(Counter-) terrorism in Africa: Reflections for a new decade

As the new decade dawns, Africa remains a key frontier for terrorist activity with ongoing terrorist campaigns in Nigeria, Kenya and Somalia, among other places, while new insurgencies have emerged in the Central African Republic and Mozambique. This article provides an introduction to this special issue on terrorism and counter-terrorism in Africa, highlighting the need to review African response(s) to terrorism as the problem worsens. While Africa often appears to speak with one voice against terrorism, it does not act as one. Thus, it is argued that African states need to review their domestic and joint responses to terrorism, to allow for a more comprehensive understanding of (in)capabilities and how best to address them. With the backdrop set, assessments are undertaken in Somalia, South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria. The issues of terrorism financing and bioterrorism are also discussed. Collaboration and sharing best practices among peers on the continent are proposed.