Written question asked by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Wednesday, 29 March 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 14 April 2023. It was answered by Lord Goldsmith of Richmond Park (Conservative) on Thursday, 13 April 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Sahel: Security

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what support they have provided to (1) the African Union, (2) the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), (3) the Commonwealth nations in West Africa, to counter the threat posed by terrorists in the Sahel.

Answer: The UK works with and supports the efforts of the African Union, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and countries across West Africa to counter the threat posed by terrorism, foster long-term stability and address the underlying drivers of conflict. The UK is assessing what support it can offer to the Accra Initiative, a regional security initiative, to help prevent the spread of violence and instability from the Sahel to coastal West Africa. In addition, the UK has strategic security partnerships with Ghana and Nigeria, which includes supporting Nigeria to address the causes of insecurity and conflict. The UK also continues to support stabilisation efforts in the Lake Chad Basin to build the capacity of the security sector in Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad to respond to violent extremism and protect civilians affected by conflict.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL6976
Session: 2022-23
Related items: Sahel: Security
Wednesday, 19 July 2023
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Development aid Security West Africa Sahel
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk