Evaluation of effectiveness of counter-terror measures to national security in Kenya

Abstract

Terrorism is a phenomenon that has existed as a global security terror. The human cost of terrorism has been felt in virtually every corner of the globe. The main objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of counter-terror measures to national security in Kenya thus examining the changes and development of terrorist activities, why Kenya is a target by the terror groups, and the counter terrorist measures by the Kenyan government for security, including the impact of such counter-terror measures on the Kenyan citizens. More importantly, the study focused on the growth aspect of terrorism in Kenya while exploring different terror groups targeting Kenya internally and externally. The study was limited to survey research design, which was based on qualitative and quantitative research design. A survey questionnaire, Key informant interviews, desktop reviews and Focused Group Discussions with the Anti-terrorist unit commanders, National Police Service, Human Right Groups, NGOs, Faith Based Organizations, Scholars, interest groups, the National Government Representatives at the County among other stakeholders. The study was conducted in Lamu and Mombasa Counties. Quantitative and Qualitative data was obtained using both primary and secondary sources. Questionnaires, interview guides and focused group discussions was used to obtain both qualitative and quantitative on the dynamism of the terrorism threat in Kenya. The study found that trend of terrorism in Kenya has become more dynamic and that the greatest push factors for youth radicalization was unemployment. The trend in terrorism is majorly fueled by poverty and inequality which manifests in unemployment and lack of job opportunities. The study further finds that the counterterrorism strategies employed are ineffective and counterterrorism operations are poorly handled. Much more attention has to be paid to the youth by increasing opportunities for education, employment and political participation. More serious anti-corruption efforts are needed across the board. Policing approaches should be incorporated or married with counter- terrorism strategies so as to enhance performance and efficacy given the findings have revealed that the approaches are more effective and acceptable than counter-terrorism strategies.