Africa is a beautiful continent with rich culture, natural wonders, and hardworking people. But not every part of the continent is peaceful or safe. Some countries are facing violent conflicts, terrorism, high crime, and political problems. These issues make some countries dangerous, unsafe, and hard to live in or visit.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the most unsafe and violent countries in Africa, based on recent reports from the Global Peace Index, the United Nations, and the U.S. Department of State. We’ll explain what makes these countries risky and include important facts, statistics, and links.
Contents
1. Somalia
Main Issues: Terrorism, civil war, piracy, weak government
Somalia has struggled with violent conflict for over 30 years. It is often seen as one of the most unsafe countries in Africa. The terrorist group Al-Shabaab regularly attacks cities, soldiers, and civilians. Somalia’s government is very weak, and pirates also operate in its coastal waters.
Global Peace Index (2024) Rank: 3rd least peaceful country globally
Homicide Rate: Over 35 per 100,000 people
US Travel Advisory: Level 4 – Do Not Travel
2. South Sudan
Main Issues: Civil war, ethnic violence, hunger crisis
Since it became independent in 2011, South Sudan has faced non-stop violent fighting between different ethnic and political groups. The conflict has killed thousands and forced millions to flee their homes.
Global Peace Index Rank: 4th least peaceful country
Homicide Rate: Around 13 per 100,000
Humanitarian Needs: 9.4 million people need help
See>>> The Safest Countries in Africa: Peaceful Places to Visit and Live
3. Central African Republic (CAR)
Main Issues: Armed groups, lawlessness, religious clashes
The CAR is rich in gold and diamonds but is very unsafe. Many parts of the country are controlled by rebel groups, not the government. There are frequent violent clashes between Muslim and Christian militias.
Global Peace Index Rank: 6th least peaceful globally
Homicide Rate: About 17.5 per 100,000
UN Report: 3.4 million people need aid
4. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Main Issues: Armed conflict, sexual violence, unstable regions
DRC is large and full of natural wealth, but it is one of the most dangerous and violent countries in Africa. Armed groups in the east commit rape, murder, and kidnappings, especially near mining areas.
Global Peace Index Rank: In the top 10 most unsafe
Homicide Rate: Around 13 per 100,000
UNICEF: DRC is one of the worst places for children
5. Mali
Main Issues: Terrorist groups, military coups, ethnic killings
Mali is another country battling serious violence. Terrorist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS attack civilians and soldiers. The central government has also experienced coups, adding to the instability. This has affected Mali, making it one of the poorest countries in Africa.
Global Peace Index Rank: 142/163
Civilian Deaths (2023): Over 1,000 killed
Homicide Rate: 11 per 100,000
6. Libya
Main Issues: Civil war, militias, kidnappings
Libya has been unsafe since the fall of dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Rival governments and armed groups continue to fight. Kidnapping for ransom, robbery, and violent clashes happen often.
Global Peace Index Rank: 151/163
US Travel Advisory: Level 4 – Do Not Travel
7. Nigeria
Main Issues: Boko Haram, banditry, ethnic and religious conflict
Nigeria is Africa’s most populated country but faces many unsafe situations. In the north, Boko Haram carries out violent attacks. In the northwest, armed bandits kidnap people. In the southeast, political groups clash with police and the army.
Homicide Rate: Around 34 per 100,000
Global Peace Index Rank: 144/163
Kidnappings (2023): Over 3,600 people
8. Burkina Faso
Main Issues: Terrorism, mass displacement, poor security
Once peaceful, Burkina Faso is now filled with violent terrorist attacks. Over 2 million people have been forced to flee due to attacks from Islamist extremists.
Global Peace Index Rank: 146/163
Major Attack (2023): Over 50 killed in a mosque
9. Sudan
Main Issues: Civil war, paramilitary violence, humanitarian collapse
Sudan fell into a deadly civil war in 2023, with two military factions battling for control. Cities like Khartoum have turned into war zones, and millions are running from the violence.
Deaths: Over 13,000 in one year
Displaced People: 8.4 million
10. Mozambique
Main Issues: Terrorism in the north, poverty, displacement
In Cabo Delgado, Mozambique’s northern region, violent Islamist groups have killed thousands since 2017. These attacks target villages, and many people are forced to live in camps.
Displaced People: Nearly 1 million
Homicide Rate: Around 4.5 per 100,000
Global Peace Index Rank: 123/163
Other Countries with Unsafe Areas
Ethiopia – Conflict in the Tigray and Amhara regions
Cameroon – Anglophone crisis and Boko Haram attacks
Algeria – Terror threats in remote areas
Tunisia – Rising political tensions
What Makes These Countries Dangerous or Unsafe?
The most unsafe and violent countries in Africa usually suffer from:
Terrorism – Attacks on civilians, soldiers, and places of worship
Civil War – Groups fighting for power cause long-term destruction
Crime – Kidnapping, robbery, and murder are common in some regions
Poor Law Enforcement – Police and army often lack training or equipment
Corruption and Weak Governance – Leaders may not protect the people
Conclusion
Africa has many peaceful and welcoming countries, but some parts are still unsafe due to war, terrorism, and high crime. Countries like Somalia, South Sudan, Nigeria, and the DRC face serious violence that affects millions of people. These problems also hurt business, tourism, education, and healthcare.
Understanding which countries are dangerous helps travelers, aid workers, and even investors to plan better and stay safe. It also reminds us that there is a great need for peace-building, better leadership, and global support.
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