Africa is in the thralls of a growing specter of gender-based violent extremism. The role of women in violent extremism has grown in tandem with the spiraling threat of terrorism globally. West Africa is the most affected region by terrorism and gender-based violent extremism. The region has turned to be a terrorists’ playground—judged by the number of attacks launched by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), Boko Haram and other extremist groups. The well-coordinated attacks targeting foreigners and local elites have left behind a trail of deaths, injuries and destroyed property. The intensity and frequency of the terror attacks could have dire effects on the political stability and economic growth of the region.