US military may dampen human rights focus in Africa

Significance

The attack comes amid fears over increasing securitisation of the US government's engagements and policy towards Africa, just as AFRICOM reaches the tenth anniversary of its establishment. Security assistance to African countries has increased dramatically as part of the global war on terror.

Impacts

• The Trump administration's prioritisation of security assistance will increase African public scepticism of US regional engagement.
• Drone strikes and special operation forces will be AFRICOM’s preferred means of direct military operations.
• A new controversy akin to the 2012 coup in Mali which was led by a US-trained officer could undermine US military standing on the continent.