African air chiefs convene in Tunis to advance operational integration and cooperative security

Tunis, Tunisia — Air chiefs from more than 30 African nations gathered in the Tunisian capital May 13–15 for the 2026 African Air Chiefs Symposium, a three-day meeting with senior leaders from U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa focused on turning prior commitments into concrete initiatives.

Co-chaired by Nigeria, this year’s symposium centers on “Operationalizing AAAF: An Era of Shared Responsibility,” with delegates working to finalize a new seven-year strategic plan, pursue bilateral and multilateral talks to strengthen regional security and interoperability, and vote on national commitments toward a major live-fly exercise planned for 2027.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster response featured prominently among shared security challenges discussed in working groups. “Our working groups remain central to this effort, advancing initiatives that strengthen both capability and cohesion across our forces,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Kristin Cullinan, Association of African Air Forces secretary general.

Organizers and participants emphasized a continued shift toward African-led priorities and decision-making as the Association of African Air Forces evolves from a forum for dialogue into a vehicle for joint action. The association is a voluntary, non-political body aimed at deepening friendship, cooperation and mutual support among member air forces to advance safety, peace and security across the continent.