Africanizing the War Against Terror: the Experience of Sadc

Abstract

Terrorism can rightfully be considered as one of the most significant trans-national security threats of the 21'century. Whilst national security has taken a broad spectrum, terrorism remains a vague concept and has a very complex and ambiguous definition. In the strife to secure its interests as well as peace and stability, the SADC region must therefore examine the gaps that would make it susceptible to modern terrorism. It is in this vein that this study grapples to investigate and establish the extent of the threat of terrorism in the region as well as the capacity and strategy required in the africanisation of its war. In a world order which is characterised by conflicts, suspicion and competition, SADC needs to guard its policies so that they reflect signs of the present. It would seem that due to lack of coordinated policies on anti - terrorism, the africanisation of the war against terror in SADC has many challenges. Various study tools were duly engaged In order to achieve a balanced view of the study. The study concludes that whilst the extent of the threat of terrorism is relatively low in SADC, there is potential for it to escalate. Due to the dynamic nature of terrorism and ever increasing occurrences of terror attacks in African regions and elsewhere, SADC needs to cooperate with the international community, address the underlying causes accordingly and devise clear and consistent policies on anti-terrorism. The creation of a powerful institution in the region to deal with terrorism is highly recommended.