Impact of terrorism on the society: The Kenyan experience

Abstract

The global concern over the threat of terrorism by physical destruction and losses, deaths,suffering to humanity, economic loss, insecurity, and the general challenge to social order and polity in the society cannot be underscored. As most countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are churned incivil conflicts, Kenya has remained relatively peaceful for decades and played host to millions of refugees fleeing neighboring countries. However, since 1998, terrorism-related activities have been on the rise in the country posing a major threat to national security and development. The impact of terrorism cuts across social, cultural, economic and political lens of the society. The nature of terrorist activities in Kenya has been changing and escalating in magnitude, leaving many innocent citizens as victims, while in some incidences, the country held at ransom by the terror groups. With over 15 years of experience on terror attacks, Kenya is becoming more vulnerable and easy target for terror groups. This paper provides a descriptive analysis of the experiences, challenges and lessons learnt from the recurrent incidences of terrorism in Kenya. Despite efforts made bygovernment and other agents to curb the menace, much is yet to be achieved. The authors have highlighted inadequate capacity; lack of preparedness; poor co-ordination and strategy; and information faults as some of the major shortfalls. It is our conclusion that despite the threats posed by terror activities, the Kenyan society in general seem not to be learning a lesson and if so, with reactive rather than pro-active approach. The paper recommends that for Kenya to achieve its efforts in combating terrorism and terror-related activities, well co-ordinated, multi-sectoral and pro-active measures should be espoused and implemented from the grassroots (county) to national government level. Besides, enhancement of national security to deal with terrorism and emergencyhandling capacity should be given priority