How JNIM Became One of the Most Powerful Militant Groups in West Africa

Over the past decade, Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin, commonly known as JNIM, has emerged as one of the most powerful militant networks operating across West Africa. Formed through the merger of several armed factions in 2017, the organization rapidly expanded its influence across Mali and neighboring countries. Analysts say its strength comes from a combination of local alliances, strategic leadership, and the ability to operate across vast and remote territories of the Sahel.