Traditionally, counter-terrorism efforts have relied on methods such as human intelligence (HUMINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT), and diplomatic cooperation. While effective, these approaches have often faced limitations in speed, accuracy, and cross-border collaboration. However, technological innovations now enable security agencies to respond to threats more swiftly and effectively.

READ ALSO: 2024 Electronic Communication Regulation Draft: Implications for Africa’s Digital Security

One of the most significant advances in counter-terrorism is the use of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) to predict and prevent attacks. Governments and international security organisations now have access to vast amounts of data—ranging from social media activity and financial transactions to travel patterns and satellite imagery—that can be analysed in real-time. Predictive models can, for example, detect early signs of radicalisation by analysing online communications or flag unusual travel routes that may indicate terrorist movements.

Despite these advancements, security agencies across borders often struggle with sharing sensitive information due to concerns about data integrity, security, and the risk of leaks. In this regard, blockchain technology is being utilised to establish secure and transparent channels for intelligence sharing. This ensures that all stakeholders have access to the same up-to-date information without compromising its integrity.

Regional cooperation is vital for an effective counter-terrorism strategy, yet differences in national interests, resources, and geopolitical considerations have historically hindered collaboration. The advent of digital technologies is transforming this dynamic, providing new avenues for cooperation and strengthening collective security arrangements. Regional security cooperation has now expanded beyond traditional military and intelligence collaboration to include cyber defence initiatives, as terrorist groups increasingly exploit digital vulnerabilities.

Many regional security organisations, such as NATO, the African Union, and the ASEAN Regional Forum, are bolstering their cybersecurity frameworks by sharing real-time information on cyber threats, conducting joint training exercises, and developing standardised protocols for responding to cyberattacks. AI-driven threat detection systems, cyber defence platforms, and intelligence-sharing networks are playing a crucial role in creating a more unified and resilient response to cyberterrorism.

Counter-terrorism efforts often involve tracking the movement of people, weapons, and money across borders. Digital technologies such as drones, satellite surveillance, and facial recognition software have significantly enhanced the ability of regional security forces to monitor these activities in real-time. The European Union’s EUROSUR (European Border Surveillance System), for instance, integrates surveillance data from member states’ border agencies, satellites, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect irregular migration patterns and potential terrorist activity along the EU’s external borders.

Social media has become a key tool for terrorist organisations to recruit, radicalise, and coordinate attacks. Consequently, many governments are turning to digital solutions to monitor online activity for signs of extremist behaviour. By leveraging AI, machine learning, and natural language processing, security agencies can track online conversations across multiple languages, identify individuals expressing radical ideologies, and monitor potential recruitment activities in real-time.

A significant challenge in adopting a digital approach to cross-border security is balancing security with privacy. The collection and analysis of vast amounts of personal data—particularly from social media and communication platforms—raise concerns about surveillance overreach and potential infringements on civil liberties. Moreover, ensuring that digital tools are used responsibly, without inadvertently spreading misinformation or wrongfully targeting individuals, is another pressing issue. Collaboration between governments, civil society, and technology companies will be crucial in establishing transparent and accountable digital counter-terrorism practices.

The digitalisation of counter-terrorism and regional security cooperation is still in its early stages, but the potential for positive impact is vast. The key to success will be fostering greater cooperation among nations, sharing knowledge and resources, and ensuring that technological advancements are employed ethically and responsibly. By harnessing digital tools such as AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity initiatives, regional security organisations can build a more interconnected and resilient defence network—one that enhances their ability to combat terrorism while laying the groundwork for long-term peace and stability, particularly in Africa.

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With a strong background in law and public administration, Rimin-Gado is well-equipped to confront the entrenched systems of corruption hindering development. Since his appointment as head of the PCACC, he has overseen numerous high-profile investigations into public officials and private individuals accused of embezzlement, fraud, and abuse of office, resulting in several successful prosecutions. This demonstrates the commission’s firm focus on accountability, irrespective of the individuals involved.

A notable achievement has been the restructuring of the PCACC to enhance operational efficiency. Through capacity-building programs and the implementation of advanced investigative tools, the commission has significantly improved its ability to tackle complex cases. Additionally, Rimin-Gado has prioritized public engagement by launching awareness campaigns aimed at educating citizens about their role in combating corruption. These initiatives are designed to cultivate a culture of accountability, encouraging the public to report misconduct and actively participate in governance.

