The Sahel region has become a battleground not only between governments and militant groups, but also between rival extremist organizations. Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) are increasingly competing for territory, influence, and recruits. Their rivalry—driven by ideological differences and strategic ambitions—has intensified violence across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, further destabilizing an already fragile region.
Violence in the Sahel is increasingly shaped by a growing rivalry between two major militant organizations: Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS). While both groups operate across similar مناطق and share extremist ideologies, they are also engaged in a competition for influence, territory, and control over local populations.
This rivalry has transformed parts of the Sahel into a complex conflict zone where militant groups not only fight government forces but also clash with one another. Analysts say these internal divisions have intensified instability and contributed to the rise in violence across the region.
Ideological Differences
Although both JNIM and ISGS are rooted in extremist ideologies, they are aligned with different global networks. JNIM is affiliated with Al-Qaeda, while ISGS operates as part of the Islamic State's broader structure. These affiliations shape their strategies, messaging, and approaches to local populations.
The split between the two groups became more visible around 2019, when disagreements over leadership, tactics, and ideological direction intensified. JNIM has often emphasized building relationships with local communities, while ISGS has been associated with more aggressive and uncompromising approaches in certain areas. 0
Territorial Battles in the Sahel
The rivalry between the two groups is most visible in the tri-border region between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This area has become a key battleground where both organizations seek to establish dominance and control strategic routes.
Since around 2020, clashes between JNIM and ISGS have escalated, with both sides launching attacks to weaken each other's positions. These confrontations are part of a broader struggle to control territory, resources, and local populations. 1
In some regions, both groups operate in close proximity, creating overlapping zones of influence. This competition has led to shifting alliances, temporary coexistence in certain areas, and violent confrontations in others. 2
Impact on Regional Security
The competition between JNIM and ISGS has significant consequences for regional security. As both groups attempt to expand, they increase the frequency of attacks against military forces, government institutions, and sometimes civilian populations.
This dynamic complicates efforts by governments and international partners to stabilize the region. Instead of dealing with a single threat, security forces must navigate a fragmented landscape where multiple armed groups pursue competing objectives.
Experts warn that the rivalry could further destabilize the Sahel by intensifying violence and spreading conflict into new areas. As both groups seek to outmaneuver each other, the result is often increased insecurity for communities already facing humanitarian challenges.
A Fragmented Conflict Landscape
The ongoing struggle between JNIM and ISGS reflects a broader fragmentation within militant movements in the Sahel. While both groups share similar long-term objectives, their competition for power has created a more unpredictable and volatile conflict environment.
Understanding this rivalry is critical to analyzing the future of the Sahel conflict. As long as multiple armed groups compete for control, the region is likely to remain unstable, with shifting frontlines and evolving security threats.