Addis Ababa, July 27, 2026 (FMC) — The 2026 African Communications and Logistics Symposium (ALCS), co-hosted by Ethiopia and the United States, has commenced today in Addis Ababa, bringing together senior military officials, defense experts, industry partners, and delegates from across Africa.
The opening ceremony of the continental forum is being attended by Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) Commander General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin J. Massinga, and representatives from participating countries and various industries.
The symposium, held from July 27 to 31 in Addis Ababa, aims to strengthen cooperation, exchange experiences, and explore innovative solutions in logistics and communications, which are considered critical components of operational readiness and collective security.
The event has brought together delegations from more than 40 African countries and representatives of international industry partners to discuss ways of enhancing logistics systems, secure communications, interoperability, and sustainable capacity building.
Ethiopia’s selection to host the symposium reflects its contributions to regional peace and security, its growing capacity to host major international forums, and Addis Ababa’s role as a diplomatic hub of Africa.
The forum also highlights the growing cooperation between Ethiopia and the United States in areas of diplomacy, security, and defense partnership.
Participants are expected to engage in discussions on strengthening supply chains, improving maintenance and support systems, advancing communication capabilities, and developing practical approaches to address evolving security challenges across the continent.