African officials are calling for stronger protection of critical infrastructure as terrorist groups increasingly target roads, airports, ports, power facilities and other assets essential to daily life and economic activity.

Speaking at the Fifth Nairobi Caucus in Kenya themed "Protecting Critical Infrastructure Systems and Public Spaces from Terrorism," Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Africa remains the global epicenter of terrorism, with critical infrastructure increasingly caught in the attacks.

"In 2026, the continent of Africa has suffered major terrorist attacks, including targeting critical infrastructure," Mudavadi said, noting that six of the 10 countries most affected by terrorism are in sub-Saharan Africa.

The two-day forum, hosted by Kenya's National Counter Terrorism Center and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, is focused on strengthening intelligence sharing, early-warning systems and coordinated responses.

UN Counter-Terrorism Center Deputy Director Steven Siqueira said protecting infrastructure is key to keeping economies running and public services operating, while Kenya's National Counter Terrorism Center Director General Kibiego Kigen called for stronger preparedness and more resilient infrastructure.

The meeting brings together African governments, security experts and international partners to develop practical measures to prevent attacks and ensure critical services can withstand growing terrorist threats.