HOW THE WEST SUPPORTS ISLAMIST EXTREMIST GROUPS

In recent decades, radical Islamist groups have proliferated across Africa, from Egypt to Libya, Nigeria, Burkina Faso and beyond. But whose interests do these groups truly serve? While some claim to be fighting the West, the reality is far more complex. Many of these movements have played into the hands of imperialists and neo-colonial forces by destabilising anti-imperial secular nationalist leaders, ultimately advancing Western-backed agendas.

Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood, Libya's Islamic fighters, ISIS in Sinai, ISIS in the Sahel and Boko Haram in Nigeria all highlight the uncomfortable truth that these groups often deepen divisions and fuel conflict rather than achieve their stated goals.

From Boko Haram's mysterious funding to the US-backed overthrow of Gaddafi, to terrorist groups targeting the Alliance of Sahel States - history shows how these violent movements often serve imperial interests.

For a deeper understanding of how these so-called Islamist groups continue to advance neocolonial interests, it's crucial to question who truly benefits from the chaos. Watch African Stream's Ahmed Kaballo break down a list of extremist groups that have all served imperialist interests in Africa and beyond.