GABORONE, Botswana — U.S. Africa Command, in partnership with the Botswana Defence Force, officially commenced Exercise Southern Accord 2026 in Gaborone, Botswana. The biennial exercise, running Aug. 10-15, 2026, brings together U.S. and Botswana military personnel to enhance regional security, foster mutual readiness, and increase the operational independence of African partner nations.
This year’s iteration features Soldiers and Airmen from the North Carolina National Guard training side-by-side with their BDF counterparts, leveraging a long-standing state partnership. Exercise activities in this iteration of Southern Accord include defensive cyber operations, space operations, military intelligence, the Joint Planning Process, a staff exercise, a rehearsal of concept drill and a medical civil action program.
"The security challenges we face today do not respect borders, and no single nation can meet them alone. Exercise Southern Accord 2026 is a vital opportunity to train alongside our Botswana Defence Force partners, sharpening our collective readiness and mutual capability,” said U.S. Air Force General Dagvin Anderson, commander, U.S. Africa Command. “By working together, we don't just build interoperability; we build the trust needed to support regional stability and advance African-led security solutions."
USAFRICOM has conducted Southern Accord in Southern Africa since 2010, with the last iteration occurring in Botswana in 2024. SA26 demonstrates the U.S.’s long-term commitment to collaboration with Botswana, emphasizing shared values and mutual respect. Through SA26, U.S, Joint Forces and the BDF work together to increase readiness and interoperability, enhance the ability to respond to crises, and promote regional security, stability and prosperity.
USAFRICOM is one of seven U.S. geographic combatant commands, responsible for military engagement across 53 African nations. The command defends the homeland by enabling willing and able African military partners to address shared security threats; leads joint training events to maintain response readiness across the continent; and supports U.S. government efforts in Africa to advance U.S. national interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.
For media inquiries, imagery, or interview requests regarding Exercise Southern Accord 2026, please contact the USAFRICOM Public Affairs Office at africom-pao@mail.mil.