AT readers were informed  in February that President Bush directed the establishment of the US African Command (AFRICOM).  The new HQ will streamline operational functions for an area that previously was assigned to three separate commands, and so will exercise geographic combatant command responsibility for the entire continent, minus Egypt.  AT has been informed that the new command will set up its website in the near future, but in the meantime, a publicly accessible briefing is available here  that provides information on the command including its draft mission statement, operational concepts, area of responsibility, and the strategic importance of the African continent.  Readers will be kept informed as the new command matures.