RP-Department of Conflict Resolution and International Relations

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Engendering Cooperatives to Address Structural Violence among the Maasai of Kajiado Central Sub-County, Kenya.
(AJCDT, 2019) Wambua, Faith Mbulwa; Hamasi, Linnet
Structural violence in the form of gender inequalities is reproduced by well-meaning cooperatives that fail to consider resource access and ownership dynamics in communities. In many patriarchal communities resources are gendered, creating boundaries for these genders that give them power. Among the Maasai, milk and its products belong to women as the cattle belong to the men. Rapid urbanization and climate change, seems to have led to loss of men’s ability to fulfil their provider societal expectation, as their herds had become smaller and could not be sold with ease as they provided a constant income from milk sales in cooperatives. This study sought to answer the question of how engendered cooperatives address structural violence in Kajiado Central Sub-county. The study utilized descriptive survey research design which allowed for the use of mixed methods approach. The milk cooperatives were purposively sampled while the respondents were randomly and purposively sampled to describe and compare the benefits derived from cooperative membership and nonmembership. It was established that women’s space in the livestock production industry had improved tremendously with the introduction of the cooperatives. Women were earning a steady income from sale of milk. However, the change in the power relations between Maasai men and women resulted in vulnerable Maasai men who indirectly engaged in the milk business considered a female domain to mitigate their societal expectations. Those who felt that they could not be engaged in that space, became physically violent, neglected their duties or divorced and separated from their spouses. In conclusion, cooperatives are critical empowerment tools that need to comprehensively empower all. Engendering cooperatives should move beyond tokenism to critically reviewing gender identities, power relations and roles. This would, expose diverse agencies and vulnerabilities hence a comprehensive empowerment.
Strategies Used By Mpesa Agents and Their Effectiveness in Deterrence of Counterfeit Bank Notes Fraud in Nairobi City County
(International Academic Journals, 2019) Kimani, John Muinde; Sirera, Merecia
M-pesa is a mobile money transfer and agent banking system that has become popular over the years due to its easy and cheap access to financial services, especially to the middle and lower classes of the society. However, this type of service has lately been threatened by many cases of counterfeits in Bank notes and fraudulent transactions which ultimately challenges the effectiveness of the strategies used to deter counterfeits. The study employed descriptive survey design and targeted population was M-pesa agents, police officers, Safaricom, and the Banking Anti-fraud unit in Nairobi City County. Using both Purposive and Simple Random sampling techniques the sample size of 109 was drawn. To collect data for the study, both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Descriptive Analysis was used to analyze the data. The study revealed that there were fraud-related challenges deterring M-pesa agents in countering fake bank notes in their operation, the prevalence of these challenges in the deterrence of counterfeit notes was found to be very high in Mpesa agent operation. Lack of skills and detection Kits were the main challenges facing Mpesa agents in the deterrence of counterfeit banknotes fraud. Other challenges facing Mpesa agents in the deterrence of counterfeit banknotes fraud includes Poor enforcement and coordination mechanism, easy counterfeited Security features on bank and Lack of advanced technology. Study further revealed that only a few Mpesa agents use detectors due to their high prices of acquiring the device. Those had employed the use of detectors to counter fake money in their operation said that this method was effective. Mpesa Agents are looking much on training so as to be in a position to recognize the fake money. Safaricom officials are working hard to ensure that the challenges to the deterrence of fake bank notes comes to an end by doing Monitoring, coordinating and doing reviews of their agents. Mpesa agents are continuously reviewing and improving on their internal controls such as surveillance and internal audit, primarily in the defense against fraud. There was a strategy to increase funding for advance equipment and technology and also there was hope for Safaricom’s mobile money agents were to start using photos to identify those withdrawing or depositing money on the M-Pesa platform to curb fraud. Police officers were found to co-ordinate with the Law enforcement to end the challenges to the deterrence of fake bank notes. The study recommended the central bank of Kenya to research and develop new notes with innovative security features that are both easy to check and hard to counterfeit. The study recommends further research to be done to establish other challenges other than deterrence of counterfeiting that is facing Mpesa business in Nairobi City County.
Military Integration of Armed Groups as a Conflict Resolution Approach in Africa: Good Strategy or Bad Compromise?