Rimin-Gado’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has been nominated for the Distinguished Award for Exemplary Anti-Corruption Leadership at the African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Awards, scheduled for February 2025 in Casablanca, Morocco. This recognition highlights his pivotal role in driving systemic reforms and promoting accountability in Kano State, further solidifying his position as a notable leader in Africa’s broader fight against corruption.

However, Rimin-Gado’s journey has not been without challenges. Investigating corruption at high levels often invites political pressure and public criticism. These obstacles underscore the challenges of leading an anti-corruption body in an environment where accountability is frequently compromised. Yet, Rimin-Gado remains focused on institutional reforms, stressing the need for stronger legal frameworks to support anti-corruption efforts.

Looking forward, Rimin-Gado is determined to leverage technology to enhance transparency and efficiency in governance. His push for e-governance platforms and digital reporting systems aims to make corruption reporting more accessible and reduce the bureaucratic inefficiencies that enable corruption to thrive.

As Rimin-Gado continues his tenure, his work raises important questions about the sustainability of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria. The current administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf in the state deserves some commendation for the atmosphere it enables in the fight against corruption. However, can institutional reforms endure beyond the tenure of individual leaders? What measures are necessary to ensure the fight against corruption remains unimpeded by political interests?

Rimin-Gado’s leadership at the PCACC under the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf serves as a case study in tackling systemic corruption in challenging environments. His approach has yielded tangible results but underscores the need for institutional resilience and a collective commitment to accountability. His recognition at the upcoming African Leadership Magazine awards highlights the critical role of leadership in addressing systemic challenges, offering his work as a model for others to emulate.

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Currently, over 20% of the 8,200 police officers serving in 17 UN regional offices and field operations are women. This milestone reflects the achievements of the United Nations Police (UNPOL) in meeting the gender parity goals set by the UN Secretary-General for 2025.

READ ALSO: Celebrating UN Day and Its Role in African Peacekeeping

Through innovative approaches to networking, relationship building, and integrating women’s perspectives, UNPOL female officers significantly enhance the operational performance of peacekeeping missions. Their contributions are instrumental in ensuring the missions are more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and effective.

Women recruited from military and police forces currently participate in 12 UN peacekeeping missions worldwide, with six based in Africa and three in the Middle East.

The formal involvement of women in UN peacekeeping missions began in 1957. However, a pivotal moment came in 2007 when India deployed the first all-female, highly skilled, and well-equipped Formed Police Unit to Liberia. This landmark deployment underscored the vital role women play in peacekeeping and marked a turning point in their representation.

Women peacekeepers are often seen as particularly well-suited to humanitarian work, especially in fostering communication with civilian women and children. This perception has led to a gradual but significant increase in their participation in peacekeeping missions over time.

Between 1957 and 1989, only 20 uniformed women participated in peacekeeping missions. By September 2023, this number had risen to 6,200. However, women remain underrepresented in military contingents, comprising less than 10% of the more than 70,000 uniformed peacekeepers, which include over 62,000 servicemen.

Top African Contributors to Female UN Peacekeepers

As of August 2024, the ten African nations contributing the highest number of female police officers to UN peacekeeping deployments are:

1. Rwanda – 678

2. Ghana – 428

3. Senegal – 210

4. Ethiopia – 206

5. Zambia – 225

6. South Africa – 221

7. Cameroon – 121

8. Tanzania – 189

9. Malawi – 106

10. Egypt – 96

The distinct contributions of female peacekeepers are increasingly recognised, highlighting their unique capacity to address challenges in peacekeeping and foster trust within communities.

A Vision for the Future

The rising acknowledgment of women’s contributions to peacekeeping efforts is a step towards a more equitable future. With continued empowerment of African women, the international community can look forward to even greater achievements in UN peacekeeping and beyond.

The post African Women in UN Peacekeeping: Contributions to Gender Parity appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Peace and stability are essential prerequisites for sustainable development and human security in Africa. However, the continent has been plagued by various forms of conflict, including civil wars, ethnic tensions, and political violence, which have had devastating social, economic, and humanitarian consequences. In the face of such challenges, women have emerged as key agents of peace, playing diverse roles in conflict prevention, resolution, and reconciliation across Africa.

