To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment his Department has made of the security situation in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Sub-Saharan Africa is facing a complex network of security challenges including a rising threat from violent extremist organisations and terrorism.

The UK is working with our partners across the region to promote regional stability and collaborate on peace support operations. Furthermore, we are increasing our efforts to support African-led multilateral initiatives, such as the Accra Initiative, to encourage African leadership in responding to security challenges. Our efforts are particularly focused on addressing the drivers of insecurity and instability and building resilience among partners’ armed forces.