DRC - U.S. Africa Command Explores Security Cooperation with FARDC

Kinshasa, January 23, 2026 - U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) visited the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on January 22 to explore opportunities for enhanced security cooperation, reflecting a growing strategic rapprochement between Kinshasa and Washington. Colonel Michael Gacheru, head of the AFRICOM delegation, praised the FARDC’s willingness to collaborate, stating, “This visit demonstrates our unwavering support for the FARDC and the DRC government,” and underscoring efforts to promote peace through strengthened military cooperation. The discussions also included Congolese Generals Jules Banza Mwilambwe and Marcel Lukwikila. The visit coincides with recent peace agreements between the DRC and Rwanda and bilateral economic accords with the United States. As part of this evolving framework, a memorandum of understanding on defense and security was signed to deepen cooperation, particularly in training, equipping forces, and protecting critical infrastructure. To date, the U.S. Embassy has supported professional training programs for the FARDC, as well as initiatives to train and equip police officers and construct police stations. Officials note that a similar military cooperation protocol was signed in 2020, though its implementation had been limited, signaling that current efforts aim to build on and expand past agreements.

Faits rapportés

Kinshasa, January 23, 2026 - U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) visited the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on January 22 to explore opportunities for enhanced security cooperation, reflecting a growing strategic rapprochement between Kinshasa and Washington. Colonel Michael Gacheru, head of the AFRICOM delegation, praised the FARDC’s willingness to collaborate, stating, “This visit demonstrates our unwavering support for the FARDC and the DRC government,” and underscoring efforts to promote peace through strengthened military cooperation. The discussions also included Congolese Generals Jules Banza Mwilambwe and Marcel Lukwikila. The visit coincides with recent peace agreements between the DRC and Rwanda and bilateral economic accords with the United States. As part of this evolving framework, a memorandum of understanding on defense and security was signed to deepen cooperation, particularly in training, equipping forces, and protecting critical infrastructure. To date, the U.S. Embassy has supported professional training programs for the FARDC, as well as initiatives to train and equip police officers and construct police stations. Officials note that a similar military cooperation protocol was signed in 2020, though its implementation had been limited, signaling that current efforts aim to build on and expand past agreements.