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Islamic State, Al-Qaida 'On the March' in Africa

Jeff Seldin

   Western-backed efforts to counter terror groups across Africa are
   falling short, increasing the chances one or more affiliates of Islamic
   State or al-Qaida could try to carve out their own caliphate on the
   continent, according to the latest assessment by a top U.S. commander.

   The stark warning, shared with lawmakers Tuesday, builds on previous
   intelligence showing Africa-based groups have been growing more
   ambitious and more capable, with some increasingly bent on targeting
   the West.

   "Western and international and African efforts there are not getting
   the job done," Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander of U.S. Africa Command,
   told lawmakers regarding developments in West Africa and the Sahel.

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