Frederick Apphah Afriyie(PhD) - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Frederick Apphah Afriyie(PhD)

Research Center for Analysis and Security Studies (RECASS) , 2024

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional body made up of 15 nations, ... more The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional body made up of 15 nations, founded in 1975, with eight of its members being French-speaking. It functions as a key forum for advancing economic cooperation, free movement, and peacekeeping across West Africa, similar to the European Union. ECOWAS has been instrumental in promoting regional integration and economic stability, while also playing a vital role in peace and security initiatives in the region. In recent years, however, political tensions have escalated. On September 16, 2023, the military-led governments of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger created the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in response to growing dissatisfaction with ECOWAS, particularly its perceived failure to effectively address security threats from jihadist groups. This led to their formal exit from ECOWAS on January 28, 2024, signaling a realignment of regional alliances and raising concerns about ECOWAS's future role in maintaining security and governance in West Africa. The move also highlights a push for closer cooperation among Sahelian countries as they confront shared security and economic issues. This briefing paper aims to examine the factors that led to their withdrawal and the impact of the Alliance of Sahel States' departure from ECOWAS.

Research Center for Analysis and Security Studies(RECASS), 2024

The territorial conflict between Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State ... more The territorial conflict between Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) has escalated the power struggles in the Sahel. As both groups vie for control in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, their ideological and operational distinctions fuel violent confrontations. ISGS, aligned with the Islamic State, emphasizes territorial dominance and mass civilian attacks, while JNIM, linked to al-Qaeda, seeks localized influence and community integration. This rivalry, driven by competition over resources, fighters, and strategic positions, has deepened the humanitarian crisis, leading to displacement, food insecurity, and disrupted livelihoods. The ongoing clashes have eroded state authority and heightened insecurity in a region already plagued by governance issues. Despite occasional cooperation, their intensifying competition has increased violence, impacting both fighters and civilians and raising concerns about long-term stability in the Sahel. This briefing paper examines how the clashes between ISGS and JNIM have impacted the Sahel region.

Strategic Review for Southern Africa, 2024

In the past three years, the African continent has experienced a notable upswing in military coup... more In the past three years, the African continent has experienced a notable upswing in military coups, particularly in Nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Guinea, Chad, and Mali. The Greater Sahel Region has emerged as a global focal point of concern, grappling with issues of inadequate governance, extremism, and violence. Despite the efforts of regional bodies such as ECOWAS, military takeovers persist, posing challenges to democratic processes and heightening the threat of increased terrorism. Since 2020, Niger, a landlocked nation that was once a French colony, has faced its 13th coup attempt, contributing to increased instability in West and Central Africa. Despite robust regional opposition, the junta in Niger persists in power, highlighting the difficulties of overturning a coup. This situation carries geopolitical implications, risking U.S. security assistance to Niger and prompting neighbouring countries to strengthen ties with Russia post-coups. The Secretary of State cautions about potential consequences, underscoring the region’s reputation as the ‘coup capital of the world’. The July 2023 successful coup in Niger not only jeopardises the country’s progress under civilian leaders but also heightens the risks of insecurity, economic crises, and political instability. The Sahel, known as a hub of terrorism, faces increased concerns as Niger’s strategic importance in countering extremism diminishes due to the coup. This event jeopardises Niger’s standing as a democratic stronghold and a deterrent against jihad and Russian influence in the region, accentuating the broader challenge of stabilising the Sahel amid intricate socio-political and security issues. This article aims to illuminate the root causes and consequences of conflict and political instability in the region. Specifically, it seeks to address fundamental questions such as the factors leading to the current political instability and the repercussions of this conflict for Niger and the broader Sahel region. The answers to these questions offer insights into resolving the present challenge.

