Africa Needs Resilient Logistics, Secure Communications to Address Emerging Challenges: Defense Minister

Addis Ababa, July 27, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed said resilient logistics systems and secure, interoperable communications are essential strategic enablers for Africa to effectively respond to growing security and humanitarian challenges.

The Minister made the remarks while opening the 2026 African Communications and Logistics Symposium (ALCS), co-hosted by Ethiopia and the United States in Addis Ababa.

Aisha said the increasing complexity of security challenges facing the continent has made stronger logistics and communications capabilities more important than ever, as they underpin operational readiness, coordination, and the ability to respond swiftly during times of need.

She noted that the symposium provides more than a platform for technical discussions, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange best practices, enhance interoperability, and build capable and future-ready institutions across Africa.

The Minister said Ethiopia is honored to host the continental forum, noting that the country’s selection reflects its contributions to regional peace and stability, development achievements, and Addis Ababa’s growing capacity to host major international conferences.

She said the hosting of ALCS demonstrates the growing mutual trust and partnership between Ethiopia and the United States, particularly in diplomacy and military cooperation, which she described as having reached a strategic level.

Aisha also expressed appreciation to the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) and U.S. partners for their joint efforts in organizing the symposium, saying their coordination and shared commitment made the event possible.

She called on participants to look beyond current challenges and work together to shape the strategic capabilities Africa will need in the future through collaboration and innovation.

The 2026 African Communications and Logistics Symposium has brought together senior military officials, defense experts, and industry partners from more than 40 African countries to discuss ways of strengthening logistics systems, communications capabilities, and collective security cooperation.