Exploring violent extremism as an emerging threat to human security in southern africa using a hermeneutical phenomenological approach

Violent extremism has emerged as a major security threat in Southern Africa. Violent extremism has led to humanitarian crisis, causing widespread displacement of people, loss of life, and damage to infrastructure, and threatens to destabilize the region. The Southern African Development Community is a regional economic community comprising 16 member states in Southern Africa with a mandate to promote peace, security and stability in the region. However, the organisation faces several challenges in handling violent extremism in the region. The challenges include limited financial resources, weak institutional capacity, porous borders, political instability, and socio-economic challenges, particularly, poverty, inequality and unemployment. These challenges create fertile grounds for radicalization and violent extremism to thrive. To address these challenges, SADC needs to prioritise collaboration and coordination among Member States. This includes sharing information and intelligence, developing joint strategies and action plans, and implementing coordinated measures to address the root causes of violent extremism. SADC should further focus on mobilizing resources and technical assistance to support Member States in addressing violent extremism. Member states on the other hand should address the root causes of violent extremism, including poverty, unemployment, marginalization, and discrimination. This includes promoting inclusive economic growth, providing education and vocational training, and ensuring that marginalized groups have access to basic services and opportunities