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2019) Kamais, Cosmas Ekwom
This paper examines the integration of armed groups into security sector of a country, especially the military, as an approach to peace building. It takes an overview of such approaches in South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Central African Republic (CAR). The paper argues that while such an approach is good for peace’s sake, it usually fails to attain peace in the long term due to its rushed conceptualization and implementation, lack of sufficient resource support, lack of political will, vested interests by the armed groups and external actor, among other reasons. Furthermore, the paper notes that integration leads to disaffection among the rank and file of the national military; since some of the rebel elements become their seniors without proper qualifications. The battle animosities and suspicion tend to persist even after the integration. All these are factors that are likely to lead to breakdown of a peace agreement; and eventual resumption of conflict with formation of splinter factions of the integrated rebels, as is the case with National Congress for the Defence of the People (CNDP) elements in DRC who mutinied and formed M23 movement. In advancing the argument of failures in military integration as a conflict resolution strategy, the paper glances back at the Montevideo convention on the roles and obligations of states. It points out an interesting line of thought that states engage with states and not non-states. Thus, engaging with armed groups runs the risks of recognition and legitimization of armed groups and may lead to more demands. Such engagements also risk sending the wrong message that “violence pays” and this can lead to formation of more armed groups to agitate for their interests. However, the paper recognizes that if post conflict integration of armed groups into security structures of a country is done properly and with sufficient support, it is likely to lead to long term peace as is the case in post-genocide Rwanda. This is especially in times of conflict where alleviation of human suffering is primary. The paper concludes with the call to re-evaluate the approaches of integration of armed groups into the security structure in a wholistic manner as part of the security sector reforms (SSR). And since every country’s situation is different in terms of conflict history and culture, a fit-all template is not feasible and thus integration approaches need to take these diversities into consideration.
Resource-based conflict on women entrepreneurs in open air markets of Kisii County, Kenya
(Royallite Global, 2020) Ogeto, Grace; Ogwora, Eric Thomas; Hamasi, Lynnet
Resource-based conflicts are prevalent in open air markets. These conflicts could be physical, natural, financial, environmental and social. This study however, sought to investigate the challenges women entrepreneurs experience due to lack of water and poor sanitation; to determine the kind of conflict that has emanated due to water crisis. The use of questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were employed to solicit relevant information from the respondents. The sample frame was 300 women entrepreneurs from the four purposively picked open air markets, as per Krechie and Morgan table and explored four markets of Daraja Mbili, Nyakoe, Suneka and Riosir. Information collected was analyzed using excel in terms of tables, graphs and pie charts. The findings clearly indicated that there is a serious water shortage and supply coupled with poor sanitation in the county especially in open air markets. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the county should seek for partnerships to assist and harvest rainy water in all open-air markets.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Intelligence Gathering and Sharing (IGS) in Countering
(IJIRAS, 2020) Wanderi, Simon Mwangi; Mwangi, Susan Waiyego; Wasonga, Joseph
Abstract: Despite Kenya’s continuous efforts to streamline intelligence gathering and sharing (IG & S) to help curb transnational terrorism, debates continue to range on its effectiveness within the context of increased global terror threats. The purpose of this paper is to appraise the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and sharing as a counterterrorism strategy in Kenya. The paper begins by identifying main types of intelligences applied to curb transnational terrorism in Kenya; progresses to assess the contribution of different types of intelligence in curbing transnational terrorism in Kenya; analyze the effectiveness and or ineffectiveness of intelligence gathering and sharing in curbing transnational terrorism in Kenya; and finally examines the challenges undermining the use of intelligence in curbing transnational terrorism. An exploratory research design was applied where data was collected and analyzed using the mixed methods approach from disciplined and civilian components. Findings revealed that most of Kenya’s Intelligence gathering and sharing (henceforth abbreviated as IG & S) use different types of intelligence. IG & S agencies largely handle human intelligence and signals intelligence to confront transnational terrorism. The use of IG & S is fundamentally contributing to the fight against terrorism in the country but it is confronted by several conspicuous challenges that need to be addressed. The study concludes by noting that while efforts at reinvigorating IG & S have borne fruits more needs to be done especially with regard to precision of the target of anticipated attack and timeliness of the intelligence gathered and dispatched to other security agencies.
