In a recent statement at the United Nations Security Council, the United Kingdom emphasized its dedication to collaborating with African nations to enhance resilience against the growing threats posed by terrorism. The Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) highlighted the escalating danger that terrorist groups present to African states and communities, particularly in regions like the Sahel.
Terrorist organizations have gained control over significant territories in the Sahel, leading to widespread disruption and suffering among local populations. Despite the courageous efforts of various forces to combat these groups, challenges persist. Al Shabaab continues to pose a significant threat to the lives of citizens in Somalia and Kenya, while Daesh affiliates have emerged as the most lethal actors in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The UK government underscored that while military interventions are crucial in counter-terrorism efforts, they are insufficient on their own. A more comprehensive political strategy is necessary to mitigate the factors that contribute to the recruitment of individuals into terrorist organizations.
Key to this approach is the improvement of governance, poverty alleviation, and addressing climate change, all of which are essential in tackling the root causes of terrorism. The UK stressed that these initiatives must actively involve women, youth, and marginalized communities to be truly effective.
To support these efforts, the UK has pledged a $60 million aid package aimed at bolstering regional and Somali-led initiatives to counteract terrorist threats, particularly from Al Shabaab and Daesh affiliates in East Africa. This funding is part of a broader commitment to work alongside African partners in addressing both the immediate threats of terrorism and the underlying issues that foster conflict and instability.
The UK also recognized the global nature of terrorism, calling for a multi-faceted approach that includes the collaboration of various stakeholders, such as UN agencies, regional organizations, governments, and civil society. The UK commended the ongoing efforts of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) in facilitating dialogue among states in West Africa and the Sahel region.
The UN’s Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy emphasizes the importance of promoting human rights and inclusive governance as part of the fight against terrorism. The UK encouraged regional organizations, particularly the African Union (AU), to enhance coordination efforts, including the renewal of the mandate for the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Additionally, the UK welcomed the adoption of resolution 2767, which authorizes the deployment of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) to combat Al Shabaab and Daesh. The UK called for collective action to implement this resolution and ensure that the mission receives adequate funding to carry out its critical mandate.
In conclusion, the UK reiterated its commitment to working with African partners to bolster resilience against terrorism and promote security and prosperity across the continent. The statement reflects a broader understanding that addressing terrorism requires not only immediate security measures but also long-term strategies that tackle the socio-economic and political factors contributing to instability in the region.
