Increasing Threats of Extremism in Northern Côte d’Ivoire Following Aid Cuts
Northern border communities in Côte d’Ivoire face escalating extremist threats due to the suspension of a critical $20 million U.S. counterterrorism initiative. This funding had supported various projects aimed at preventing extremism and fostering community resilience. As violence intensifies in the region, leaders stress the urgent need for vigilance and address the poverty and marginalization that contribute to extremist recruitment.
Border communities in northern Côte d’Ivoire are increasingly threatened by extremism following the suspension of crucial counterterrorism funding. This $20 million U.S.-funded initiative, which previously aided numerous villages like Kimbirila-Nord in combatting extremist expansion, has been halted due to extensive cuts in foreign aid, raising significant concerns about the residents’ safety.
In response to a jihadi attack in a neighboring Mali community five years ago, this funding aimed to prevent the growth of al-Qaida and Islamic State groups. The initiative supported numerous villages that now find themselves on the frontline of violence. As regional violence escalates to unprecedented levels, tens of thousands of refugees have entered northern Côte d’Ivoire, further igniting fears of instability.
Chief Yacouba Doumbia, 78, of Kimbirila-Nord noted, “What attracts young people to extremism is poverty and hunger.” He emphasized that the funding from the project arrived at a crucial moment, enabling communities to implement protective measures.
The initiative encompassed various strategies, including youth job training, the establishment of cattle grazing parks to deter livestock theft, and an information-sharing system to report violence. Additionally, it supported community radio networks and mobile government services to help residents acquire identity documents.
This comprehensive program tackled core issues driving extremist recruitment, such as resource competition, marginalization, and the absence of economic opportunities. Moreover, it fostered community resilience in a region characterized by cross-border movement, ethnic strife, and limited government services.
In recent years, West Africa has witnessed a surge in extremist activities, with groups affiliated with al-Qaida and Islamic State capturing widespread territory in the Sahel and moving toward wealthier coastal regions. Côte d’Ivoire gained notoriety following a 2016 attack on a popular seaside resort that resulted in the deaths of several tourists.
Chief Doumbia expressed the urgency of vigilance, stating, “If you forget, they will come back. As long as there is war across the border, we must remain on high alert.”
The suspension of the $20 million U.S.-funded initiative to combat extremism in northern Côte d’Ivoire has left communities vulnerable to rising threats. With the cessation of vital programs aimed at addressing the root causes of extremism, local leaders emphasize the need for continued vigilance against the backdrop of increasing regional violence and instability.
Original Source: northafricapost.com
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