"About 51% of global terror-related deaths are recorded in the Sahel, where two al-Qaeda-linked groups are expanding. Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) and the so-called Islamic State groups are behind the wave of terror in the Sahel, especially in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. These groups are increasingly spreading south and infiltrating countries such as Benin, Togo, Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana, too. In Benin's northern border towns, attacks on military outposts and civilians are a constant threat."
"Why the coast? A corridor for terror groups to escape military offensives, the long stretch of coastal West Africa is also a vital trade artery and gateway into the landlocked countries and key to European shipping lines. Perhaps more importantly, there's the W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) Complex of protected lands and parks that cuts across Benin, Burkina Faso and Niger and borders Togo, Ghana and Nigeria. Experts say it provides not only a "safe buffer" for terrorists but also serves as a zone for smuggling and other illicit economic activities."
The Sahel region accounts for roughly half of global terror-related deaths, driven by al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) and Islamic State affiliates. Violence is concentrated in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with militant activity spreading south into Benin, Togo, Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana. Benin's northern border areas face frequent attacks on military posts and civilians, including an April 2025 assault that killed at least 54 soldiers. Coastal West Africa offers a corridor for militants to evade offensives, a critical trade route, and access to the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, which provides terrain for concealment, smuggling and recruitment.
Read at www.dw.com
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