U.S. Africa Command

His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H., President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces (front-center), Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard, U.S. Embassy Nairobi, U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley, commander U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Air Force Gen. Steven Nordhaus, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, and various African Chiefs of Defense and representatives from 38 countries pose for the official group photo of the 2025 African Chiefs of Defense conference, May 28, 2025. The 2025 African Chiefs of Defense Conference (ACHOD25) brings together Chiefs of Defense from 37 African countries, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, Special Operations Command Africa, U.S. Air Forces Africa, and U.S. Army Africa in Nairobi, Kenya. ACHOD25 provides an opportunity for senior military officials from across Africa to discuss topics such as countering transnational threats, strengthening U.S. and African partnerships, as well as fostering expertise-sharing and alliances. ACHOD25 advances regional stability and collective defense, supporting U.S. national security by promoting cost-effective, African-led solutions that minimize direct U.S. military involvement while enhancing global stability. (U.S. Africa Command photo by Jason Johnston, AFRICOM Public Affairs)