WACCE is an independent regional security research organization focused on uncovering the underpinnings of radicalization and violent extremism in West Africa. Our research and advocacy works are intended at supporting state and regional counter terrorism policies and strategies.
The West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE) was established in 2014 to prevent violent extremism and conflicts in West Africa. The organization was established in response to the rising number of youth committing extremism, which was the deadliest year for terrorism globally since the September 11, 2001 attacks. WACCE’s research and outreach programs aim to understand the drivers of radicalization and violent extremism to support counter-terrorism policies. Over the past nine years, WACCE has worked with local communities, state and non-state actors to understand violent extremism and build resilience. They have dissuaded 23 radicalized youth from joining extremist groups and empowered over 9,600 youth and community representatives.