Programs

The Atlantic Council’s Africa Center promotes dynamic geopolitical partnerships with African states and helps redirect US and European policy priorities toward strengthening security and bolstering economic growth and prosperity on the continent.

Content

MENASource

Jul 31, 2025

Gateways to the Red Sea: The case for Israel–Somaliland normalization

By Amit Yarom

Expanding the Abraham Accords to Somaliland could quietly anchor a more stable and cooperative Red Sea region.

East Africa Israel

MENASource

Jul 31, 2025

Djibouti is the next arena for US-China competition in the Red Sea

By Emily Milliken

Washington could upgrade its Djibouti relationship and secure its foothold along some of the world’s most important waterways.

Africa China

AfricaSource

Jul 23, 2025

The Sahel is pivoting toward Turkey. Here’s what that means for Washington.

By Jordanna Yochai

Washington will need to consider partnering with Turkey when it advances US interests—but it must approach any cooperation with clear eyes.

Defense Technologies Sahel

AfricaSource

Jul 21, 2025

At Trump’s recent summit, the US talked trade. But West Africa wants security first.

By Rose Keravuori

During a mini summit with five West African leaders, the Donald Trump administration prioritized “trade not aid,” strategic minerals, and deportation agreements. But security in the Sahel—now the world’s epicenter of terrorism—remained a blind spot.

Economy & Business North & West Africa

Issue Brief

Jul 21, 2025

Atlantic piracy, current threats, and maritime governance in the Gulf of Guinea

By Maisie Pigeon

A drop in attacks in the Gulf of Guinea does not necessarily mean piracy has been resolved. Pirates have adapted their tactics, and the potential for resurgence remains high; this issue remains a critical security and development concern. It is not just a regional priority—it is an international imperative.

Africa Economy & Business

AfricaSource

Jul 16, 2025

MMA’s arrival in Africa could transform opportunity for the continent’s youth

By Anthony Manga

Africa is no longer just a source of talent but increasingly a hub for global sports investment and innovation.

Africa Economy & Business

MENASource

Jul 16, 2025

How Mauritania-Israel normalization may boost US posture in the Sahel

By Sarah Zaaimi

If Mauritania is nearing a deal with Israel, this could be the beginning of a wider re-engagement with Sahel countries.

Israel Middle East

New Atlanticist

Jul 11, 2025

Guinea-Bissau’s president on his meeting with Trump, relations with Russia and China, and whether he will accept US deportees

By Katherine Golden

Speaking at the Atlantic Council, Umaro Sissoco Embaló said that he appreciated how Trump “knows what he wants”—and has a “win-win partnership” in mind.

Africa Politics & Diplomacy

Report

Jul 10, 2025

Exploring the global digital ID landscape

By Coley Felt, Will LaRivee

The worldwide adoption of digital identity systems varies significantly across regions and implementation approaches.

Africa Digital Policy

Podcast

Jul 8, 2025

‘Death is our business’

By Alia Brahimi

In Season 2, Episode 12 of the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi is joined by the journalist John Lechner to discuss his new book, Death is Our Business: Russian Mercenaries and the New Era of Private Warfare.

Africa Russia

Experts

Events