Journal of intelligence, conflict and warfare, May 31, 2024

Cogent social sciences, May 6, 2024

the creation of Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin(JniM), a lethal extremist organization... more the creation of Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin(JniM), a lethal extremist organization, from the merger of many terrorist organizations, including the saharan branch of al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM), al-Mourabitoun, Macina liberation Front (MlF), and ansar Dine .the sahel is overwhelmed by the wave of attacks that the group has launched since their merger in 2017, which has resulted in nearly 8,000 fatalities, the displacement of millions of civilians, attacks on government officials and traditional leaders, the closure of thousands of schools, and severely stunted economic growth. since 2017, Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin (JniM) has been blamed for more than 64% of all violent occurrences in the sahel area, which includes northern Mali and southeast Burkina Faso. the paper's stated objective is to look into the underlying causes of JniM's excessive radicalism in the sahel. IMPACT STATEMENT Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin (JniM) is an islamist extremist group that operates in the sahel region of West africa. it was formed in March 2017 as a merger between several different jihadist groups in Mali, including: al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM), al-Mourabitoun, Macina liberation Front (MlF), and ansar Dine. JniM's primary objective is to establish an islamic state in the sahel region, and it has been responsible for a number of high-profile attacks on military and civilian targets in Mali and neighboring countries. the group has also been involved in kidnapping for ransom, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities to fund its operations. JniM is affiliated with al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM) and has received support and training from other jihadist groups in the region. the group is led by iyad ag Ghaly, a prominent Malian jihadist who was previously a leader of ansar Dine. JniM poses a significant threat to the stability and security of the sahel region, and it has been the target of military operations by French and african Union forces. however, the group continues to carry out attacks and maintain a presence in the region.

India Quarterly , 2024

Sudan, the third largest nation in Africa, faces severe poverty despite its abundant natural reso... more Sudan, the third largest nation in Africa, faces severe poverty despite its abundant natural resources. Recent economic restructuring efforts offer hope for growth, but a power struggle between the military and paramilitary forces has plunged the country into a crisis. Intense violence in Khartoum and other regions has led to widespread damage to infrastructure and facilities, triggering a humanitarian crisis with millions displaced and urgent aid needs. The conflict, sparked by disputes over paramilitary integration and control of economic assets, threatens regional stability and the transition to democracy. This article analyses the conflict's origins and proposes potential resolutions using the Protracted Social Conflict Theory.

Cogent Social Sciences, 2024

the creation of Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin(JniM), a lethal extremist organization, from t... more the creation of Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin(JniM), a lethal extremist organization, from the merger of many terrorist organizations, including the saharan branch of al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM), al-Mourabitoun, Macina liberation Front (MlF), and ansar Dine .the sahel is overwhelmed by the wave of attacks that the group has launched since their merger in 2017, which has resulted in nearly 8,000 fatalities, the displacement of millions of civilians, attacks on government officials and traditional leaders, the closure of thousands of schools, and severely stunted economic growth. since 2017, Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin (JniM) has been blamed for more than 64% of all violent occurrences in the sahel area, which includes northern Mali and southeast Burkina Faso. the paper's stated objective is to look into the underlying causes of JniM's excessive radicalism in the sahel. IMPACT STATEMENT Jama'at nasr al-islam wal Muslimin (JniM) is an islamist extremist group that operates in the sahel region of West africa. it was formed in March 2017 as a merger between several different jihadist groups in Mali, including: al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM), al-Mourabitoun, Macina liberation Front (MlF), and ansar Dine. JniM's primary objective is to establish an islamic state in the sahel region, and it has been responsible for a number of high-profile attacks on military and civilian targets in Mali and neighboring countries. the group has also been involved in kidnapping for ransom, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities to fund its operations. JniM is affiliated with al-Qaeda in the islamic Maghreb (aQiM) and has received support and training from other jihadist groups in the region. the group is led by iyad ag Ghaly, a prominent Malian jihadist who was previously a leader of ansar Dine. JniM poses a significant threat to the stability and security of the sahel region, and it has been the target of military operations by French and african Union forces. however, the group continues to carry out attacks and maintain a presence in the region.

