The Trans-Sahara Counter Terrorism Partnership (TSCTP)

The US government Trans-Sahara Counter Terrorism Partnership in Mali, Africa sought to increase civic participation, reduce inter-group tension and violence, and strengthen the resistance of vulnerable groups—such as young men—to recruitment by violent extremist organisations. Activities included radio programs, capacity building for local governments, reading programs, and micro-finance. Four Imams in Timbuktu participated and worked with program managers to broadcast messages of peace and tolerance over local radio stations.

Key takeaways

An evaluation of one of these programs in two neighbouring towns in northern Mali showed:

• Residents in Timbuktu who were exposed to the programming for up to five years displayed measurably altered civic behaviour and listening patterns in comparison with their counterparts in the control town
• However, there was little measurable difference between the groups in terms of their cultural identities and attitudes towards the West.
• While this study is unable to definitively prove a causal connection between programming and behavioural outcomes, it strongly suggests that the process of “winning hearts and minds” can be effective at certain levels but may require extended time and dedicated resources to generate higher-level results
• Strategic communication, such as messages broadcast through radio programming, can help foster positive social networks, provide opportunities for individuals to gain respect and recognition, and increase the circulation of moderate voices and perspectives.