Tactics Institute urgently calls upon concerned parties to address the alarming rise in terrorism afflicting Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly the central Sahel region. As the region becomes the epicentre of global terrorism, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to curb this growing threat to regional security and peace.
The latest data from the 2024 Global Terrorism Index (GTI) paints a grim picture, revealing a 22% increase in worldwide deaths from terrorism, reaching 8,352 fatalities – the highest since 2017. Shockingly, Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for nearly 59% of these fatalities, with the Sahel alone representing almost half of all global deaths from terrorism.
Experts have noted a concerning trend of violent extremist organizations becoming increasingly fragmented yet resilient. Rather than adhering to a cohesive agenda, these groups exploit existing conflicts and latch onto local grievances, exacerbating tensions and instability in the region. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) 2023 Armed Conflict Survey highlighted the evolution of jihadist groups in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing their localization and intertwining with community and ethnic conflicts.
The Sahel region exemplifies the fragmented nature of extremist insurrections, with groups like Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) leading the charge. Despite claims of allegiance to international terrorist organizations, such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State (IS), these groups operate primarily as local insurgencies, self-financed and driven by narrow interests.
As of June 2023, there were a staggering 459 active armed groups worldwide, with Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and the Middle East bearing the brunt of this proliferation. With nearly 200 million people living under their control, these groups wield significant power, often overshadowing the authority of state institutions and exacerbating civilian suffering.
The aggravating situation further threatens regional stability and peace, with the potential to spill over into neighbouring countries and beyond. The continued proliferation of terrorism not only undermines the socio-economic development of the region but also poses a grave threat to international peace and security.
Tactics Institute condemns the escalating violence and instability in Sub-Saharan Africa and urges all stakeholders to prioritize concerted efforts to address this pressing issue. The violation of fundamental rights, the erosion of regional security, and the threat to global peace demand immediate and decisive action.
In light of these urgent concerns, the Tactics Institute calls upon all parties involved to take immediate steps to dismantle terrorist networks, address root causes of extremism, and restore stability and security to the region.
