MILITARY representatives from more than 30 African nations will convene in Lusaka, Zambia, starting Tuesday for a significant military law conference. The event, spanning four days, will focus on the crucial role of legal advisers in the deployment of troops, particularly as conflicts continue to threaten stability across the continent.
The African Military Law Forum will be co-hosted by the Zambian Defence Force, US-Africa Command (AFRICOM), US Army Europe and Africa, and the North Carolina National Guard. The forum will bring together military leaders, magistrates, and legal professionals to discuss how legal advisers can guide military operations to ensure adherence to the rule of law during troop deployments.
Retired Colonel Max Maxwell, AFRICOM’s deputy legal counsel, emphasised the importance of legal frameworks in military operations. ‘When militaries deploy outside their borders, especially to remote areas, it’s essential that they adhere to the rule of law,’ Maxwell said. ‘We want soldiers to be held accountable, commanders to have access to legal advice, and armies to act professionally. Ultimately, we aim to create armies that civilians trust and turn to, rather than fear.’
Maxwell highlighted that maintaining professional conduct is key to the success of military missions. ‘An accountable and professional army, supported by legal advisers, is more likely to execute its mission successfully and mitigate potential negative outcomes,’ he added. ‘This standard not only enhances partnerships but also ensures a focus on the rule of law, especially in increasingly complex conflict environments.’
Brigadier General Dan Kuwali from Malawi pointed out that the forum will also address ways to prevent human rights violations during deployments. Malawi has been actively involved in peacekeeping efforts, including deploying soldiers to the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of a Southern African Development Community mission.
‘We are here to build capacity as legal advisers to help our troops avoid violations and ensure accountability where necessary,’ Kuwali explained. ‘Promoting professionalism through compliance with the law is essential for being recognized as a professional force.’
This year marks the seventh African Military Law Forum, coinciding with the United States’ efforts to strengthen military and security partnerships with African countries. The forum also comes at a time when Africa is grappling with increasing instability, particularly in the Sahel region, where jihadi insurgencies have escalated attacks.
Eswatini’s legal counsel, Captain Portia Magongo, underscored the strategic importance of legal advisers in military decision-making. ‘Legal advisers play a crucial role in guiding commanders on deployment decisions,’ Magongo told VOA. ‘Whether it’s political or military policy, legal advisers ensure that decisions are informed and aligned with legal standards.’
As conflicts grow more complex across Africa, the role of legal advisers in military operations is becoming increasingly critical. This forum aims to enhance the professionalism and accountability of African militaries, ensuring that they operate within the bounds of international law while effectively addressing the continent’s security challenges.
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