West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE) was founded in 2014 as an independent regional organization focused on Preventing Violent Extremism and conflicts in West Africa. It was founded in response to the increasing numbers of youth succumbing to extremism in West Africa. 2014 marked the deadliest year for terrorism globally since September 11, 2001 Attacks. With over 7,000 lives lost, West Africa did not only experience extremist violence on the biggest scale, but it was also the deadliest region globally for terrorism fatalities. 

Our research and outreach programs are intended at uncovering the drivers of radicalization and violent extremism to support state and regional counter-terrorism policies and strategies. For more than 8 years we have worked with local communities, state and non-state actors to deepen understanding around violent extremism and its drivers and helped to build resilience against the threat. 

We have worked to dissuade 23 radicalized youth from travelling to join extremist groups and have empowered more than 6,600 youth and community representatives to serve as effective peace ambassadors for peace and resilience in their communities. Our experience in the region has taught us that context is fundamental to any effective intervention. As security in the region continues to change, it requires a dynamic, innovative and multifaceted approach to handle it. WACCE employs such approach in combination with relevant partnerships and local community collaborations.