External Funding Fuelling Illegal Mining, Terrorism In Africa

President Bola Tinubu has raised concerns about the strong connection between illegal mining operations and the financing of terrorist activities in Africa. Speaking at a high-level counter-terrorism summit in Abuja, Tinubu called on the international community to take concrete actions to prevent funds outside the continent from being used for illicit activities.

Tinubu painted a grim picture of how proceeds from the illegal mining of precious minerals and resources in Africa are diverted to support the malicious agendas of terrorist groups.

During the African High-level Meeting on Counter-Terrorism in Abuja, Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, proposed a strategy to combat terrorism in Africa. She highlighted the significance of Africa rebuilding its social contract with its citizens and ensuring good governance as a way to address the fundamental causes of terrorism on the continent. Mohammed also stressed the need to prioritize the support and healing of women, girls, and youth who are disproportionately affected by terrorism.

Terrorism remains a persistent global threat to international peace and security, with a significant impact on various regions, particularly in Africa. The increase in terrorism in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, is alarming. The meeting will focus on analyzing the current threats, preventing them, enhancing capacity, and fostering international cooperation to better address terrorism in Africa.