United Nations Warns of “nuclear terrorism” in Africa

The United Nations has warned of evidence indicating that terrorist groups in Africa are making serious efforts to acquire nuclear capabilities, taking advantage of major technological advances within their ranks.

19 May, 2026 20:25

NEWS DESK

The United Nations said in a statement on Tuesday that emerging tools such as drones and artificial intelligence could make nuclear attacks more impactful.

According to the UN, the potential humanitarian, environmental, and economic consequences of a nuclear or radiological attack would be catastrophic, with effects extending across borders, thereby undermining international security and confidence in peaceful nuclear technology.

The risks include the use of so-called “dirty bombs,” attacks on nuclear facilities, the spread of stolen nuclear weapons, or the detonation of improvised nuclear devices.

Although no nuclear terrorist attack has occurred since nuclear technology was developed nearly 80 years ago, Mauro Medico, Director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, stated that the level of threat is now higher than ever due to the increasing accessibility of advanced technologies.

Medico added that terrorist groups are recruiting specialists, including experts in artificial intelligence, and have already used drones in their attacks.

He warned that “these developments could increase the likelihood of carrying out more sophisticated attacks, including the possible use of drones to deliver radioactive devices.”

ANHA