Isis-linked groups extend hold in Africa

Islamic State’s affiliates in Africa, buoyed by significant victories, new alliances and shifts in strategy that have reinforced their position, are expanding across much of the continent.

After gains in Nigeria, the Sahel, in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Isis propaganda published by the group’s leadership in its Middle East heartland is increasingly stressing sub-Saharan Africa as a new front, which may compensate it for significant setbacks elsewhere.

Detailed accounts of internal debates in Nigeria, where Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap) recently routed Boko Haram, suggest a new emphasis by Isis in Africa on providing security and basic services. Though strategies differ according to local conditions, the bid to create zones