Extent and Causes of Terrorism in Africa and its Impact in the Continent

African Politics and Development-Terrorism
Background
The second-largest continent in the world, Africa, comprises 54 countries. The continent is endowed with natural resources, making it an integral part of world economics. The majority of countries in Africa are politically young, having gained their independence in the late 20th century. With various African economies making significant strides, the continent has a promising future in global matters. Historically, Africa has been the epicenter of poverty and tribal conflicts, most of which are the aftermath of colonization. The majority of African nations have established effective measures to counter these issues. In the wake of the 21st century, Africa has become the epicenter of terrorism. Currently, different regions of the continent are struggling with the issue, but terrorist activities are increasing at an alarming rate. This blog focuses on the extent of terrorism in Africa, the causes of terrorism, the impact of terrorist activities in the continent, and the strategies against terrorism.
The extent of Terrorist Activities in Africa
Terrorism can be defined as the use of terror and intimidation to coerce governments or populations to adhere to certain political or social objectives. It is characterized by violence, the creation of terror, a targeted audience, innocent victims, and political or social goals. In the 21st century, Africa has become the new epicenter of terrorist activities. In 2020, there were more than 4900 violent attacks led by African jihadi actors. This was a dramatic increase compared to 288 violent attacks in 2019 and below 100 attacks between the year 2000-2002. The global overview of global terrorism showed that seven in ten countries under the threat of jihadi violence were in Africa between 2018 and 2020. Statistics on the deaths related to terrorists show that Africa has the second most casualties after south Asia, the popular grounds for jihadi violence. The recent trends adopted by the Islamic States illustrate that terrorism in Africa has not reached its climax. Currently, various countries, including Nigeria, Burkinafaso, and other nations in the Sahel region, are battling the rising insurgency from Boko Haram. Africa witnessed recording-setting violence attacks and casualties in 2021, making it the world's most affected region by jihadi violence. The main areas affected by terrorism and developing jihadi violence in Africa include the Lake Chad region, the Sahel, Egypt, Somalia, And Mozambique.
Deaths from Terrorism in 2017
Deaths from terrorism between 1970 and 2017
The Case of Boko Haram in Nigeria
Nigeria is among the African recording high cases of Jihadi aggressions. These aggressions are propagated by Boko Haram jihadists, who are based in Northern Nigeria and active in other nations in Sahel region. Boko Haram was founded in 2002 with an objective of purifying Islam in Northern Nigeria. It remained inactive awaiting its growth and expansion to overthrow the Nigerian government. Its insurgence gained momentum in 2009, whereby the group has contributed to tens of thousands death in Nigeria. Amid 2010s, the group was the deadliest terror group worldwide. Before 2009, Nigerian government had managed to suppress aggression ...