Special forces across Africa meet in high-level Nairobi forum to counter terrorism and emerging threats

A high-level defence forum bringing together Special Operations Forces commanders from over 40 African states, US Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF), policymakers, industry stakeholders, and related professionals has begun in Nairobi, aiming to foster a united front against evolving security challenges such as cyber threats and violent extremism.

The forum, dubbed Silent Warriors 2025, is organised by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Special Operations Forces Command in conjunction with SOCAF, under the theme “Evolving threats in Africa: SOF and the future of African security.”

It comes at a time when the region is grappling with complex security challenges, including rising violent conflicts, Africa’s growing role as a global hub for terrorist activity, and political instability.

Special Forces sacrifices

Speaking at the opening ceremony, US Embassy Charge d’Affaires Susan Burns highlighted the sacrifices made by Special Forces during operations and called for deeper collaboration to secure the region.

"Across Africa, special operations are the tip of the spear against violent extremist organisations, traffickers and malign actors exploiting instability. But as everyone knows, the threat is changing faster than ever, adapting to technology, exploiting the governance space and leveraging information warfare. A safer United States depends on a safer and more stable Africa," she said, urging stronger regional cooperation.

Joint counterterrorism initiatives

Kenya has maintained its partnership with the US through joint counterterrorism initiatives, including the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) at Manda Bay and the expanding role of the Kenya Marines, among other efforts.

"As we talk about counter-drone capability, data fusion, cyber threats, and advanced sensing, let's remember these systems are people—operators who put themselves at risk so others can enjoy peace," Burns added.

Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lt General John Omenda noted that the forum comes as the security landscape continues to evolve—from the Sahel to the Horn of Africa, from the Great Lakes region to the Gulf of Aden—with threats that are interwoven and transnational, underscoring the need for closer collaboration.

"The nexus between violent extremism, terrorism, transnational organised crime, socio-economic vulnerabilities, and emerging technological warfare demands deep collaboration. Our shared values in security matters and a strong interest in a secure world provide a firm foundation for global engagement… When Special Operations Forces across the world collaborate, it becomes a force multiplier, sending a clear message to any adversary that there are no gaps across borders," said Lt Gen Omenda.

Integration of artificial intelligence

The forum will also explore topics such as the integration of artificial intelligence, the expanding role of unmanned systems, and cyber frontiers.

"The country stands firm as a reliable partner in the pursuit of peace and stability. From our contributions to regional missions, counterterrorism operations, and intelligence sharing across Africa and beyond, we remain guided by the belief that security is a shared responsibility," he assured.

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• horn of africa
• Kenya Defence Forces
• Violent extremism
• cybersecurity
• Counterterrorism
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• US Special Operations Command Africa
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• defence technology
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Highlighting the challenging environments in which Special Operations Forces operate, the Vice CDF urged officers to uphold ethics, professionalism, and the rule of law at all times.

"It is precisely in this environment that discipline, integrity, respect for human rights, and adherence to international norms must remain uncompromised," he said.

The commander of US Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF), Major General Claude Tudor, acknowledged Kenya’s pivotal role as a leader and collaborator in regional counterterrorism efforts.

"Kenya's leadership in co-hosting this event underscores its commitment to African-led security solutions. Kenya is not only a trusted partner in countering terrorism across Africa; they are leaders across the continent and continue to help us shoulder the challenges while exporting security globally. We are grateful for your continued collaboration," he said.

The high-level symposium has brought together senior Special Operations commanders, distinguished academics from Africa and beyond, and, for the first time, partners from the defence industry.

"We will get a chance to see some of the latest technology and ideas that we can integrate into our formations. These emerging technologies will help us remain more relevant and more lethal on the battlefield while staying ahead of the threats we face across the continent," Major Gen Tudor added.

The Commander of Kenya Special Operations Forces Command, Brigadier John Kinyua, said the forum will foster trust and synergies for collective interoperability.

"The conversations we will have here are grounded in the shared realities we face daily in our theatres of operations and are focused on the tangible solutions we must develop together," he said.

The three-day symposium, ending on Thursday, will showcase modern warfare, intelligence, and surveillance technologies that enhance operational readiness.