IMCTC Launches Sahel Countries Program to Bolster Counterterrorism Capacities

The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) on Monday officially launched the fourth round of the Sahel Countries Program in the Chadian capital, N'Djamena.

 Chad’s Minister of Public Security and Immigration General Ali Ahmat Aghabache and IMCTC Secretary-General Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi attended the launch ceremony along with several military and civilian leaders from Sahel countries and representatives from international and regional organizations and diplomatic bodies.

 In his opening remarks, Al-Moghedi emphasized that the program’s launch in Chad represents a strategic milestone in the coalition's efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, leveraging integrated mechanisms that address ideological, media, and military aspects while also combating the financing of terrorism. He emphasized the collaboration of member states as the best approach to achieving security and stability in the region.

 Al-Moghedi praised Chad’s pivotal role as an active partner in the fight against terrorism in Africa and its active membership within the coalition.

 The IMCTC secretary-general noted that the program is part of an ambitious plan launched by the coalition, which includes conducting 90 training programs for over 4,600 trainees along with 20 awareness programs in 15 countries. So far, 25 programs have been executed involving 284 trainees from 26 countries, he added.

 Aghabache delivered a speech on behalf of the armed forces minister, welcoming the launch of the quality program on Chadian soil. He praised the IMCTC’s role in supporting Sahel countries and enhancing their efforts to combat terrorism and its financing. He reaffirmed Chad’s commitment to strengthening international and regional cooperation in combating terrorism and its funding.