Violent Conflict in the Sahel: Causes, Dynamics, and Actors

Abstract

Over the past decade, the Sahel has experienced endemic poverty and governance failures in different forms. The region has been confronted with recurrent conflicts, becoming the epicentre of violent conflict and instability in the world. The fall of Libya in 2011 has unleashed unforeseen consequences such as protracted conflict on the Sahel states, particularly Mali, Niger, Nigeria and Burkina Faso. Following an inflow of weapons, ammunition and armed fighters from Libya into Mali, a dormant Tuareg rebellion became strengthened. In Nigeria, Boko Haram’s reign of terror has gotten out of hand, and Cameroon is under the siege of secessionist conflict that has killed thousands and threatened its nationhood. Other countries in the region have suffered a similar fate. Despite the presence of international troops in the region, armed groups continue to kill innocent civilians at will. This article locates the contemporary violent conflicts, terrorism and instability of the region in a historical context, examines the root causes of the crisis and identifies the interests of the decisive actors involved in the conflict. It explores the impact of arms proliferation on the region and makes concrete recommendations for the peace and security of the Sahel.