Africa remains the world’s most affected region by extremist violence, according to the 2025 Global Terrorism Index (GTI). Years of military actions and diplomacy haven’t stopped terrorism from taking root. So what’s driving this crisis?
The Hotspots: From the Sahel to Cabo Delgado 🗺️
The Sahel, Lake Chad Basin, Horn of Africa, Central Africa and Cabo Delgado in northern Mozambique are ground zero for extremist attacks. Political chaos, weak institutions and fights over resources have created a perfect storm for violent groups to grow.
Why Governance Matters 🛡️
Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, tells us poor security sector governance is a key spark. “Heavy-handed security forces and weak courts give extremists a recruitment pitch,” he explains. When justice systems fail, communities lose trust—and that void gets filled by radical groups.
The 2025 Global Terrorism Index 🔍
The GTI tracks attacks, deaths, injuries and kidnappings over five years. Burkina Faso, Mali and Nigeria top the list in Africa, followed by Somalia, Niger, DR Congo, Cameroon, Mozambique, Chad and Sudan. “These countries keep reappearing because the root conditions haven’t changed,” says Adamu. “Weak governance and scarce resources feed extremism.”
Weapons & Expertise: The Fuel of Conflict 💣
Cheap arms are flooding conflict zones. Adamu points out that in Sudan an AK-47 that once cost $8,500 is now under $100. Smuggled weapons and local expertise help extremist outfits plan deadly attacks and expand their reach.
Understanding these drivers—weak governance, resource competition and easy access to arms—can help shape smarter responses. As young observers, staying informed and demanding accountability are crucial steps to challenging extremism’s grip on Africa.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
