Morocco unveils comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism across Africa

Wednesday 22 January 2025 - 11:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco unveils comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism across Africa

Morocco's permanent UN representative, Ambassador Omar Hilale, presented the kingdom's multi-faceted approach to counter-terrorism before the Security Council on Tuesday. The strategy, developed under King Mohammed VI's guidance, encompasses security enhancement, economic development, religious preservation, and international cooperation.

Speaking at a public debate initiated by Algeria's Security Council presidency, Hilale emphasized Morocco's proactive stance in preventing and eradicating terrorism through a multidimensional framework. The strategy particularly focuses on promoting moderate Islamic values aligned with universal principles of peace and coexistence.

Central to Morocco's religious outreach are two key institutions: the Mohammed VI Foundation for African Ulema and the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines and Morchidates. Since 2015, the institute has trained over 3,000 religious leaders from various African nations, including a recent graduation of 100 imams from Mali.

Hilale raised concerns about the dangerous convergence of separatism, terrorism, and cross-border crime in Africa. He specifically highlighted the growing alliance between separatist groups and terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda and Daesh, warning that these partnerships destabilize regions and exploit societal vulnerabilities.

Morocco's commitment to international cooperation is exemplified by the establishment of the ONUCT Program Office in Rabat - the first of its kind in Africa. Since its inception in 2021, the office has provided training to more than 2,000 agents from 38 African countries. The kingdom also hosts the Marrakech Platform, a high-level counter-terrorism forum for African security agencies, with its third edition held in Fez in June 2024.

The ambassador emphasized that effective counter-terrorism extends beyond security measures, encompassing human rights protection, peace preservation, and international collaboration. These elements, he noted, are crucial for addressing the root causes of terrorism and preventing its long-term impacts across the continent.