Exercise Southern Accord 2024 officially commenced on August 5, 2025, marking the beginning of a two-week joint military exercise between U.S. and Botswana forces.
The opening ceremony in Gaborone kicked off a comprehensive training operation aimed at bolstering bilateral military cooperation and readiness. Sponsored by U.S.
Africa Command and led by the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), the bi-annual exercise unites U.S. Army and Air Force personnel with their Botswana Defence Force (BDF) counterparts.
The training focuses on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, peacekeeping missions, and aeromedical evacuations, enhancing multinational military capabilities and interoperability.
At the opening ceremony, U.S. Army Col. Mark Whiteman, senior defense official and defense attaché with the U.S. Embassy in Gaborone, emphasized the significance of the exercise and the enduring partnership between the two nations. “We’re very excited to join together with our partners here in Botswana,” said Whiteman.
“From academic courses to the field training exercise to real-world humanitarian aid, this year’s exercise provides an unparalleled opportunity to increase our joint readiness.”
The North Carolina National Guard, which has maintained a State Partnership Program with the BDF since 2008, plays a key role in Southern Accord, further demonstrating the shared commitment of the U.S. and Botswana to collective defense efforts.
BDF Maj. Gen. Joseph Eno Seelo, deputy commander of the BDF, highlighted the exercise’s role in reinforcing the U.S.-Botswana military relationship.
“It is my fervent belief that this exercise will serve as a platform where, as partners, we will have the opportunity to engage on issues of common interest in the theater of operations and throughout the broader national security environment,” Seelo stated.
Southern Accord is conducted across three locations in Botswana, providing participants with varied training environments and scenarios. Additionally, the exercise supports gender integration and Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiatives, demonstrating both nations’ commitment to inclusivity and empowerment in the military.
The exercise will conclude on August 15, 2025, with a closing ceremony celebrating the strengthened partnership between the two nations.
