The campaign against terror groups in the Lake Chad Basin and Horn of Africa relies heavily on the use of force as a strategy. However, this approach is yet to deliver a sustainable solution. Although dialogue with terror groups is a sensitive and complex undertaking, it needs to be explored as a policy option that can complement existing counter-terrorism approaches. This policy brief explores the option of dialogue with three of Africa’s most violent terror groups with a view to understanding the extent to which they can be amenable to talks. A clearer understanding of issues would be indispensable for policy practitioners, particularly at a time when alternative approaches to countering terrorism in Africa are crucial.
