Language and Messaging Guide for United States Africa Command (AFRICOM)

Introduction

This comprehensive guide is designed to enhance communication with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). By delineating how to accurately reference the command, employ preferred terminology, and adjust our communication approach, this document aims to align with the distinctive culture, strategic aims of AFRICOM, and its contributions to regional stability, national security, and global partnerships.

Command Overview

The United States Africa Command, established in 2007 and headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, is one of the United States’ ten unified combatant commands. AFRICOM’s area of responsibility encompasses all of Africa, excluding Egypt, covering an extensive region that faces diverse challenges ranging from violent extremism to piracy. Its mission focuses on defending the U.S. and its interests through strengthening the defense capabilities of African states and regional organizations, promoting regional security and stability, and enhancing partnerships and alliances. AFRICOM operates with a comprehensive approach that integrates military, diplomatic, and development efforts, reflecting a commitment to cooperating closely with both African countries and international partners.

Communication Style

• Tone: Formal and Informal – Use a formal tone for official documents, reports, and formal presentations. An informal tone may be used for social media interactions, casual internal communications, and outreach programs.
• Perspective: Mixed (First-person and Third-person) – Utilize third-person when discussing AFRICOM’s operations and achievements in official reports and formal settings. First-person perspective is suitable for speeches, personal narratives, and social media posts by AFRICOM representatives.
• Language Precision: Clarity, conciseness, and precision are paramount in all forms of communication. Ensure terminology is understood by a broad audience, avoiding acronyms and military jargon when addressing the public or international partners.
• Visual Representation: Use imagery and visuals that accurately reflect AFRICOM’s diverse operations across Africa, including partner nation engagements, training exercises, and community relations efforts. Avoid visuals that could be perceived as culturally insensitive or reinforcing stereotypes.

Terminology and Phrases

1. Partner Nations: Refers to African countries that collaborate with AFRICOM on various security and development initiatives. Usage Example: “AFRICOM works closely with partner nations to enhance regional security.”

2. Capacity Building: The process of providing support to partner nations to improve their defense and security abilities. Usage Example: “Capacity building initiatives have significantly improved the operational capabilities of partner nation forces.”

3. Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs): Groups that use violence to achieve radical ideological, religious, or political goals. Usage Example: “AFRICOM’s operations aim to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of VEOs in the region.”

4. Security Cooperation: Efforts made to work together with allies and partner nations to strengthen relationships and achieve common security goals. Usage Example: “Security cooperation is key to AFRICOM’s strategy for a stable and secure Africa.”

5. Regional Stability: The state of peaceful relations and the absence of conflict within a region. Usage Example: “AFRICOM contributes to regional stability through comprehensive military engagement and humanitarian aid.”

Snippets from Official Documents

1. Strategic Reports: “AFRICOM’s strategic reports emphasize the importance of partnership and cooperation with African nations and international allies to address shared security challenges and promote peace and stability.”

2. Operational Successes: “Reports highlight AFRICOM’s successes in joint operations with African militaries, leading to significant advancements in counterterrorism efforts and capacity building across the continent.”

Leadership Language

AFRICOM’s leadership, including Commander Gen. Michael E. Langley, frequently emphasizes themes like partnership, respect for sovereignty, shared security interests, and commitment to peace and stability in their public addresses. They advocate for an approach that respects the autonomy and aspirations of African nations while offering support to address common challenges.

Guidelines for Communication Adaptation

• When referring to the command: Use the full name, United States Africa Command, in first reference and AFRICOM in subsequent mentions.
• Incorporating preferred terminology: Always opt for language that emphasizes partnership, collaboration, and mutual respect. Highlight AFRICOM’s supportive, rather than directive, role.
• Emulating the command’s tone: Adopt a respectful and formal tone for official communications, with a more relaxed tone for social media and informal engagements.
• Contextual Messaging: Tailor messages to address the specific concerns and interests of diverse audiences, including African partners, international allies, and the general public.
• Engagement Techniques: When engaging with media, focus on AFRICOM’s efforts in partnership building, capacity enhancement, and contributions to regional peace and stability.
• Conflict-Sensitive Communication: Be mindful of the sensitivity surrounding military operations. Focus on AFRICOM’s defensive and supportive roles, ensuring communications respect the sovereignty and dignity of all nations and peoples involved.

Conclusion

Strategic and mindful communication is crucial in advancing AFRICOM’s mission and fostering robust relationships with global partners. This guide serves as a baseline for effective communication, encouraging continuous adaptation and learning to meet evolving challenges and opportunities.

Note: This guide will be updated as AFRICOM’s strategic environment evolves. Stakeholders are encouraged to consult the latest version for current standards and practices.