in force management, modernisation and professional military education for the Zambian security forces.

Bailey commended President Hichilema and his New Dawn Administration for its steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability. He stated that the US government looks forward to building on its strong bilateral ties with Zambia to enhance security cooperation. Furthermore, Bailey also praised the Zambian Defence Force for its professionalism and contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

During his visit, Bailey also met with the Zambian Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma, and represented US Africa Command at the official opening ceremony for the start of pre-deployment training for the eighth Zambia Battalion.

Since 2014, the US government has invested over 136 million kwacha ($8 million) in assistance for multiple iterations of pre-deployment training for Zambian Battalions deployed to the United Nations Multidimensional Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic.

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