African Lion 2025: Morocco consolidates its role as a strategic hub in Africa

The multinational military exercise African Lion 2025, officially launched from the city of Agadir, marks a new milestone in international military cooperation on the African continent. 

Co-organised by the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) of Morocco and the United States Army, this event represents not only a major technical and logistical deployment, but also a symbol of Rabat's commitment to regional security and global strategic collaboration. 

Held under the High Instructions of King Mohammed VI, Supreme Commander and Chief of General Staff of the FAR, African Lion 2025 will run until 23 May in different regions of the Kingdom. The opening ceremony, held at the Southern Zone Headquarters in Agadir, brought together senior Moroccan and US military commanders, as well as representatives of the allied countries participating in this 21st edition. 

During the opening ceremony, Major General Mohammed Benlouali, Chief of Staff of the Southern Zone, and Brigadier General Daniel Cederman, Deputy Commander General of the U.S. Army Southern Task Force Africa (SETAF-Africa), presented the scenario for the Command Post Simulation Exercise and the main activities planned.

In his speech, General Benlouali emphasised that this edition reflects the strength of the alliance between the FAR, the US Army and partner countries, highlighting the constant evolution of operational capabilities thanks to this joint training framework. ‘This strengthened alliance has enabled the development of skills in the various activities scheduled throughout the editions of this exercise,’ he added. 

For his part, General Cederman described the exercise as ‘a truly remarkable event’ that demonstrates ‘the significant value of this training and the growing strength of our partnerships.’ He also highlighted that Morocco's active involvement ‘is a clear sign of the strength of our alliance and our shared commitment to peace, prosperity and security, both regionally and globally.’ 

The African Lion 2025 programme covers a wide range of activities, including land, air and maritime manoeuvres, specialised training in CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) environments, and humanitarian actions. In a world marked by geopolitical tensions and instability, Morocco is thus reaffirming its role as a reliable partner, a platform for dialogue and a guarantor of security in North Africa and the Sahel.