The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed has warned that Africa has become the epicenter of global terrorism, posing a significant threat to peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.
Ms. Mohammed while speaking at the UN Security Council highlighted that Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for nearly 59% of all terrorism-related deaths globally. She described the Sahel as the epicenter of this crisis, with terrorism-related fatalities exceeding 6,000 annually for three consecutive years—more than half of the global total.
Burkina Faso, she noted, has become the most affected country, with terrorism deaths increasing by 68%, while the support needed to combat this surge has been insufficient.
Mohammed further expressed alarm over the growing influence of terrorist groups affiliated with Al-Qaida and ISIS, whose activities have spread to coastal West African nations. Violent incidents in these areas have risen by over 250% in just two years.
She cautioned, “If this continues, the future of West Africa is at serious risk.” Terrorist groups are also adapting rapidly, collaborating closely, and sharing resources, including finances, fighters, and advanced technologies such as drones. Mohammed emphasized that counter-terrorism strategies must evolve, prioritizing human rights and the rule of law while addressing the root causes of terrorism.
In her closing remarks, she stressed, “As terrorism adapts, so must our response.” Bankole Adeoye, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, reported that the African Union Counter-Terrorism Centre in Algiers documented over 3,400 attacks in 2024, resulting in more than 13,900 deaths. He described the situation as a critical challenge that demands unified action.
Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf urged the global community not to abandon Africa in its fight against terrorism, stating, “Africa’s achievements will resonate worldwide, while its setbacks will impact us all negatively.”
Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, Musa Timothy Kabba, expressed deep concern over the disengagement from ECOWAS and the security vacuum left by the withdrawal of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the essential role of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) in promoting stability and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to combating terrorism. “Military solutions alone are not enough,” Fiqi said, calling for strategies that address the underlying causes of terrorism.
The leaders collectively underscored the urgency of a unified, strategic response to combat terrorism and its devastating impact on the continent.
