Jean-Pierre Lacroix told the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) the fight against armed terrorist groups in Africa´s Sahel region has recently intensified.

The G5 Sahel Joint Force continues to improve its operations and it is a vital part of security responses to these armed groups, Lacroix said.

While there is progress, there are also many challenges, Lacroix added, calling for more predictable funding for such a mechanism and ensuring they can receive the necessary assistance.

Terrorist cells and armed groups have their range of action in vast areas of Sahel, according to UN reports.

Data from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Office indicated that as many as 5.4 million people fled their homes due to conflicts, climate change and drought, insecurity and violent extremism, among others.

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic and as food insecurity crisis increases, most of Sahel population depends on humanitarian aid.

mh/pll/mem / ifb