Despite their significant contributions, women continue to be marginalized and excluded from formal peace processes, often relegated to the sidelines or confined to traditional roles within patriarchal societies. This essay seeks to analyze the vital role of women in peace and conflict resolution in Africa, exploring the obstacles they face, the strategies they employ, and the transformative impact of their involvement. By shedding light on women’s agency and resilience in peacebuilding efforts, this essay aims to underscore the imperative of empowering women and promoting gender equality as central pillars of sustainable peace and development in Africa.

Women’s Roles in Peace and Conflict Resolution

Women play multifaceted roles in peace and conflict resolution, operating at various levels—from grassroots community initiatives to national and regional peace processes. Their contributions encompass mediation, negotiation, advocacy, reconciliation, and grassroots mobilization, often drawing on their unique experiences, perspectives, and networks to address the root causes of conflict and promote sustainable peace.

At the grassroots level, women are often the first responders to conflict, mobilizing their communities, providing humanitarian assistance, and fostering dialogue and reconciliation. Through women’s peace committees, community dialogues, and interfaith networks, women promote social cohesion, resolve intercommunal tensions, and mitigate the impact of violence on vulnerable populations, including women and children.

In addition to their grassroots efforts, women have also been active participants in formal peace processes, albeit often in limited capacities. Women’s inclusion in peace negotiations and decision-making bodies has been shown to enhance the legitimacy, effectiveness, and sustainability of peace agreements. Women bring diverse perspectives, priorities, and skills to the table, advocating for issues such as gender equality, human rights, transitional justice, and the inclusion of marginalized groups.

Case Studies of Women’s Peace building Initiatives

Liberia: The Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace movement, led by women such as Leymah Gbowee and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, played a pivotal role in ending the country’s civil war and paving the way for peace and democracy. Through nonviolent protests, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots mobilization, Liberian women pressured warring factions to negotiate peace agreements and participate in reconciliation efforts.

Rwanda: In the aftermath of the 1994 genocide, Rwandan women played a central role in rebuilding their shattered communities and promoting reconciliation. Women’s organizations such as SEVOTA (Solidarity for the Development of Widows and Orphans to Promote Self-Sufficiency and Livelihoods) provided support to survivors, facilitated trauma healing, and promoted social cohesion through initiatives such as women’s cooperatives and peacebuilding workshops.

Sudan/South Sudan: Women from Sudan and South Sudan have been instrumental in advocating for peace and addressing the root causes of conflict in the region. Organizations such as the Sudanese Women Empowerment for Peace (SuWEP) and the South Sudan Women’s Empowerment Network (SSWEN) have mobilized women across ethnic and religious lines to demand an end to violence, promote dialogue, and participate in peace negotiations.

Despite their invaluable contributions, women face numerous challenges and barriers to their participation in peace and conflict resolution efforts in Africa. These challenges include:

Patriarchal Norms and Gender Stereotypes: Deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and gender stereotypes often marginalize women’s voices, limit their access to decision-making spaces, and undermine their credibility as peacebuilders. Women may face resistance, discrimination, and backlash when challenging traditional gender roles or advocating for their inclusion in peace processes.

Lack of Representation and Inclusion: Women are frequently underrepresented or excluded from formal peace negotiations, decision-making bodies, and leadership positions. Peace processes often lack gender balance and fail to adequately address the specific needs, priorities, and experiences of women and other marginalized groups.

Resource Constraints: Women-led peacebuilding initiatives often face resource constraints, including limited funding, capacity, and institutional support. Women’s organizations may struggle to access funding, technical assistance, and other resources needed to sustain their activities and scale up their impact.

Security Risks and Gender-Based Violence: Women peace builders are vulnerable to various forms of gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, intimidation, and targeted attacks. In conflict-affected areas, women may face heightened security risks when advocating for peace, challenging armed groups, or promoting human rights.

Strategies for Empowerment and Inclusion

Addressing the challenges and barriers to women’s participation in peace and conflict resolution requires a multifaceted approach that combines legal, policy, institutional, and societal reforms. Key strategies include:

Legal and Policy Reforms: Enacting and enforcing laws and policies that promote gender equality, women’s rights, and women’s participation in peace processes. This includes adopting quotas or affirmative action measures to ensure women’s representation in decision-making bodies and peace negotiations.

Capacity-Building and Training: Providing training, capacity-building, and mentorship programs to enhance women’s skills, knowledge, and confidence as peacebuilders. This includes training in negotiation, mediation, conflict resolution, leadership, and advocacy.