Journal of Intelligence, Conflict, and Warfare (JICW), 2024

The conflict in Sudan between its military forces and a rival paramilitary group, exacerbated by ... more The conflict in Sudan between its military forces and a rival paramilitary group, exacerbated by allied militias, has escalated into a dire humanitarian crisis, reminiscent of past civil wars where hundreds of thousands perished. This ongoing struggle, marked by thousands of casualties and millions displaced, centers on a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with global powers seeking to influence the outcome. Despite initial hopes for democracy following the ousting of former dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019, political turmoil ensued, culminating in a failed transitional government and the assumption of power by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Despite agreements aimed at civilian-led transition, missed deadlines and the contentious integration of the RSF into the national armed forces perpetuate the conflict. Amidst this turmoil, international sanctions target entities funding the conflict, such as Alkhaleej Bank, Al-Fakher Advanced Works, and Zadna International, among others, reflecting broader efforts to disrupt funding sources and facilitate a democratic transition. In this context, this research delves into the underlying factors driving the conflict in Sudan.

Insight on Africa, Jul 1, 2023

The flare-up of hostilities in Ethiopia’s Tigray district in November 2020 is simply the aftereff... more The flare-up of hostilities in Ethiopia’s Tigray district in November 2020 is simply the aftereffect of a forced battle between so-called reformist Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s central government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This previous revolutionary development ruled Ethiopian legislative issues for over 25 years before Abiy’s rise to control of power in 2018. Numerous Ethiopians considered the TPLF’s rule authoritative, and misconducts executed under its authority stirred up scorn in several groups. The fight additionally displays ethnic strains in the country, which have been exacerbated as of late as the nation goes through political and financial modifications. The advancing battle has effectively brought about outrage, expanded the flow of refugees, and stressed territorial relations. This research article provides an account of the origins of the TPLF and the Tigrayans, Eritrea’s involvement in the conflict, the sources of tension, and the paths to war. Finally, the repercussions of Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict and its corollaries on the Horn of Africa. Specifically, the article draws on the Protracted Social Conflict Theory to explain Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict. The answer stipulates a hint at addressing the current problem.

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Journal of Social and Political Sciences, Sep 30, 2019

Unilateral economic sanctions have become one of the most significant foreign policy tools used b... more Unilateral economic sanctions have become one of the most significant foreign policy tools used by most powerful developed nations across the globe. Some of these countries include Japan, Canada, Australia, and others. However, the United States (US) and European Union (EU), in particular, are very ardent users, having placed unilateral sanctions on North Korea, Iran, Venezuela, and partially on Russia, among others. It is an alternative to military intervention, war, or conflicts. Among these strong nations, the US is one country that applies unilateral sanctions than any other country in the world. Also, various successive US administrations have used this foreign policy tool one way or the other. Further, unilateral sanctions have become more popular in recent decades, and currently, the US has nearly 8000 sanctions in place worldwide, Iran and North Korea by far the largest state target. Though sanctions have existed for a long time, they still remain controversial international foreign policy tools. Notwithstanding, US application of unilateral economic sanctions by both present and previous successive administration is backed by legal authority including the trading with the enemy act (TWEA), the United Nations Participation Act (UNPA), the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Nevertheless, there is legal controversy surrounding unilateral sanctions among critics and proponents, who are entrenched in the position that the developed countries used sanctions against smaller countries, including North Korea. What is more, this argument of controversy is still ongoing, and there seems to be no agreement between critics and proponents. This paper, therefore, provides a legal basis for unilateral sanctions used by the US against other countries, in particular, North Korea. Also, we will elaborate on the justification or otherwise of the legitimacy of US unilateral sanctions against North Korea. The paper is divided into four sections. The first section of this paper elaborates on the introduction, relations between North Korea and the US. Also, it highlights a general overview of unilateral sanctions and US unilateral sanctions on North Korea. The second section deals with the questions: Why do countries such as the US impose unilateral economic sanctions? What other bodies impose sanctions on North Korea? The third part deals with international concern about North Korea, and the fourth part also talks about certainties and issues that make North Korea a worldwide concern. The final part looks at U.S. Legislative Authority and justification or otherwise of the legitimacy of U.S unilateral sanctions

