😟 Headlines from across Africa show extremist violence remains alarmingly high – and weak governance is a major driver. Here's what young changemakers should know:
Hotspots from the Sahel to Cabo Delgado
- Sahel & Lake Chad Basin: Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Nigeria facing frequent attacks.
- Horn of Africa: Somalia battles persistent al-Shabaab assaults.
- Central Africa: DR Congo's armed groups tap gold and cobalt to fund terror.
- Cabo Delgado (Mozambique): Islamist insurgency disrupting gas projects and trade.
Why Governance Matters
According to the latest 2025 Global Terrorism Index (GTI), Africa leads the world in extremist violence. Experts say:
- "Heavy-handed" security forces and weak judicial systems drive recruitment.
- Water, land, and minerals become battlegrounds when local authorities can't manage resources.
- Cheap, smuggled weapons make it easy for groups to arm up (an AK-47 now sells for as low as $100).
A Perfect Storm for Extremism
Kabir Adamu of Beacon Security notes: "Where governance is weak and resources are scarce, extremism thrives. Armed groups exploit gaps, recruit locals, and expand."
Despite military efforts, violent groups like Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa Province, and al-Shabaab keep launching deadly attacks – a reminder that boots on the ground aren't enough without political stability and community trust.
What's Next?
Young leaders and social entrepreneurs can:
- Support initiatives that strengthen local justice systems and community policing.
- Back programs promoting fair resource management and economic opportunities.
- Amplify voices of survivors & local activists pushing for peace. 🕊️
Building transparent governance and investing in communities are key to turning the tide on terror. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
