Publication

This paper explores the changing US perspective on Africa as a strategically important region.The author argues that due to rising global energy demands, ongoing terrorism in the Middle East and North Africa, and negative externalities of China’s activities on the continent, it is gaining prominence on the radar screen of US national security interests. The paper concludes that US Africa Command, in working with NATO and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, can coordinate with the African Union and the UN for joint efforts to stabilize the energy sector as well as to take constructive steps to help African governments move away from the petroleum-state model.