United States Africa Command, also known as Africom, is the new command unit of the Department of Defense responsible for U.S. military operations in Africa. Africom's headquarters are in Germany.

Africom intended to improve America's image in Africa and prevent terrorism by focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief alongside military training and liaison activities. These goals were cut back when aid groups refused to work alongside troops.

Many African nations oppose having a permanent military installation in their region, saying it smacks of colonialism. Libya, Nigeria and South Africa fear that a command center of Africom in Africa will lead to an unwanted military influence or draw them into the war on terror.