Public Organization Review, Feb 1, 2021

Health insurance policies have become key social policy interventions incepted to extend healthca... more Health insurance policies have become key social policy interventions incepted to extend healthcare to vulnerable populations. In this vein, Ghana devised a health insurance scheme in the year 2003. However, there have been concerns about quality, value, satisfaction and trust regarding healthcare and insurance usage. Using data drawn from 345 participants, our study investigates these dimensions to empirically test their predictive effects on the actual usage of health insurance. Data analysis results using the Structural Equation Modelling technique confirmed these dimensions as predictors of intention and actual usage. Our study delineates the practical, theoretical and policy implications of the study findings.

Conflict Studies Quarterly, Oct 5, 2019

Burkina Faso has suffered the numerous cruelties of terrorism, Ansaroul terrorism inclusive. Prio... more Burkina Faso has suffered the numerous cruelties of terrorism, Ansaroul terrorism inclusive. Prior to their dormancy, two popular terrorist groups, the Ansaroul Islam and Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) had existed as the principal terrorists in Burkina and adjacent political entities. In some past years, the masters who had been behind the mask of violence in Burkina has been the Ansaroul. Believed to belong to a jihadist sect of the Mali rebellion and as well traced to the Al-Qa'ida, the Sahel area hosted this popular terrorist. The group has been responsible for far-reaching radicalism and cutting-edge violence within the Sahel, spreading its in luence on the neighboring Afro Islamic countries, especially Burkina Faso. Against this background, this paper conducts an examination of the Ansaroul Islam activities. Inferences are drawn from secondary sources, thus articles which has already an about the subject of interest. The study will route audiences through analysis of literature to present the implications of related policies, their signi icance and consistency in giving a deadly blow to terrorism in the said region. However, the unrevised terrorism policies which do not align with provisions in a holistic international framework lacks the ability to break the shackles of terrorism on Africa and the global anti-terrorist society. Efforts to combat terrorism will, in the bosom of weak policies, remain in idel to peace.

European Scientific Journal ESJ, 2019

In contemporary times, the most pressing issues threatening the tranquility and global stability,... more In contemporary times, the most pressing issues threatening the tranquility and global stability, particularly in Africa, are the heinous activities of terrorist groups. The word "terrorism" caught the world's attention through the 9/11 incident, although it has been in existence for centuries. There have been numerous definitions for the act of terrorism, yet there is no universally approved definition which is accepted by all countries. This article, therefore, seeks to elucidate terrorism from different perspectives and also elaborate on its causes as well. Most importantly, this article focuses on Al-Shabaab as a violent extremist group with an emphasis on their background, their violent activities, the recruitment process as well as their source of funding. Additionally, their interconnection with the Al-Qaeda group will be dealt with as well as how terrorism has negatively affected a lot of people through the spread of violence, fear, and instability throughout the regions of Africa. The Al-Shabaab terrorist group in Somalia is considered amongst the deadliest militant groups across the continent of Africa, after the Boko Haram terrorist group in Nigeria. Some of the heinous activities carried out by this Al-Shabab terrorist group comprises of intimidation, bombing, suicide attacks, kidnapping, and gunfire of unarmed innocent citizens both within and outside Somalia. The inception of Al-Shabaab was as a result of the power vacuum that was created in 1991 after the warlords were unsuccessful in bringing into being any governance system during the fall of the last Somalia central government. Owing to this power vacuum fabricated, it has therefore empowered the Islamic court's leaders to assume informal authorities in some parts of south-central Somalia. Despite the fact that the Islamic court defeated these warlords, they were eventually defeated on the grounds of a national security threat by Ethiopian forces invading Somalia.

