THERE are calls for stronger international cooperation to counter the growing threat of terrorism, particularly in Africa.
This follows the adoption of the Ninth Review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS) during the 2026 United Nations Counter-Terrorism Week currently underway in New York.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly after the adoption of the resolution,
Director General of Zimbabwe’s national counter-terrorism centre, Major General Funnie Mutize, described the global counter-terrorism strategy as the cornerstone of international efforts to combat terrorism.
“The strategy remains the single internationally agreed blueprint to counter terrorism. It provides the international community with a comprehensive framework for preventing and combating terrorism while strengthening cooperation among Member States,” he added
Mutize expressed concern over the changing nature of terrorist threats across the African continent, warning that extremist groups were increasingly exploiting local challenges to advance their agendas.
“The terrorism threat has recently gained intensity in parts of Africa, where terrorist affiliates are operating largely autonomously and tailoring their narratives in line with local grievances.”
He said the evolving threat required renewed commitment from the international community, noting that no country could effectively combat terrorism in isolation.
Mutize stressed that implementing the global counter-terrorism strategy in a balanced and comprehensive manner was critical to addressing both the immediate threats posed by terrorist groups and the underlying conditions that fuel violent extremism.
He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to the United Nations-led counter-terrorism agenda, saying the country remained dedicated to working with other Member States to promote international peace and security.
The adoption of the ninth review of the global counter-terrorism strategy reaffirms the international community’s commitment to strengthening global efforts against terrorism while responding to emerging security threats.
The strategy remains the principal United Nations framework guiding member states in preventing terrorism, countering violent extremism.
