Africa Center Commentary & Analysis

Through high-level relationships and a track record of well-respected analysis, the Africa Center speaks directly to the stakeholders who matter, shaping policy on the foremost issues of this dynamic continent.

AfricaSource

Jun 12, 2026

Somalia is the dark horse in US defense and economic strategy

By Maureen Farrell, Rose Keravuori

US policymakers have long viewed Somalia primarily through a counterterrorism lens. But as major maritime supply routes come under strain, its position along key sea lanes is reshaping its geopolitical relevance—and external actors like Turkey are already moving to capitalize.

Africa Security & Defense

Podcast

Jun 12, 2026

Andrew Giuliani on the White House’s World Cup security playbook

By the Atlantic Council

The FIFA World Cup kicks off this week across the US, Mexico, and Canada, bringing with it millions of fans, dozens of teams, and what officials describe as a security challenge unlike any sporting event the United States has hosted before.

AfricaSource

Jun 1, 2026

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was an economic success. Here’s how other tournaments can replicate it.

By Collin Creveling

Africa needs a united committee focused on opportunities for sponsorship and investment across multiple sporting events and tournaments.

Africa Civil Society

AfricaSource

May 29, 2026

The race for Madagascar has already started

By Maureen Farrell, Rose Keravuori

Often overlooked by Western policymakers, Madagascar holds major critical mineral reserves and sits astride key maritime routes. As Russia deepens ties, the United States can’t afford to cede strategic ground.

Africa Critical Minerals

AfricaSource

May 22, 2026

Ethiopia and Eritrea are on the brink of war again

By François Christophe

There is a real risk that the current war of words spirals out of control.

Africa East Africa

AfricaSource

May 21, 2026

For a sustained ceasefire or truce in Sudan, remember: Trust, but verify

By Ernst Jan Hogendoorn

Negotiators should insist any ceasefire or truce agreement allows for a dedicated, on-the-ground monitoring mechanism.

Conflict Human Rights

AfricaSource

May 1, 2026

What can save Mali from collapse?

By Hussein Ba and Rama Yade

The security situation in Mali is becoming critical in the wake of a large-scale, coordinated series of attacks across multiple cities on April 25.

Extremism North & West Africa

AfricaSource

Apr 7, 2026

How a deeper US-Burundi partnership could unlock mineral and security gains

By Maureen Farrell, Rose Keravuori

Fraught with fragility yet rich in critical minerals and peacekeeping expertise, Burundi offers the United States a chance to diversify supply chains and strengthen regional security.

Critical Minerals East Africa

AfricaSource

Apr 6, 2026

Why African cybersecurity requires a continental approach

By Yasmine Abdillahi

Half a billion Africans are online, yet cyber defenses lag. Cross-border crackdowns like Operation Serengeti help, but lasting security needs regulations, skilled professionals, and shared responsibility.

Africa Cybersecurity

AfricaSource

Feb 24, 2026

In Guinea, the US has a rare opportunity to gain an edge over China

By Rose Keravuori, Maureen Farrell

Guinea’s democratic transition and mineral riches put it center stage in US-China competition. The United States now has a rare chance to align investment, security, and governance to secure strategic influence in West Africa.

Critical Minerals North & West Africa