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Photo by: U.S. Africa Command Public Affairs 

(Updated August 25, 2023)

The third Security Implications of Climate Change Symposium, organized by U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) and the U.S. Institute for Peace (USIP) in concert with the Botswana Defence Force, convened in Gaborone June 26 through June 30 to address climate security challenges. The symposium brought together more than 100 military and government representatives from the United States and 33 African partners to identify practical and actionable solutions to climate security threats, along with future opportunities to collaborate on climate risk.

Major General Kenneth P. Ekman, Director of Strategy, Engagement, and Programs for USAFRICOM, emphasized the importance of gathering U.S. and African partners together for this climate-focused event. "The output that we want from this conference are practical solutions that our militaries can implement in partnership with United States Africa Command to help overcome the negative effects of climate change,” Maj. Gen. Ekman said. 

Lt. Gen. Placid Segokgo, Commander of Defense Forces in Botswana, highlighted the significance of climate change around the world, as a security priority that needs urgent attention. "We are living in times when it is evident that climate change is one of the greatest challenges ever to face mankind, and that is no longer a myth but a reality,” he said.

Throughout the symposium, distinguished participants, including high-level delegates, shared their enthusiasm for the event to generate innovative ideas and actionable initiatives where the U.S. and African partners can work together for meaningful outcomes. The Symposium served as a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, enabling participants to collectively develop practical solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change and enhance security across the African continent.