Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement – RFLD has identified the main problems facing West and Central Africa:

1. Terrorism and insurgency: West and Central Africa have witnessed the rise of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram in Nigeria, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and affiliated groups in Mali, Chad, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Niger and the Sahel region. These groups destabilize communities, carry out attacks and represent a major threat to peace and security.

2. Inter-community and ethnic conflicts: Ethnic and community tensions often degenerate into violent conflict. Factors such as competition for resources, land disputes, political marginalization and historical grievances contribute to these conflicts. Examples include clashes between herders and farmers, inter-ethnic violence and conflicts over natural resources.

3. Organized crime and illicit activities : West and Central Africa serve as a hub for drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking and other forms of organized crime. These activities undermine stability, contribute to corruption and exacerbate insecurity.

4. Weak governance and institutional capacity: Weak governance structures, inadequate rule of law and corruption compromise security and provide fertile ground for the emergence and persistence of conflict. Limited institutional capacities in areas such as security forces, judicial systems and public administration prevent effective responses to security problems.

5. Transnational threats: West and Central Africa face transnational challenges such as cross-border crime, extremism and spillover from conflicts in neighboring regions. These threats require coordinated regional and international efforts.

6. Socio-economic factors: Poverty, unemployment and inequality contribute to social unrest and create conditions that can be exploited by extremist groups. Limited access to basic services, education and economic opportunities can fuel grievances and conflict dynamics.

—–

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach combining security measures, conflict prevention and resolution, governance reforms and socio-economic development initiatives. Regional collaboration, international support and the involvement of local communities are essential to promote peace and security in West and Central Africa.