Counter-Terrorism Measures andHuman Rights Protection in Kenya
(IJCAB Publications, 2021) Mutungi, Stephen Kimathi; Mulu, Francis
Many counter-terrorism measures enacted by states have been criticized for violating human rights. This study soughtto assess the Kenya’s counter-terrorism framework to ascertain whether the established counter-terrorism measuresviolate or adhere to the protection of human rights. The study adoptedan exploratory research design to assess the counter-terrorism measures and alleged human rights violation in Kenya. The target population wasthe national security organs, counter-terrorism agencies, civil societies championing human rights protection, securityenforcers and watchdog bodies. The sample of 200 respondents and informants was drawn from the National Assembly, Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, the International Federation for Human Rights, UN Counter-Terrorism Centre and Amnesty International Kenya. A stratified and purposive sampling technique wasemployed in selecting the respondents and informants during the study. The findings of the study established various stick and carrot counter-terrorism strategies used by organizations, government,and security apparatusin Kenya.These strategies are faced by severalchallenges. A number of these measures violate human rights. There are however, some counter terrorism strategies that uphold human rights. The counter-terrorism strategies that the government can adopt in respect of human rights to include youth empowerment and employment, enhance surveillance and intelligence gathering, stop renditions and use of force, proper investigations, uphold human rights and rule of law and public education, awareness,and participation. Thestudy recommends government to adopt counter-terrorismpromote human rightsprotection. Further, the study recommends that the governmentsneedto create public awareness and participation in counter-terrorism strategies and measuresto build public confidence on itsefforts to fight terrorism.
Border Security Management and State Security: a Case Study of Kenya and Somalia Border Relations (1991-2017)
(Traektoriâ Nauki = Path of Science, 2021) Akenga, Reuben; Kigen, Morumbasi; Handa, Stephen
The porous border of Kenya-Somalia has always been problematic to the Kenyan government, ever since the Somali government’s fall in 1991. This study was based along the Kenya-Somalia boundary in Mandera County. The study examined border security management and state security between Kenya-Somalia from 1991- 2017. One specific objective guided it: To, identified cross-border security threats along with the Kenya-Somalia border. The study applied theories of structural realism and border security theory/ psychoanalytic theory. The study was guided by descriptive survey research design and experimental research designs. This research used several sampling strategies: convenience, systematic, snowball, random sampling, and purposive techniques. The researcher selected a sample size of 398 that comprised heads of families. Further, 85 critical informants of private and public responders were chosen from the two case studies. Primary information was gathered using FGDs, survey tools such as questionnaires and observations and interviews. On the other hand, secondary data is retrieved through relevant articles and publication content analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics proved vital in analyzing preliminary information, while content analysis was utilized when analyzing qualitative data. Tables and figures presented the data analyzed. The study established that 70% of the respondents stated that terrorism was a critical security threat along the KenyaSomalia border. The researcher was informed of a newly emerging strategy employed in terrorism, through which the beasts of burden( donkey) has made the war against terror more complex. The donkey, a domesticated animal, is used by man as a helper; however, the latest creative (mis) use of the beast of burden for terrorism has emerged as a critical concern to the security apparatus.
Civil-Military Cooperation of African Mission in Somalia as Tool of Peace-building in Kismayo District, Lower Jubbaland, Somalia (2011-2020)
(RSIS, 2021) Muchemi, Moses Kamau; Ichani, Xavier Francis
The conflict in Somalia presents a typical example of crisis where sometimes the international response is at odd with the wishes of local administration and community. Whereas debate on the most appropriate and sustainable approach to resolving complex conflict like the one in Somalia continues, Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) has emerged as a key determinant of successful peacekeeping operation. Whereas the scope of activities under the rubric of CIMIC is this article analyzed SSR carried out by AMISOM troops in Kismayo District of Somalia from year 2011 to 2020 as a thematic area of security enhancement. The study was anchored on liberal peacebuilding, state building and democratization theories. The target population of the study included residents of Kismayo district entailing community leaders, humanitarian workers, civil society, Jubbaland Security Forces (JSF) and AMISOM troops operating in the district. Onwuegbuzie and Collins (2007) typology of determining sample size in social science research was used to arrive at a sample size of 200 respondents. Primary data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires, interviews guide and Focused Group Discussions guide. Secondary data was sourced from published books, e-books, journals, reports, newsletters and conference papers. Collected data was grouped, corroborated, and presented using both quantitative and the qualitative research techniques in themes corresponding the objectives of the study. The study found out that 97% of Kismayo residents felt that AMISOM CIMIC program had reduced conflicts in the district, 83% felt that the security sector was effective in ensuring security and safety of the population. The study also found that demobilization, disarmament and reintegration CIMIC program had reduced chances of violent clashes in Kismayo by 89% chance. AlShabaab terror gang continued to threaten the peace efforts in Kismayo. The study recommends that more donor funding be channeled to Federal Governments of Somalia so that they develop strong security sector capable of defeating peace spoilers such as Al-Shabaab.
