A four-day African Military Law Forum to discuss the role of legal advisers in the deployment of troops to missions is underway in Lusaka, The Zambian capital.

More than 30 African countries are represented at the event co-hosted by the Zambian Defense Force, the U.S.-Africa Command and the North Carolina National Guard.

Participants, at the conference that opened on Tuesday, include military leaders and magistrates

AFRICOM’s deputy legal counsel, retired Colonel Max Maxwell, says it is critical to ensure the rule of law is followed when troops are deployed.

Maxwell said promoting professional conduct is crucial for a successful

The seventh African Military Law Forum is being held at a time when the United States is bolstering military and security ties with African partners.”

Africa is battling increased instability, particularly in the Sahel region where a jihadi insurgency has ramped up attacks.