Attaf Urges Comprehensive African Strategy to Combat Terrorism

Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the National Community Abroad and African Affairs Ahmed Attaf participated via videoconference in a ministerial meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council devoted to combating terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting examined ways to strengthen continental counter-terrorism efforts at both institutional and operational levels.

Discussions focused particularly on the African Union’s Strategic Action Plan for Counter-Terrorism for the 2026–2030 period. The plan incorporates proposals presented by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in his capacity as the African Union Champion for preventing and combating terrorism and violent extremism.

In his address, Attaf stressed the importance of making effective use of Africa’s existing institutions and mechanisms to develop a comprehensive and integrated strategy against terrorism.

He highlighted the significant transformation in the activities of terrorist groups and the growing geographical scope and complexity of the threats they pose.

Attaf recalled President Tebboune’s repeated warnings that terrorism has become a direct threat to Africa’s security and stability, as well as a major obstacle to the continent’s development efforts. He said these evolving challenges require the African Union to adapt its approach and strengthen its ability to respond effectively.

The minister also called for closer cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations. He referred to Algeria’s efforts during its membership of the UN Security Council, particularly its contribution to the presidential statement adopted in January 2025 on combating terrorism in Africa.

The statement, initiated during Algeria’s presidency of the Security Council, highlighted Africa’s counter-terrorism institutions and recognized President Tebboune’s role as the African Union’s counter-terrorism champion.

Attaf concluded by reaffirming Algeria’s confidence in Africa’s capacity to defeat terrorism.

He stressed that achieving this objective requires stronger state institutions, properly equipped security services, effective action against the root causes of radicalization and expanded international partnerships based on cooperation and shared responsibility.