Morocco calls for a multidimensional approach to combating terrorism in Africa

Tuesday 21 July 2026 - 15:43

By: Azzat Manal

Morocco calls for a multidimensional approach to combating terrorism in Africa

Morocco has called for a comprehensive and multidimensional strategy to address terrorism and violent extremism in Africa, stressing that security measures alone cannot provide lasting solutions to the continent’s growing security challenges.

Speaking during a ministerial meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council dedicated to counterterrorism and the fight against violent extremism, Morocco emphasized the need to adapt collective responses to the rapidly changing methods used by terrorist organizations.

The Moroccan delegation highlighted how extremist groups are increasingly exploiting technological developments to strengthen their ability to recruit members, raise funds and organize operations. This evolution, it argued, requires African countries to modernize their prevention and security mechanisms while improving cooperation and information sharing.

Morocco stressed that prevention should be placed at the heart of Africa’s counterterrorism framework. Strengthening early-warning systems, identifying emerging signs of radicalization and improving risk assessment were presented as key elements in preventing extremist violence before it develops into a broader security threat.

The use of artificial intelligence was also identified as a potentially important tool in this effort. According to the Moroccan position, advanced technologies could contribute to analyzing security risks, monitoring extremist content and improving the ability of authorities to anticipate emerging threats. At the same time, the development of appropriate continental guidelines was encouraged to ensure that such technologies are used responsibly and effectively.

The Moroccan approach also links the fight against terrorism to broader issues of development, governance and social resilience. Poverty, exclusion, weak institutions and limited economic opportunities can create conditions that extremist groups may exploit, making social and economic policies an important component of long-term prevention efforts.

Morocco has advocated an integrated strategy combining security and intelligence capabilities with legal measures, religious education based on moderation, programs aimed at preventing radicalization and initiatives supporting the reintegration of vulnerable individuals.

The country has also highlighted the importance of strengthening African and international cooperation through intelligence sharing, capacity building and South-South partnerships. Such cooperation is considered essential as terrorist networks increasingly operate across national borders and adapt their strategies to changing regional conditions.

The Moroccan position further emphasized the importance of involving women and young people in efforts to prevent violent extremism. Their participation in community-based initiatives and resilience programs can contribute to identifying risks at an early stage and strengthening social cohesion.

The call for a stronger link between peace, security and development reflects a broader debate within Africa over how to address terrorism sustainably. As extremist groups continue to evolve and take advantage of new technologies, African governments face increasing pressure to combine effective security responses with long-term policies that address the underlying drivers of instability.

Morocco’s message at the African Union meeting was therefore centered on prevention, technological adaptation and continental cooperation, with the objective of building a more coordinated and resilient response to terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.