Terrorism in Africa: a comparative evaluation of Al-Shabab and Boko Haram

Abstract

Terrorism is a very controversial concept that generates divergent meanings to different people. Paradoxically, the differences amongst analysts who interpret the activities of a sect as terror-laden, often reaches a meeting point, when the actors in the given mayhem consistently exhibit actions that violate almost all fundamental human rights. That is the scenario created by the activities of Al Shabab and Boko Haram. This work presents a synoptic history of the two terror sects. It shows how the operational dynamics of both sects are closely related. It also documents the implications of their activities for their countries of origin and beyond. Finally the work called for the enthronement of multi-track peace building strategies and counter-insurgency strategies both at the domestic and international levels as a road map to check the sects' activities.