Institutional Support and Funding: Allocating resources and providing institutional support to women’s organizations and peacebuilding initiatives. This includes funding women-led projects, providing technical assistance, and establishing partnerships with civil society, international organizations, and donor agencies.

Awareness-Raising and Advocacy: Conducting awareness-raising campaigns and advocacy efforts to promote the importance of women’s participation in peace and conflict resolution. This includes challenging gender stereotypes, highlighting women’s contributions to peace building, and mobilizing support for gender-sensitive peace processes.

Impacts of Women’s Participation

The inclusion of women in peace and conflict resolution processes yields numerous benefits, including:

Enhanced Legitimacy and Effectiveness: Women’s participation enhances the legitimacy, inclusivity, and effectiveness of peace processes, leading to more comprehensive and sustainable peace agreements. Women bring diverse perspectives, priorities, and skills to the table, addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting reconciliation.

Gender-Responsive Solutions: Women’s participation ensures that peace agreements and post-conflict reconstruction efforts address the specific needs, priorities, and experiences of women and other marginalized groups. This includes provisions for gender equality, women’s rights, access to justice, and socio-economic empowerment.

Social Cohesion and Reconciliation: Women’s peace building initiatives promote social cohesion, reconciliation, and healing in conflict-affected communities. By fostering dialogue, empathy, and understanding across ethnic, religious, and cultural divides, women contribute to building trust and solidarity among diverse groups, laying the foundation for long-term peace and stability.

Sustainable Development: Women’s participation in peace building contributes to sustainable development by addressing the underlying socio-economic and political grievances that fuel conflicts. When women are empowered to participate in decision-making processes, allocate resources, and shape development priorities, they can promote inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and social justice.

Role Models and Empowerment: Women’s involvement in peace building serves as a powerful example for future generations, inspiring other women and girls to assert their rights, pursue leadership roles, and contribute to positive change in their communities. By challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes, women peace builders empower themselves and others to demand equality, justice, and dignity.

Women’s integral role in peace and conflict resolution in Africa is undeniable, yet often overlooked or marginalized. Despite facing systemic barriers and gender-based discrimination, women have demonstrated remarkable resilience, creativity, and leadership in fostering peace, reconciliation, and social cohesion within their communities and nations.

To harness the full potential of women as agents of peace, it is imperative to address the structural inequalities and institutional biases that limit their participation in peace processes. This requires legal reforms, policy changes, institutional support, and societal transformations that promote gender equality, women’s rights, and women’s empowerment.

By recognizing and supporting women’s contributions to peace building, African countries can unlock new opportunities for sustainable development, human security, and inclusive prosperity. Investing in women’s leadership, skills development, and participation in decision-making processes is not only a matter of justice and human rights but also a strategic imperative for building peaceful and resilient societies in Africa and beyond.

As we strive for a future free from violence and conflict, let us heed the voices of women, amplify their efforts, and work together to create a world where peace, justice, and equality prevail.

The post Analysing Women’s Role in Peace and Conflict Resolution in Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, we are compelled to make this difficult decision. We cannot, in good conscience, proceed with the event under the current circumstances.

We extend our sincerest apologies to all those who have made arrangements to participate in this event. Rest assured, we are committed to exploring alternative avenues to continue our mission of fostering dialogue, sharing insights, and developing collaborative solutions to safeguard Africa’s future.

We express our gratitude to our distinguished guests, speakers, sponsors, partners, and all stakeholders for their understanding and support during this challenging time. Your unwavering commitment to promoting peace, security, and good governance in Africa inspires us, and we remain steadfast in our dedication to this cause.

When there are further updates regarding rescheduling or alternative arrangements for the African Peace and Security Leadership Forum 2024, we will make them available as soon as feasible. In the meantime, we encourage you to stay connected with us through our communication channels for any developments.

Thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued partnership.

Media contact

editor@africanleadership.co.uk

The post Cancelled: African Peace and Security Forum 2024 appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The illicit syphoning of crude oil yields deep-rooted consequences in Nigeria, leading to severe economic repercussions. Oil theft causes substantial revenue loss and disrupts oil operations, significantly impacting Nigeria’s economy. Nevertheless, the proactive measures and strategic arrests by the Nigerian Navy aim to alleviate these economic adversities by targeting those involved in these illegal activities.