AUSTRAL: Brazilian Journal of Strategy and International Relations, 2023

The Sahel area of West Africa has become the latest battleground for Al-Qaeda affiliated Jama`at ... more The Sahel area of West Africa has become the latest battleground for Al-Qaeda affiliated Jama`at Nusrat Al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State affiliated Islamic State in the Greater Sahel (ISGS). This piece, as far as possible, identifies the heightened atrocities perpetuated by both groups in the Sahel region. With little or no doubt, the strategies and ascendancy in atrocities orchestrated by the JNIM and ISGS could be largely hypothesized to have negative implications for Africa’s Sahel region (Chad, Mali, Niger, and Mauritania). As a matter of concern, the paper confirms the said hypothesis and finds that the activities of the two Jihad-descent groups pose adverse security, social and political ramifications for the Sahel region and beyond. With the theory of deprivation as the undergirding framework, the work explores how the lack of basic needs and legitimate entitlements of citizens have catalyzed the dominance of JNIM and ISGS in the Sahel. Aside from discussing the formation, events trends, atrocities, and strategies of JNIM and ISGS, the paper advances for swift, action-oriented, collective efforts of governments within the Sahel region. In order to restore Sahel’s stability, increased security collaboration and strengthening the tenets of good governance are some worthwhile recommendations postulated

Insight on Africa, 2023

The flare-up of hostilities in Ethiopia's Tigray district in November 2020 is simply the aftereff... more The flare-up of hostilities in Ethiopia's Tigray district in November 2020 is simply the aftereffect of a forced battle between so-called reformist Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's central government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). This previous revolutionary development ruled Ethiopian legislative issues for over 25 years before Abiy's rise to control of power in 2018. Numerous Ethiopians considered the TPLF's rule authoritative, and misconducts executed under its authority stirred up scorn in several groups. The fight additionally displays ethnic strains in the country, which have been exacerbated as of late as the nation goes through political and financial modifications. The advancing battle has effectively brought about outrage, expanded the flow of refugees, and stressed territorial relations. This research article provides an account of the origins of the TPLF and the Tigrayans, Eritrea's involvement in the conflict, the sources of tension, and the paths to war. Finally, the repercussions of Ethiopia's Tigray conflict and its corollaries on the Horn of Africa. Specifically, the article draws on the Protracted Social Conflict Theory to explain Ethiopia's Tigray conflict. The answer stipulates a hint at addressing the current problem.

Journal of Politics and Law, 2018

Economic sanctions are not only applied to countries in Africa by the United Nations (UN), the Eu... more Economic sanctions are not only applied to countries in Africa by the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) but also by the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as well. The African continent is considered to be the most affected in terms of the influences of more economic sanctions from the UN, EU, and the U.S than any other continent across the globe and these sanctions normally comes into force as a result of conflicts, civil wars and also unconstitutional overthrow of a constitutionally elected government. Also these sanctions come to serve as a punishment and a deterrent to those who deviate from or go against internationally agreed laws.Undeniably, in recent years economic sanctions have become more effective and an efficient known foreign policy tool used as the number one alternative to halt wars or military takeovers.Despite economic sanctions being widely accepted by the international community as t...

In view of the surge in retrogressive activism that has entwined and ensnared Mozambique from the... more In view of the surge in retrogressive activism that has entwined and ensnared
Mozambique from the war and postwar years, it becomes apparent that the Southern
African country has witnessed monumental hostility in its developmental strides. Of
profound and recent importance has been the bursting on to the political scene of the
Al Sunnah wa Jama’ah (ASWJ) terrorist sect whose lethal activities are having
menacing effects. Employing the qualitative research approach, this study thoroughly
examines not only the activities of the ASWJ terrorist group, but also the possible
push and pull factors contributing to the congealment of the group in the Republic of
Mozambique. The study reveals a confluence of push factors converging around land
disputes, citizen-state mistrust and dissatisfaction with land resettlement program.
Further, the study exposes a gamut of pull factors, including weak states and porous
borders. Study implications, future research possibilities and recommendations are
subsequently delineated.