Prevalence of Improvised Explosives Devices and Related Terrorist Attacks in Garissa County, Kenya (2017-2021)
(Path of Science, 2021) Mwinga, Samson Njeru; Ichani, Xavier Francis
There has been a steady rise in the prevalence and frequency of improvised Explosives Devices (IED) to execute terror attacks in Kenya in the recent past. This has resulted in increased loss of lives and massive property destruction, among other negative impacts of terrorism. The purpose of this article was to ascertain the prevalence of IEDs, hotspots, targets of attack, the distribution of the attacks over the years and the geolocations of deployed IEDs and related terrorist attacks in Garissa County, Kenya. The target population was serving members of the National Police Service (NPS), civil society organizations (CSO), national government administrative officers (NGAOs) and members of the local community. The researcher adopted a descriptive survey research design. Mixed sampling methods were adopted. Stratified sampling was used to cluster members of NPS, according to their Services which include: Kenya Police, Administration Police and Directorate of Criminal Investigation. Purposive sampling was used to select Sub-counties for the study and identify critical informants from CSO, NGAO and members of local communities. Questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions and key informants’ interviews guides were used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed by the use of simple descriptive statistics like percentages, frequencies. In contrast, qualitative data were analyzed using open coding to generate themes that the researcher analyzed using thematic analysis. The results were presented using tables, pie charts, bar graphs, and narratives. The study observed that Garissa County, Kenya, had not been spared by the brunt of the IED menace mainly orchestrated by the Al-Shabaab terrorist group. The study further noted that IEDs kill thousands every year, inflict grievous physical injuries, cause dire psychological harm, spread extreme fear, and disrupt communal economic activities. IEDs mainly target security forces and critical national infrastructure members, and most often than not, civilian casualties have been reported. Moreover, IEDs are relatively cheap and easy to assemble. They can also be assembled anywhere and from various materials, including commercial explosives used in construction, mining, and manufacturing. Therefore, the study will add practical value to the Kenya security agencies security operations preparedness body of knowledge. This is expected to guide them in developing effective and efficient Counter IED policies, strategies, and guidelines to enhance the efforts to combat this security menace.
