VICENZA, Italy – Africa boasts the second largest land mass and population among continents as well as the youngest median age in the world at under 19 years on average. With seven coups over the last three years, the battle for power over African people has made international headlines. Among the more positive groups vying for legitimacy and prominence: women.
Recent joint military efforts highlight Africa’s commitment to empowering females, and the pursuit of peace and security throughout Africa is not only a strategic U.S. objective, but one shared by numerous partner nations.
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) works with military leadership, and specifically women in leadership positions, throughout the continent of Africa to address conflict and instability. This is part of an ongoing peacebuilding effort under the umbrella of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiative.