The top commander of American forces in Africa has ordered a review of security on all bases in Africa following an attack on a Kenyan military base that left three Americans dead.
Gen Stephen Townsend is quoted as telling journalists on Thursday: “We were not as prepared there at Manda Bay as we needed to be”.
Islamist militant group al-Shabab attacked Camp Simba on Manda Island, in the popular coastal region of Lamu, and destroyed two aircraft, two US helicopters and multiple vehicles at the airstrip.
Al-Shabab said it “successfully stormed the heavily fortified military base” during the attack earlier this month.
The base is used by Kenyan and US forces.
Gen Townsend told the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday that they were “keeping an eye on al-Shabab every day” and looking “for ways to reduce their capacity wherever we can”.
He warned against a reduction in the number of troops deployed to Africa.
“In the past maybe we’ve been able to pay less attention to Africa and it be okay for America, I don’t believe that’s the case for the future,” he told the senators.
more recommended stories
DR Congo election chief sworn in after disputed nominationDemocratic Republic of Congo’s constitutional court.
-
Guinea coup leader picks Mandela prize winner as foreign minister
Conakry, Guinea – Guinea’s military leader.
-
Moderna to sell Africa with up to 110 million COVID doses
NAIROBI, Kenya — Moderna says it.
-
Ministers, party leaders detained in apparent coup in Sudan: Sources
oldiers arrested most of the members.
-
Uganda: Islamic State claims responsibility for bomb attack
Islamic state claimed responsibility for a.
-
Suspected bomb attack in Kampala Uganda after terror warnings
Police said a “serious blast” occurred.
-
South Africa: Nigerian man sentenced to 45 years for trafficking women, forcing them into sex work
A Nigerian man Alaba Makonjuola Asabi,.
-
Jacob Zuma lays criminal charge against state prosecutor in corruption trial
Former South African president Jacob Zuma.