Security Management and Private Security Companies in Kenya: A Case Study of Kamukunji in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(African Journal of Emerging Issues, 2021) Burudi, Zachariah M.; Muna, Wilson
Purpose: The contemporary world is experiencing economic ‘melt down’ and globalization has exported crime and other vices leading to an upsurge in crime that challenges security agents. This trend has led to a strain on state security agencies, compromising their performance and creating gaps. In Kenya, since the KDF entered Somalia in pursuit of Al Shabaab insurgents, the attacks by the insurgents to Kenyan soft targets have been enormous. The pressure on security agents coupled with their low number has led to state fragility within the borders which necessitates presence of Private Security Companies (PSCs) to bridge the gap. This study sought to investigate the effects of PSCs on security management in Nairobi. The general objective of this study was to establish the effects of PSCs in Security Management in Nairobi. The specific objectives were to; =establish how capacity of PSCs affects security management, to investigate how vulnerabilities of PSCs affect security management and examine how organizational structure of PSCs affects security management. This study focused on Kamukunji Sub County of Nairobi City County which harbours Eastleigh, a very fast growing business hub in Nairobi suburbs that has attracted traders and other opportunists. Methodology: This study employed both the Integrated Threat Theory and the New Public Management Theory model. Integrated Threat Theory fundamentally highlights conditions that lead to perceptions of threat, which in turn affect attitudes and behaviour. This theory however only creates conditions for the response but has a gap in how this can be replicated in a number of areas or regions. To address the gap, the study focused on New Public Management Theory model that is designed to decentralize the mode of state operations. This can be achieved through devolving security management activities to PSCs. This study used a descriptive survey research design. To collect the relevant data for the study, the researcher used a structured questionnaire that was administered purposively. This was entered into a program and developed into a database from where it was analysed by use of measures of central tendency and central variability. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to discuss the findings of the study. The sample population that constituted 84 respondents comprised 65.5% male respondents and 34.5% female respondents. From the findings, there was variation of 37.4% on Security management in Nairobi that could be attributed to the influence of capacity, vulnerability and organization structure of PSCs. Recommendations: It is recommended that, the Private Security Regulator sets minimum academic entry level for PSCs, set and enforce a standardized training curriculum for all PSCs including how to handle firearms, identify the minimum equipment that is required for running a PSC and the required competency in handling the equipment and standardize the remuneration packages for the PSC personnel. The National Intelligence Services (NIS) should cultivate a structured engagement of PSCs to positively vet and build their capacity to enhance counter terrorism strategies. PSCs should be embedded in the ‘Nyumba Kumi’ initiative to assist the local administration in the fight against crime.
Adoption of Community Security Initiatives against Protracted Insecurity in Laikipia North, Kenya. Journal of Research on Humanities and Social Sciences
(IISTE, 2021) Macharia, Hannah M.; Linnet, Hamasi; Makokha, Kibaba
This article interrogates the underlying factors that cause communities residing in areas affected by communal conflicts in Laikipia North, Kenya, to embrace community security initiatives as a way of addressing protracted insecurity. In the context of peripheral territories such as Laikipia North, security as a right is contested due to factors such as protraction of insecurity, civilian militarization, and overall absence of the state as a security provider. Critical to the study is the understanding that the state as a political entity is impacted by a myriad of geo-political, security and socio-economic forces. These geo-political, security and socio-economic forces may compromise the functionality of the state as far as fulfilling its mandate to the citizens is concerned. In this regard, the adoption of community security initiatives raises fundamental questions as to whether the state has failed to deliver on its mandate of providing security, given that Kenya is a functioning state. This phenomenological study aimed at examining the underlying forces that inform internal security experiences among communities in communal conflict regions. Specifically, the study explored the post-2010 factors in relation to state of (in)security in Laikipia County. The study used qualitative approach in which data was collected using FGDs, interviews and observation checklist. Data was analyzed thematically in line with the objectives of the study.
Impact of China‟s Monetary Aid on Kenya‟s Public Debt Stock
(IJRISS, 2021-10) Nyaberi, Siocha Justin; Ichani, Francis; Omagwa, Job
t: The purpose of the study was to examine the impact of China’s Monetary Aid on Public Debt. The key literature reviewed from various sources showed that a number of China’s monetary aid in form of concessional loans, grants and interest free loans had great impact on the public debt many SubSaharan African countries, Kenya being the classic example under study. Realism theory was used to theoretically analyse the study in the behaviour of China’s aid to Kenya as largely selfseeking. The study adopted an exploratory research design. The target population was limited to two Kenyan government ministries, IR scholars and economic experts and the embassy of the Peoples’ Republic of China in Kenya, the total population under study was 700. This study applied purposive sampling technique in selecting a sample size of 70 respondents. Documents, questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. The study found that monetary aid from China as concessional loans, grants and interest free loans have direct positive impact on the Kenya's public debt to a large extent when measuring it through the real GDP growth. The study findings established that China’s aid in form of concessional loans do not only come with a tag of ‘zero-or-no interest loans but also are attractive for their non-conditionality to the recipient countries hence preferred to those others from OECD-DAC which have constant regulations. The study recommended that the government of Kenya to reduce its external borrowing and embrace savings, external debts require consistence debt servicing unlike debts from domestic borrowing. The study further recommended that Kenya should reconsider its competitive advantage in manufacturing, sisal, tea, leather and coffee exports to the Chinese mainstream economy so as to meet the aspect of fair and balance of trade. An area for further study would be on the Debt-Trap Diplomacy claims associated with China aid policies to Sub-Saharan African countries.
