Foreign military involvement in Africa
Foreign militaries, especially those from the US and France, have invested enormous resources in battling Islamist militancy in Africa, but also to entrench and expand their influence. But even though insecurity and lack of development have given militants a foothold in many parts of Africa, it is the corruption and indifference of local elites that have allowed militant groups to thrive.
What you will learn:
- The US and France use their significant military footprint in Africa to maintain friendly regimes and influence, but do so inconsistently.
- Russia looks to take advantage of unstable regimes or governments that have fallen out with Western partners.
- Many countries – including India and China – maintain a presence in Africa but with a focus elsewhere, notably the Gulf or the Indian Ocean.
Tags:
Related Services

Post
US Rolls Up Welcome Mat for International Travel
Research Briefing Foreign military involvement in Africa Trump tariffs set to raise effective rate above 1930s levels.
Find Out More
Post
Initial takeaways from Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ announcement
In two or three years' time, US imports could fall by around 15% due to discounted reciprocal tariff hikes.
Find Out More