Chair Mccollum Leads Classified Hearing On U.s. Africa Command

Statement

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Chair of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, today led a classified hearing with General Stephen. J. Townsend, Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).

U.S. Africa Command, with partners, counters transnational threats and malign actors, strengthens security forces, and responds to crises in order to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity. Wednesday's hearing focused on the posture of AFRICOM as the Fiscal Year 2023 appropriations process is underway.

Chair McCollum released the following statement:
"I was pleased to hear from General Townsend on the current posture of AFRICOM," Chair McCollum said. "As the Defense Subcommittee looks ahead toward directing resources within the FY 2023 Defense Appropriations bill, the insights from Gen. Townsend are critical -- especially as it relates to China's deepened reach in the region, the expansion of Russian arms sales, the potential for further humanitarian crises on the African continent due to food shortages, and our efforts with the African Union to resolve the conflict in Ethiopia. After hearing Gen. Townsend's testimony, it is clear the U.S. must be more engaged as a whole of government on the African content, not less."

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