Women, Patriarchy and Conflict Resolution in Turkana County, in Kenya
(CEDRED, 2022) Mukoshi, Lyndsey; Hamasi, Linnet
Women have been socialized for peace building at the informal level where their role as peace builders is being recognized, most of their activities took place through grassroots organizations due to their lack of access to formal participation since they still lack support. This marginalization hinders efforts to build sustainable peace and achieving stability for communities in the country. The study focused on women from Nawuiyapong in West Pokot and Turkana Lorengippi in Turkana County communities on the migration corridor in North West part of Kenya. The objectives of this study were to: assess the contribution of the women in conflict resolution in Turkana County, examine the strategies women used in peace building initiatives and identify the various ways to curb the challenges faced by women in peace building in Turkana County. The study utilized the Feminist Standpoint theory. The study employed qualitative research technique. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the study sample. The target population included 122 people of various levels. The analysis of data was using basic descriptive narrative. The data collected was analyzed and processed using various statistical tools like the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) to generate descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages as well as inferential statistics such as one sample t-test and linear regression to test for the relationship between the dependent and independent variables at 95% confidence level. Thematic analysis was however used to analyse the gathered qualitative data. The study established that women in Turkana County contributed to conflict resolution through numerous ways like educating for peace at the grassroots as well as lobbying and advocacy for the equitable distribution of resources. The study also showed that women had specific strategies like mobilization, lobbying and gender sensitization for engaging in peace-building within the County. However, it also showed that there were largely excluded from peace and security processes in Kenya and the world at large despite their efforts in preserving social order. The study lastly established that women in Turkana County used numerous ways to curb the challenges they faced. The study concludes that even though women contribute to conflict resolution, this contribution is however dismal. It is therefore, the recommendations of this study that the government and other stakeholders find ways of helping women from Turkana County in their efforts to engage in peace-building initiatives.
Rationale of the African Union’s Right to Intervene in Regional Conflicts: Case of South Sudan
(African Interdisciplinary Studies Association, 2022) Adiele, Becky Udochukwu; Ichani, Xavier; Hamasi, Linnet
The right to intervene is one of the unique principles of the African Union as an international organization. Specifically, the study sought to analyze the rationale behind the principle of the right to intervene, in terms of what the original drafters envisioned as the conceptualization. The context of South Sudan conflict is mentioned to better understand the phenomena and apply it in a real time situation. This study utilized the qualitative approach, securing primary and secondary data from interviews conducted on AU peace and security experts. Secondary data entailed the review of journal articles, books and policy documents. The findings highlights that the right to intervene as envisioned in the Constitutive Act was primarily military intervention. However, with regards to recent practices by the AU and other relevant literature on the matter, the right to intervene is seen to encompass various forms and levels of intervention including military intervention; diplomatic peace processes; and sanctions, so long as the AU does not imitate the principle of non-interference like its predecessor, the OAU, and watch as humanitarian crisis escalates in the continent. Recommendations highlights employing an inter-agency coordination approach among the relevant stakeholders to resolve the many controversies associated with the right to intervene, starting with better mechanisms in place to guide conceptualization of the right to intervene.
