U.S. and 15+ African nations launch Justified Accord 2025 in Kenya, Tanzania & Djibouti to boost regional security and cooperation.
NAIROBI, Kenya – February 11, 2025 — The United States, in collaboration with more than 15 African partner nations, has officially kicked off Justified Accord 2025 (JA25), one of the largest multinational military exercises on the African continent. The operation, led by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), is focused on enhancing regional security, counterterrorism efforts, and crisis response coordination.
Running from February 10 to 21, JA25 is being held across Kenya, Djibouti, and Tanzania, underscoring East Africa’s rising role in global security cooperation.
“JA25 builds trust, interoperability, and readiness among partner forces, ensuring we can collectively respond to threats and humanitarian crises,” said Maj. Gen. Todd Wasmund, Commanding General of SETAF-AF.
The opening ceremony on February 11 at Msata Military Training Base in Tanzania brought together top military and defense officials from across the continent and beyond. The Tanzanian People’s Defence Force (TPDF) took the lead in organizing the event—highlighting Tanzania’s growing profile as a regional security hub.
This gathering reaffirms East Africa’s strategic value to U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) amid growing threats from groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS-affiliates.
Originally launched in 1998 as Exercise Natural Fire, the mission aimed to improve coordination between U.S. and East African militaries. Over time, it has evolved into a large-scale, multinational operation with joint field missions, humanitarian response drills, and strategic planning sessions.
Key Features of JA25: Strengthening Readiness
This year’s training includes:
A major highlight is the first-ever night air-to-ground integration between Kenya’s Air Force and multinational ground troops.
Strategic Partnerships
The U.S. provides over $100 million in annual support to Kenya, including logistics, training, and defense equipment.
Local Economic Boost
The exercise boosts local economies through infrastructure upgrades, hospitality demand, and logistics contracts.
“JA25 is not just about military drills—it’s about building relationships and knowledge for peace,” said Lt. Col. Roger Cabiness, SETAF-AF spokesperson.
With 1,300+ troops and representatives from over 30 nations, Justified Accord 2025 reflects U.S.-Africa cooperation in response to increasing influence from China and Russia on the continent.