Significantly, the Navy’s involvement in apprehending crude oil thieves extends beyond economic ramifications. It assumes a critical role in preserving national security. Oil theft foments unrest in the Niger Delta region, posing a substantial threat to Nigeria’s stability. By actively combating these criminal activities, the Navy contributes significantly to restoring peace and stability in the region.

The recent string of apprehensions made by the Nigerian Navy further underscores their dedication to combating oil theft. In particular, the capture of the Motor Tanker VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS stands out as a significant milestone. This vessel, found engaging in the illegal syphoning of crude oil from the EBESAN oil field, was promptly apprehended by the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) IGBOKODA in Ondo State.

Details of this apprehension, outlined in a recent press release, narrate the vessel’s active involvement in oil theft and the subsequent capture of its 17-member crew. The vessel’s capacity of 15,000 metric tonnes, loaded with approximately 500 metric tonnes of stolen crude oil, depicts the magnitude of illegal operations intercepted by the Navy.

Furthermore, the Navy’s warnings to criminals and their associates, along with their plea for cooperation from the public to report criminal activities, signify a collective responsibility in combating oil theft. Such collaboration is crucial to supporting the Navy’s mission to protect Nigeria’s maritime environment and promote economic prosperity.

However, challenges persist, with allegations of involvement by the Tantita Security Service (TSS) in these illegalities. Despite false alarms raised by TSS after the Navy’s vessel arrest, the Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment.

Recognising the collaborative efforts between the Navy and agencies like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is imperative. Advocating the use of advanced technology for enhanced surveillance and security against oil theft, these alliances reinforce the Navy’s commitment to eradicating oil theft and preserving the ecosystem from harmful practices associated with illegal oil operations.

As mentioned earlier, the arrest of MT VINNALARIS 1 LAGOS echoes the Nigerian Navy’s resolute determination to eliminate oil theft and protect Nigeria’s maritime territories. It signifies their commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring national security, and fostering economic prosperity for Nigeria. The Navy’s relentless efforts continue to emphasise the severity of oil theft as a national concern and the imperative need for sustained vigilance to overcome this challenge.

The post Defending Nigeria: Inside the Navy’s Battle Against Oil Thieves appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

At the core of MSC’s mission lies an unwavering dedication to nurturing harmony and collaboration among West African nations. Serving as a nexus for dialogue, the Council harmonizes diverse viewpoints to forge common ground on issues that reverberate across the region. It stands as a testament to the collective resolve to combat challenges as a unified front, fostering a sense of solidarity among member states.

The undertakings of the MSC transcend mere discussions; they lay the groundwork for pragmatic solutions. By proffering recommendations and orchestrating extraordinary summits involving Heads of States, the Council advocates for peaceful conflict resolution, emphasizing the essence of togetherness in addressing prevalent challenges. This proactive stance underscores West Africa’s allegiance to diplomacy and concerted efforts in the pursuit of a more congruous future.

The resilience of the Council manifests in its robust frameworks, including the Council of Elders and the ECOWAS Standby Forces. These structures epitomize the region’s readiness to promptly respond to emerging issues, fostering a milieu of security and confidence among member states. The strength of the Council lies not solely in discourse but also in its preparedness to take resolute action when warranted, establishing a bedrock of stability and reassurance.

In consonance with global peacekeeping doctrines, the MSC champions a collaborative strategy for conflict management. Advocating for regional mechanisms in resolving disputes, the Council embodies West Africa’s commitment to internal conflict resolution. This approach signifies the region’s determination to curtail the escalation of conflicts and underscores the significance of dialogue and mutual comprehension in the pursuit of enduring peace.

Peace and stability serve as catalysts for progress, and the unwavering commitment of the MSC directly contributes to the advancement of the region. Its proactive involvement in preventive measures, mediation, and regional collaboration lays the groundwork for sustained advancement and prosperity in West Africa. The recent momentous 51st Ordinary Session held in Abuja marked a significant leap forward, showcasing the united dedication of ECOWAS members to collectively address challenges. The imminent Council of Ministers meeting underscores a sustained emphasis on leveraging these insights to propel West Africa towards a brighter, more harmonious future.

The ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council allows for hope and progress in West Africa. Its ceaseless endeavors not only sculpt the region’s diplomatic terrain but also pave the way for a more stable, secure, and prosperous future. As it persists in setting an example, the MSC embodies the region’s ethos of resilience, unity, and sanguinity

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