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Sub-Saharan Africa has become the epicenter of global terrorism, accounting for nearly 59% of all terrorism-related deaths worldwide, according to the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on international peace and security, Ms. Mohammed revealed that terrorism-related fatalities in the region have exceeded 6,000 annually over the past three years, representing more than half of the global total.

Burkina Faso has emerged as the country with the highest terrorism-related deaths globally, experiencing a staggering 68% increase. Ms. Mohammed expressed concern over the insufficient international support to address the escalating crisis, warning that terrorism poses a severe threat to peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.

The impact of terrorism on women and families was described as particularly devastating. Ms. Mohammed noted that women are often subjected to sexual violence, forced marriages, and abductions, leaving deep scars on individuals and communities. She further highlighted how terrorist groups are advancing their operations by pooling resources, financing, and expertise while utilizing new technologies, including drones, to enhance their capabilities.

Ms. Mohammed called for immediate implementation of the promises made in the Pact for the Future, a global initiative endorsed by UN member states in September 2024. She emphasized the need to address the underlying drivers of terrorism, including poverty, inequality, weak governance, and exclusion of women and youth from decision-making processes. According to her, human rights-based approaches and inclusive governance are critical to countering radicalization and recruitment.

The Deputy Secretary-General also stressed the importance of regional cooperation, urging African nations to unify their counter-terrorism strategies. She called on the African Union and its counter-terrorism center to take the lead, while underscoring the necessity of African-led and African-owned solutions.

“Africa has tragically remained the epicenter of global terrorism,” Ms. Mohammed stated. “Only through unified efforts and determined action can we phase down the threat of terrorism and create a path toward lasting peace and stability.”

The UN urged the international community to strengthen support for African nations in their fight against terrorism, warning that fragmented efforts risk emboldening perpetrators and deepening the crisis.