Journal of Liberty and International Affairs, 2020

South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011 after nearly 40 years of civil war, was embroiled... more South Sudan, which separated from Sudan in 2011 after nearly 40 years of civil war, was embroiled in a new devastating conflict at the end of 2013. This happened when political disputes coupled with preexisting ethnic and political fault lines became brutal. This conflict has mostly targeted civilians and most often, ethnic groups, and warring parties have been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The conflict has resulted in a major humanitarian crisis, mass displacement and mass atrocities against South Sudanese citizens. Notwithstanding, instability in South Sudan has made the country one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian aid workers in the world, especially as majority of them have lost their lives during their operation. In view of this, the article seeks to interrogate the main driving forces that triggered the deadly conflict and also the ramifications brought upon the population as well as the country.

Jebat: Malaysian Journal of History, Politics & Strategic Studies, 2020

The activities of terrorist movements like the Boko Haram and the Al-Shabab in recent times have ... more The activities of terrorist movements like the Boko Haram and the Al-Shabab in recent times have dealt a hefty blow to the collective stability of the African continent and its multi-pronged socioeconomic fortunes. The ensuing debacles and the varying inundating levels of ignominy and infamy wreaked on Africa by these groups have spontaneously elicited reactions from the global community over the years. Though steady progress has been made in this regard, the swinging and vacillating strategies of the sect to adopting unconventional mediums to carrying out domestic and transnational attacks leaves much to be desired. Relying on secondary data, this study undertakes a comparative analysis of the Boko Haram and Al-Shabab. Through a review of existing documents, this article argues in line with policy ramifications that, in as much as policy homogeneity may be essential, and perhaps a sine qua non-alternative to be relied on in the quest for the fight against these antisocial incendiary sects, there is still less fruitful outcome and therefore necessitates the need for further policy options. In conclusion, the research equally entreats a neck turn consideration of experimenting with individual country-specific policy options as a way to fight terrorism, all within a much stronger broader international community framework. Until this is considered, terrorism may remain an albatross around the neck of Africa, and the international community whiles the fight becomes a façade.

Nigeria, a country with a prolonged history of instability, is the one on which Boko Haram waged ... more Nigeria, a country with a prolonged history of instability, is the one on which Boko Haram
waged its acts of terrorism. The implosion of the terrorist group Boko Haram has been one
of the biggest threats to Africa's most populated country in terms of intensity, organization,
and spread. Judging from the sophisticated nature of weapons and high-level intelligence
used in the various acts of violence waged by this terrorist group, it becomes clear that
it is operated through the motivation, material, and ideological aid obtained from parent
groups.
The acts of terror inflicted by the deadly group including displacement, abductions, and
death of innocent civilians have terrorized Nigeria and its entire society, making their
activities a subject of obsessive discussion among the international community at large.
The quick harsh response with which the global community of nations tried to tackle this
problem is indicative of the severity of the problem. In the face of the terrorist group’s
violence, following the unrest not only Nigeria and its surrounding countries, but also the
world at large, the United Nations (UN), along with the European Union (EU), and the
United States of America (USA), have imposed harsh targeted sanctions also known as
smart sanctions on the group, most importantly including travel bans on its associates and
asset freezing of its membership.This paper interrogates the Nigerian state and the international community’s response
in relation to analyzing the impact of sanctions placed on terrorist groups and their
effectiveness (or the lack of it). It concludes that unless the international community
concretely tackles and strengthen its resolve to ensure the strict application of punitive
measures, the effectiveness of sanctions would likely remain an illusion.