USAFE-AFAFRICA Band Strengthens Partnerships Through Music in Mali
BAMAKO, Mali – The U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) Band’s Wings of Swing ensemble recently completed a series of performances and strategic engagements in Bamako, reinforcing U.S. messaging and strengthening military and diplomatic ties.
Over a week, the band performed alongside Malian musicians, engaged with students, and supported a significant military legal cooperation event.
A standout moment was a collaboration with renowned Malian artists Cheick Tidiane Seck and Ba Sekou Kouyate at the U.S. Embassy in Bamako. The performance at the American Corner, attended by a group of cultural influencers and media professionals interested in American culture, provided a dynamic platform for cross-cultural exchange and artistic diplomacy.
“The energy in the room was incredible,” said a U.S. Defense Attaché Lt Col Alden Gilroy. “This wasn’t just a performance – it was a dialogue between cultures, deepening our engagement with Mali.”
The USAFE-AFAFRICA band also visited the American International School of Bamako, where they performed for more than 80 students and led an interactive Q&A session about American music and the role of military bands in strengthening relationships and demonstrating ‘Peace Through Strength.’
Wings of Swing's trumpeter, Staff Sergeant Chloe Holmes, also enhanced the U.S.-Mali military justice and security cooperation closing ceremony. In addition to the Malian national anthem, she performed a special rendition of Amazing Grace, honoring Malian fallen soldiers and reinforcing shared values of professionalism and ethical military service.
The tour concluded with a multinational gathering at the American Club in Bamako, where the band hosted three Malian musicians. The joint performance created a vibrant atmosphere for an audience that included U.S. Marines and diplomats from Italy, Argentina, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Finland, and Turkey.
“Music has a way of bringing people together, even in challenging environments,” said a U.S. official in attendance. “This event lifted spirits and reinforced the bonds between allied nations working in Mali.”
“The USAF-AFAFRICA Band’s ability to adapt to logistical challenges and complexities of international travel speaks volumes about their professionalism, dedication and mission focus,” said Lt Col Rafael Toro-Quiñones, USAFE-AFAFRICA Band Commander. “Their readiness and spirit of unity allowed them to maximize every opportunity, strengthening relationships, boosting morale, and reinforcing the U.S. commitment to its partners in the region. Through their strategic engagements, they delivered a powerful and reassuring message about the nation’s commitment to international cooperation.”