Over 40 Nations Unite in Rome to Tackle Rising Security Threats
More than 40 nations and approximately 300 senior military leaders convened in Rome for the 14th African Land Forces Summit (ALFS 26), which ran from 22 to 24 March 2026, focusing on strengthening cooperation to address evolving security challenges.
The annual forum, organised by the United States Army Southern European Task Force, Africa, brings together African Land Force Commanders, the United States Army, partner-nation military leaders, as well as representatives from academia, government and industry. Since its inception, the summit has rotated across several countries, with Zambia hosting the event in 2024.
The Zambian delegation was led by Zambia Army Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff, Luswepo Sinyinza, who joined fellow commanders in high-level discussions aimed at enhancing regional and global security cooperation.
Speaking during the official opening, SETAF-AF Commanding General Christopher Donahue highlighted the changing nature of modern warfare, noting the increasing role of drones, cyber operations and information campaigns. He stressed that such developments make international cooperation essential for collective security.
Gen Donahue further warned that the Mediterranean region continues to face rising instability driven by conflict, transnational threats and terrorism, emphasising the need for stable and reliable partnerships to respond effectively.
In his welcoming remarks, Italian Army Chief of Staff Carmine Masiello underscored the importance of collective security, stating that ongoing global conflicts require coordinated international responses.
Held under the theme “Empowering shared security through intelligence, innovation, and industry”, the summit provided a platform for defence leaders, industry experts and academic thought leaders to exchange ideas and explore strategies for strengthening regional stability.
Over the course of the summit, Maj Gen Sinyinza and other commanders engaged in discussions on emerging security trends, with particular attention given to innovation and the integration of new technologies into modern land forces. A key feature of the forum was engagement with capital investors, who joined defence and industry leaders in examining emerging solutions, including dual-use technologies with both civilian and military applications.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Commander and Director of the Security Cooperation Directorate at SETAF-AF, John W. Brennan, said the summit seeks to empower African nations to take greater ownership of their security, thereby promoting long-term independence and reducing reliance on external support.
Lt Gen Brennan noted that Africa’s strategic position and critical trade routes make it vital to global economic stability, adding that the rapidly evolving nature of warfare, driven by artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, requires increased innovation and collaboration.
He further emphasised the importance of professionalising land forces, strengthening multi-domain capabilities, promoting defence economics and sustainability, and encouraging international investment in Africa’s security sector. Addressing transnational threats such as terrorism and piracy also remains a key priority, he added.
On the margins of the summit, Maj Gen Sinyinza held strategic engagements with key stakeholders aimed at deepening partnerships and enhancing collaboration in support of shared security objectives.
