African Air Force Chiefs Meet in Zambia to Address Humanitarian Challenges

Air force commanders from 40 African nations convened in Lusaka, Zambia, for the 14th Annual African Air Chiefs (AAAC) symposium, focusing on cooperation in humanitarian aid and disaster relief, Anadolu Agency reported.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that disaster risks cross borders and ideologies. He highlighted the severe impacts of climate change in Zambia, including droughts that have devastated farmland and floods displacing communities.

In a speech delivered by Acting Defence Minister Douglas Syakalima, Hichilema urged member states to work together to provide assistance to those in need, regardless of their location. The symposium, themed “Strategic Collaboration and Operational Excellence: Enhancing the Effectiveness of Association Air Forces,” aims to enhance the operational capabilities of African air forces.

U.S. Air Forces in Europe Commander James Hecker noted that the forum would provide an opportunity to share American military air expertise in responding to natural disasters, such as wildfires. The weeklong event seeks to strengthen regional cooperation in addressing humanitarian challenges.