Browsing by Author "Mulu, Francis"

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Assessing the Scope and Impact of Wildlife Trade and Poaching in Kenya: Conservation, Enforcement, and Socioeconomic Dimensions
    (JAIS, 2023-09) Cheloti, Becky Mulemia; Mulu, Francis
    The urgent need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing the complex challenges of wildlife trade and poaching in Kenya. Conservation efforts must be intensified to protect iconic species like elephants and rhinos, with a focus on enhanced anti-poaching measures and habitat preservation. The expansion of protected areas and the establishment of wildlife corridors are vital steps in safeguarding Kenya's rich biodiversity. Additionally, strengthening law enforcement agencies is imperative to combat wildlife trafficking effectively. This includes providing the necessary resources, training, and technology to law enforcement personnel while promoting transparency and accountability within these organizations. International collaboration is essential to address the transnational nature of wildlife crime networks. Socioeconomic dimensions cannot be overlooked, as poverty and limited alternative livelihoods were identified as significant drivers of poaching. Therefore, the study recommends the development of alternative income opportunities for communities living near wildlife habitats to reduce their reliance on illegal activities. Community engagement and the inclusion of local perspectives in conservation strategies are crucial for long-term success. In conclusion, the study's findings emphasize the need for a holistic approach that integrates conservation, enforcement, and socioeconomic development to effectively combat wildlife trade and poaching in Kenya. By addressing the root causes of these issues and strengthening collaborative efforts, Kenya can better protect its biodiversity and improve the well-being of its communities. The study recommends on a comprehensive approach to address wildlife trade and poaching in Kenya. It prioritizes increased investment in conservation, including anti-poaching efforts, habitat protection, and community programs to safeguard species like elephants and rhinos through the expansion of protected areas and wildlife corridors. Additionally, the study underscores the need to strengthen law enforcement with training and technology, emphasizing improved inter-agency communication and accountability to combat global wildlife trafficking networks. Moreover, it stresses poverty reduction and community engagement in economic development to discourage poaching, promoting community-based conservation to instill a sense of responsibility for wildlife preservation. This multifaceted strategy aims to tackle the complex challenges of wildlife conservation in Kenya.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Perspectives and Experiences of Women Involved in Peacebuilding Processes in Kenya
    (JAIS, 2023-11) Gichinga, Teresa Wangechi; Mulu, Francis
    The purpose of this study was to investigate experiences of women involved in peacebuilding processes in Kenya. The driving factor for the study was political instability and ethnic conflicts have plagued Kenya, especially since the post-election violence in 2007 and 2008, which claimed the lives of over a thousand people and displaced over 600,000. Many women have been subjected to sexual abuse, been forced to flee their homes, and lost loved ones as a result of these wars. Despite these setbacks, women in Kenya have participated in peacemaking initiatives. Their contributions to community building and healing have been invaluable. Women have played an important role in many aspects of peacebuilding, including but not limited to conflict resolution, mediation, negotiations, and the promotion of social cohesion and community development. The Women's Peace Caravan is an outstanding instance of women's participation in peacebuilding in Kenya. In 2008, a group of women who had been impacted by the violence that followed an election launched this effort. The Ladies’ Peace Caravan was a group of ladies from all over the country who set out on a journey to spread messages of peace and unity. The caravan went to the locations where the violence had taken place and hosted seminars and discussions on fostering peace. Through non-governmental groups, women have also contributed to fostering peace. For instance, the Kenyan Women's Peace Network (KEWOPA) is a network of organizations led by women that advocate for national stability. Conflict resolution, mediation, and promoting women's rights in peacebuilding are all areas in which KEWOPA has participated. Women peacebuilders in Kenya, however, encounter significant obstacles. In peacebuilding efforts, women frequently experience a lack of access to resources and prejudice because of their gender. Women rarely have a voice in formal peace talks and are routinely left out of decision-making procedures. The role of women in fostering peace is also underappreciated. The study findings revealed that Kenyan women participate in local peace committees, civil society groups, and community-based organizations to build peace. Women's perspectives and engagement in addressing the root causes of conflicts and fostering inclusive, long-term peace need to be highlighted. The study established that Kenyan women confront several peacebuilding challenges such as discrimination, marginalization, gender-based violence, and exclusion from decision-making which cause setbacks. If these trends continue, women's engagement may reduce violence and conflict, increase democracy, and improve social cohesion and reconciliation. The study recommends the need to involve Kenyan women in peacebuilding outreach and support for women's organizations and civil society groups, training and capacitybuilding, and efforts to remove systemic impediments to women's participation in decisionmaking.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    The Relationship between the Integration of Maritime Security and Blue Economy Development in the Kenyan Coast
    (Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies, 2023) Munyao, Andrew Isoongo; Mulu, Francis
    The study examined the complex relationship between maritime security and blue economy growth along the Kenyan Coast, rich in marine resources. Maritime security, including fighting piracy, illegal fishing, and other hazards, is essential to marine safety. The blue economy, which used marine resources sustainably, offered economic growth and diversification. The impact of marine security integration on blue economy development was crucial for informed policymaking, sustainable resource management, and coastal economic growth. The study unraveled the dynamics, challenges, and opportunities inherent in this relationship, providing valuable insights for the holistic development of Kenya's coastal areas. The study objectives evaluated the impact of integrated maritime security measures on the overall security environment along the Kenyan Coast, examined key indicators of blue economy development in the Kenyan Coast and identify challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of maritime security and blue economy development. Some issues of maritime security integration and blue economy growth along the Kenyan Coast were unexplored. These included the effects of marine security measures on diverse blue economy segments, local community socio economic impacts, and blue economy sustainability. Maritime security measures' effects on marine ecosystems and biodiversity needed attention. Literature review explored the impact of integrated maritime security measures on the overall security environment, key indicators of blue economy development, and challenges and opportunities associated with their integration. The study utilized a mixed-methods research design, incorporating qualitative methods such as in depth interviews and quantitative methods like surveys. Document analysis and GIS mapping provided additional insights. The study revealed security improvements, blue economy growth, and resource and coordination issues. Synergies between marine security and blue economy efforts were found. Integrated maritime security measures improved Kenyan Coast security. The study recommends on patrols and surveillance to reduce maritime risks. Maritime security organizations should receive advanced surveillance technology, well-equipped vessels, and training. Government organizations, private businesses, and local communities should collaborate to address coordination and resource restrictions. Develop marine security agency and stakeholder capabilities. The latest security threats and technologies require training, knowledge sharing, and skill development. The study found marine security enhances blue economy activities. Blue economy development and resource sustainability should be linked by policy. Blue economy activities include aquaculture and ecotourism. Policymakers should coordinate marine security and blue economy efforts to protect Kenyan Coast economic activity.