Father Igor Kassah says distrust is growing rife in the communityBenin's strategic significanceBenin's northern regions have endured an increasing number of attacks by Islamic militias since 2018. On the one hand, Beninese security forces do not appear sufficiently organized or equipped to effectively respond to the threat. According to Padanou, the scale of the looming crisis was initially underestimated in Benin. Jihadists often seek shelter in remote nature reserves like this oneA perfect storm for extremismBenin's northern regions are home to the country's poorest. According to a study by US-based analysis group, ACLED and the Dutch think tank, Clingendael, violent incidents have increased by more than 30% in Benin since 2017 especially in the central and northern regions.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 11, 2022 20:39 UTC