8 most devastating terrorist attacks across Africa in 2024

According to the 12th annual Global Terrorism Index (GTI) report, fatal terrorist attacks in increased in 2024, with the number of countries experiencing attacks rising from 58 to 66.

This marks the first time in seven years that more countries saw a rise in terrorism than an improvement.

These attacks, carried out by extremist groups such as Boko Haram, Al-Shabaab, and Islamic State-affiliated militias, have resulted in significant loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and widespread fear in affected communities.

Islamic State (IS) and its affiliates remained the deadliest group, responsible for 1,805 deaths across 22 countries.

The four major terrorist groups—IS, JNIM, TTP, and al-Shabaab—were active in 30 countries, with fatalities attributed to them increasing by 11% to 4,204.

The rise in terrorism in Africa highlights the need for stronger regional security cooperation, effective counterinsurgency strategies, and international support to combat the growing extremist threat

The Sahel region, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has been particularly hard-hit, with jihadist groups intensifying their operations.

In Nigeria, terrorist activities continue to destabilize the northeastern region, while Somalia remains a focal point of Al-Shabaab’s insurgency.

The attacks also reflect the growing trend of extremist violence spreading to coastal West African states.

The GTI report highlights 10 of the deadliest terrorist attacks in 2024, with eight of them occurring in Africa.

Burkina Faso suffered the highest number of attacks, recording four incidents, while Nigeria and Niger each reported two attacks.

The table below outlines the most devastating attacks recorded on the continent.

The table highlights the number of deaths per attack across the affected regions, with Niger’s attack in Tahoua being the deadliest, followed by multiple incidents in Burkina Faso and Nigeria.

Beyond Africa, major attacks occurred in Russia and Iran in 2024.

In Moscow (March 22), gunmen killed 144 people at a concert hall, with IS-K claiming responsibility.

In Kerman, Iran (January 3), twin bombings at a Qassem Soleimani memorial left 95 dead and 284 injured, also linked to IS-K. These incidents highlight the group’s expanding reach beyond traditional conflict zones.

These incidents not only claim lives but also disrupt economies, displace populations, and challenge national security frameworks.

As African governments and international partners work to combat terrorism, understanding these tragic events is crucial in shaping counterterrorism strategies and fostering long-term stability.