Military chiefs from across Africa convened in Luanda, Angola, from June 30 to July 2, for the 2026 African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD). The primary focus of the discussions was to address growing threats from violent extremist groups, transnational crime, and drug trafficking, which are exploiting porous borders and necessitating closer collaboration.

• AFRICOM Commander Gen. Dagvin Anderson highlighted that terrorist networks and drug syndicates exploit porous borders, underscoring the critical need for African military cooperation.
• The conference is co-hosted by the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Angolan Armed Forces.
• Discussions include securing the global commons, countering disinformation, and harnessing innovation and economic development to enhance regional stability.