Abjua, Nigeria—From November 28 to 29, 2017, the UN Office of the Special Adviser on Africa (OSAA) held an Expert Group Meeting on “The role of African Civil Society Organization in Preventing Violent Extremism in Africa” at the Sheraton Hotel. This was held in collaboration with the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development (SCDDD). Dr. Taj Hamad, secretary general of UPF-International, was asked to attend as a speaker.
The experts from different expertise and backgrounds explored ways to address and overcome violent extremism in Africa. It was evident in the discussion that education is important as a preventative. However, in addition partnerships are needed among government entities, faith-based organizations, NGOs, business leaders, and civil society. The chairman of SCDDD, Ibrahim Gambari, is a well-known advocate for moderation and partnership with a long history of working in places of conflict such as Darfur. The panels discussed how to amplify partnerships and efforts to overcome extremism and enhance effectiveness, capacities, and international support. This gathering of experts was beneficial in solidifying the objectives and specific methods to overcome this pressing problem.