Terrorism 'destabilizing’ entire regions - U.N. chief
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The resulting “Trauma from terrorism” hurts families and communities, and also destabilizes entire regions, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.

The UN chief made the remarks during his visit to Kenya, where he attended a conference on counter-terrorism.

Guterres noted an attack that happened in a Nairobi mall in January this year, killing 21 people and injuring scores others.

The U.N. chief also noted that the deteriorating situation in the Sahel and “increasing risks” in West Africa were also deeply concerning, amid ongoing attacks by armed militants in the Lake Chad region, central Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

In light of these developments, “there is an urgent need for the international community to support Member States in this region”, Guterres said, noting that the people of Africa “are on the front line of efforts to tackle terrorism and the spread of violent extremism”.

The 70-year-old welcomed the efforts by the continent to find solutions to terrorism, and also highlighted the “inspirational” role of women in prevention efforts.

He urged governments to ensure they come up with lasting solutions to the issues and also called for long-term political commitment from the international community.

“We must not allow terrorism to undermine the great progress that is being made on this continent.” the U.N. chief reiterated.

U.N. chief Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in the Sahel and “increasing risks” in West Africa.

U.N. chief Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in the Sahel and “increasing risks” in West Africa.