UN chief urges African states to tackle terrorism and climate change

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged African States to work on tackling terrorism and climate change effectively in order to maintain peace and security in the nation. According to recent reports, terrorism is growing at an alarming rate in Africa, with serious implications for peace and security everywhere, Guterres told a Security Council debate on the role of preventative diplomacy, conflict prevention and resolution in Africa.  

Terrorist groups attacking locals on a daily basis

In Sahel, terrorist groups attack the locals and international security forces on a daily basis. The chief quoted that the violence is spreading close to coastal states along the Gulf of Guinea. Boko Haram and its splinter factions are terrorizing local communities and attacking security forces in Nigeria, despite the constant efforts put by the Multinational Joint Task Force. 

Read: Antonio Guterres Calls For Elimination Of Nuclear Weapons At UNGA

Guterres said that they have analyzed the terrorist networks across Libya and North Africa, which are spreading and stretching their arms through the Sahel to the Lake Chad region, and presently, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mozambique. He also added that they are not winning the battle against these terrorist groups.  

Read: Antonio Guterres Addresses UNGA Summit, Calls For More Accountability

Danger to global peace and security

He also said that the issue is not just a regional issue, but a clear and present danger to global peace and security. The UN chief also warned that the impact of the crisis in Libya is growing and spreading throughout the region, as weapons and fighters continually move across borders. Peace in Mali is also essential, he said, expressing hope that despite the terrible attacks in the Mopti region last week, plans for an inclusive political dialogue will facilitate the implementation of the 2015 peace agreement. 

Read: UN Chief Antonio Guterres Praises India's Commitment To South-South Cooperation

Guterres stressed on the urgent need to reduce emissions to prevent catastrophic consequences for sustainable development and security across Africa, and step up support for the countries most affected. 

According to the UN chief, nearly half of Africa's population of 1.3 billion are under the age of 15. Education, training and job opportunities for this generation must be central to any development strategy as well as Women's meaningful participation and leadership are essential to last peace. 

He also mentioned that importance of sustainable and inclusive development, which, he said, is the most effective way to address the underlying causes of conflict, extremism, and terrorism. Tackling poverty and inequality, strengthening state institutions and civil society, and promoting human rights are essential to preventing conflict, and building resilient communities and societies. 

Read: Hate Speech Spreading Like Wildfire Through Social Media: UN Chief