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On 1/14/2009 11:08:44 AM Natalie Lampert, Elon University wrote
Editors Note: Natalie Lampert is a sophomore at Elon University, where she is majoring in International Studies with a regional concentration in Africa. She graduated from the International School of Stuttgart, Germany in 2007. I first recall hearing about U.S. Africa Command about a year and a half ago when my mother, then a Colonel in the Army Reserve, switched from doing her reserve duty on Patch Barracks for EUCOM to doing it on Kelley Barracks for AFRICOM. I didnt pay much attention to this change; to be honest, I wasnt really sure what all the "--COM"/commands were. Over the next year or so, however, I began hearing more about this U.S. Africa Command. Some of my mothers friends and colleagues also started doing their work on Kelley, and from time to time I came across articles mentioning AFRICOM in the Stars & Stripes. I started to tune in. From things that I heard and my own assumptions, I started thinking that the Combatant Commands (as I now properly refer to them as) were military initiatives of the Department of Defense that oversaw military activities in various areas of the world. I wasnt too far off; the commands were indeed created by the DoD, and they were military commands that oversaw security operations as well. I further assumed that Africa Command was created in response to the increasing hostilities and struggles in Africa that were more and more frequently making headlines (though less in the U.S. than in other parts of the world). I must admit, however, being acutely aware (particularly as an American living overseas) of the worlds perception of how the U.S. was using our military and influence, I was wary of the ways in which Africa Command would combat problems in Africa. Was AFRICOM comprised solely of military personnel? When and how would AFRICOM "intervene?" Would we build military bases on the continent? How much was AFRICOM concerned with African unity and humanitarian affairs, and how much with the U.S. own interests in the continent? I contemplated these questions not just because I was a U.S. citizen living in a military community near Africa Command HQ, but because I was becoming increasingly interested in and concerned with affairs in Africa myself. Months later, I am getting answers to these questions. As a short-term college intern at Africa Commands Public Affairs Office, I have learned more about Africa Command than I ever thought I would! First and foremost, I have learned that Africa Command is focused less on intervening in Africa and more on helping stop conflicts before they occur, by means of enhancing security and enabling Africans themselves. I have read many times that for the foreseeable future, Africa Command HQ will remain in Stuttgart, despite rumors that it will be moving to Africa. I was pleased to learn about AFRICOMs Partnership Division and its relationship with USAID, as well as how AFRICOM manages contacts with NGOs and other multinational agencies in Africa. Africa Command is very intent on working with and "listening and learning" from its partners who already work in Africa so as to ensure congruency and effectiveness of its own policies. Like other powerful nations, the U.S. does have interests in Africas economic affairs and its own access to natural resources. However, we also have a growing interest in expanding our relationship with and strengthening the capabilities of Africas nations. To me, this means that the U.S., through AFRICOM, will be investing its efforts in supporting humanitarian efforts regarding issues such as HIV/AIDS as well as pursuing a proactive approach in conflict prevention and preparedness. What I once thought was solely a military initiative is truly an innovative approach that combines strengths the U.S. military offers (e.g., linguists, transportation expertise, foreign area officers, etc.) with the more traditional strengths of the State Department, USAID, NGOs, and other civilian agencies. Africa is a continent that has been largely ignored for decades, and as home to over 922 million people and plagued by a multitude of problems, cannot continue to be. The U.S., along with its Africa Command, fully grasps this. The other day, a language specialist of the Command showed me a "Cultural Awareness" PowerPoint briefing hes been working on. It was fascinating, full of information about Africas history, cultural norms, and personality characteristics of many of its people. During my short time working in the PAO so far, this was some of the most interesting knowledge I have gained. It also showed me how Africa Command really is committed to understanding and relating to Africans on a personal and cultural level -- all levels of communication and relations are important as Africa Command works to help Africans help themselves through offering stabilization and security.
On 1/24/2009 5:20:59 PM Jim Dolbow in Alexandria, VA wrote I was wondering if I could get a copy of the Cultural Awareness Powerpoint. I am sure it is quite fascinating and could learn alot about it. Thanks
On 1/14/2009 4:49:14 PM Maha in Stuttgart, Germany wrote Thank you for the comment Major. I am an American Civilian from African descent too. I agree and second your opinion. All involved should school themselves and be prepared to meet any challenges. As a nation and a workforce, we all can learn and benefit from our diversity, backgrounds and experiences Again, good luck
On 1/14/2009 4:04:15 PM CH MAJ Ike Eweama in Ft Jackson SC Blogger wrote Very well written. As an American Soldier of African descent, I must agree with you. I must agree with you by reiterating that the success of this command must hinge on the command encouraging the Soldiers and civilians to sharpen their skills in cultural awareness. Many of the tribal traditions in Africa have zero tolerance for disrespect to long held traditions. Ignorance is not always excused. It is therefore good for everyone involved to school themselves in the traditional norms and ways. Thanks
On 1/14/2009 3:04:42 AM Maha in Stuttgart, Germany wrote Great article. You really touched the key point, Cultural Awareness. It's our key to success in AFRICA. Good luck
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