Rabat Hosts Unprecedented Conference Bringing Together Top U.S. and African NCOs to Strengthen Security and Cooperation

ALDAR/

The Moroccan capital, Rabat, hosted the 7th edition of the African Senior Enlisted Leaders Conference, bringing together more than 130 military leaders from the United States and 30 African countries. Held this year under the theme “Resilience, Adaptability, and Transformation,” the event serves as a strategic opportunity to deepen military cooperation, exchange field experiences, and build strong networks among non-commissioned officers (NCOs) across the continent.

This conference is organized in partnership between the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, as part of the strong defense relations between Rabat and Washington. These ties are reflected in joint exercises and longstanding security initiatives, most notably the “African Lion” maneuvers, one of the largest military exercises on the continent.

The conference aims to empower NCOs—considered the backbone of any professional army—by enabling them to share perspectives on current security challenges. These include the growing threats across many African regions, especially transnational terrorism, violent extremism, institutional fragility, and internal conflicts. Participants are also discussing ways to enhance military readiness by developing leadership capabilities and adopting new training models focused on rapid response and adaptability.

U.S. military officials stated that partnerships with African nations—particularly with Morocco—are cornerstone efforts for achieving regional stability. They emphasized that empowering NCOs and equipping them with modern tools for planning and execution is essential to building more professional and autonomous armed forces.

The Moroccan side, in its interventions, highlighted the importance of the African dimension in the Kingdom’s strategic vision and underscored the growing role of the Royal Armed Forces in supporting regional security. This includes experience-sharing, participation in peacekeeping missions, and hosting international training events.

Morocco’s selection as the host country for this conference is further evidence of its regional and international standing as a trusted actor in security affairs and a committed partner in advancing shared goals of stability and development in Africa.

The conference is expected to produce actionable recommendations that will enhance cooperation between African and U.S. militaries—particularly in areas of training, operational readiness, and addressing the complex challenges facing continental security in the coming years.