AFP reports that several jihadist groups operate in the Sahel region just over the border from north Benin in Niger and Burkina Faso, including groups tied to Islamic State’s African affiliates. Impoverished north Benin, like other parts of the Sahel, has struggled with growing tensions between sedentary farmers and nomadic herders over resources,land and water. Benin’s northern border region is also a haven for criminal gangs involved in smuggling, poaching or unsanctioned logging, who are believed to maintain informal ties with jihadists. The report noted three border regions in Benin — Borgou, Alibori and Atacora — where communal tensions could be exploited. They were eventually rescued by French special forces in the north of Burkina Faso after the kidnappers sold them on to jihadists.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 10, 2021 16:30 UTC