The United Nations (UN) announced yesterday, Thursday, that the proliferation of terrorism across Africa presents a significant danger to global peace and security.
Addressing the Security Council on behalf of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Deputy UN leader Amina Mohammed remarked: “Terrorists and violent extremists, including Da’esh, al-Qaida, and their associates, have taken advantage of instability and conflict to expand their operations and escalate attacks throughout the continent.
“Their irrational, terror-driven violence has resulted in the deaths and injuries of thousands, with many others continuing to endure the broader ramifications of terrorism on their existence and livelihoods.”
Women and girls, in particular, are experiencing the most severe repercussions of insecurity and inequality, she noted, adding that the escalation of terrorism in Africa is “not merely a concern for African Member States but for the entire globe.” Misogyny is central to the ideologies of numerous terrorist organizations.
Mohammed detailed five suggestions to enhance counterterrorism initiatives in Africa, underscoring that prevention remains the most effective strategy.
“We must confront the instability and conflict that can incite terrorism initially, as well as the conditions that terrorists exploit in pursuit of their objectives,” she stated.
While advocating for community-centered, gender-aware ‘whole-of-society’ strategies, she acknowledged that there is a complicated relationship between terrorism, patriarchy, and gender-based violence, asserting counter-terrorism policies needed to be “reinforced by the active involvement and leadership of women and girls.”
She clarified that “combating terrorism can never serve as a justification for breaching human rights or international law, as it would only regress us.”
Emphasizing the significance of regional organizations in tackling challenges posed by terrorist and violent extremist factions within the local context, Mohammed ultimately urged for “consistent and foreseeable funding to prevent and counter terrorism.”