Community-Based Strategies of Controlling Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation in West Pokot County, Kenya
(CEDRED, 2022) Nyamohangah, Matiko Chris; Hamasi, Linnet
The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of community-based strategies of curbing small arms and light weapons proliferation in West Pokot County, Kenya. The study’s motivation was based on the current prevalence of SALW among marginalized communities in Kenya, which has led to widespread insecurity. The study is guided by the following objectives; to evaluate the effectiveness of community-based strategies on curbing of SALW and to assess the challenges facing approaches of curbing SALWs within West Pokot County. Social Conflict Theory and System Theory of Conflict guide this study. This study employed mixed methods research design. The study utilized both probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Data was collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The quantitative data was then analysed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) software while qualitative data was coded and analysed by doing an analytic induction using the theories. The Study findings were then presented in tabular format using percentages, frequencies and pie chart. Qualitative data was presented using graphic and interactive timelines that helped in tracking how the SALW has unfolded over time. Findings of this research showed that there is a problem in SALW in Pokot and surrounding communities. The study also established that economic marginalisation, historical rivalries, rites of passage and ethnic stereotypes all contributed to SALW. The study further affirmed that, sporting activities such as football, racing among other activities could act as alternative ways of sustaining security in west Pokot. The study concluded that Consistent access to small arms and light weapons has created intermittent conflicts and insecurity in pastoral regions in Kenya and, more specifically. The easy availability of SALW has greatly contributed to the levels of death and destruction wrought by the raids and conflicts in the region. Violent raid and conflicts have negatively impacted these communities, not only through the loss of human lives and destruction of property but also by limiting freedom of movement, contributing to the ineffective utilization of resources necessitating community-based strategies like nyumba kumi, public intelligence gathering in a bid to curb the menace.
Global Media and Multilateral Negotiations: Case of Paris Agreement on Climate Change (2015)
(CEDRED, 2022) Kinayia, Antony Parkion; Muoka, Boniface
The study investigated global news media on handling the reporting of international Multilateral Negotiations during the Paris Agreement on Climate change (PACC) of 2015. Specific objective was to examine the contribution of the UN broadcasting in promoting fair coverage of multilateral negotiations leading to PACC (2015). Reporting the world news media that favourably sheds light on climate change through multilateral negotiations led to PACC 2015. Liberal Institutionalism theory and survey research design guided the study. Interviews and questionnaires were used for data collection and analysis done quantitatively and qualitatively. The findings were of great importance to the government, NGOs, IGOs, academics and additional stakeholders towards addressing Multilateral Negotiations. This leverage their ability to impact climate change based international negotiations and overcome challenges faced in negotiations. The ability of the Global Media to cover climate change matters is handicapped by the support it offers to hegemony, contributing to a skewed Media coverage of PACC 2015 in favour of the developed countries.
A Political Economy of Inadequate Housing in Kenya: A Case of Mathare Valley, Nairobi 1920-2022
(TJSS, 2023) Kinyanjui, Felistus
The purpose of this article is to analyze the 100-year transformation of Mathare Valley settlement in Nairobi City County of Kenya. It answers the question of how the unwanted settlement has found a space for its residents against policy and fiscal odds to survive and provide housing for last one century to an urban poor who were otherwise considered vagrants by municipal authorities. Mathare Valley settlement is a shanty attributable to reliance on the use of readily available and cheap materials such as corrugated iron sheet, carton boards, cast-off timber and plastic sheeting for putting up the structures. The questions of economic rent and ‘who would meet the cost of municipal services’ rendered to the city in ‘unauthorized’ Mathare settlement dominated municipal and city council debates up to the 1950s and a legacy held by contemporary political elite. Mathare is a reflection of the resilience of the lumpen in the context of an unwelcome urbanization policy framework relegating it to unauthorized, informality, filth, disease, vagrancy and crime. Notwithstanding these challenges today Mathare is home to 60 % of Nairobians.
Economic Marginalization Aspects Influencing Radicalization of Youth in Mombasa County, Kenya
(CEDRED, 2023) Kamais, Cosmas Ekwom; Mulu, Francis; Macharia, Hannah Muthoni
Various factors driving youth radicalisation have been advanced, spanning political convictions, socioeconomic and religious ideologies, social anomie, and relational aspects. However, there has been a great tendency to downplay the significance of economic marginalisation as a driver of youth radicalisation with due consideration of the diversity of geopolitical and socioeconomic settings. Since Kenya intervened in Somalia, there has been a notable increase in youth radicalisation into groups such as Al Shabaab. Therefore, this study examined how economic marginalisation accounts for youth radicalisation in Kisauni, Mombasa County, Kenya. To contextualise the submissions, literature was reviewed to understand existing debates on the issue of youth radicalisation and identify the gaps. The study's arguments were anchored on human needs and frustration-aggression theories that examine the hindrances of attaining basic human needs as drivers for violent and criminal tendencies. The study used a descriptive survey research design. Data was collected from a sample of 399 respondents and forty key informants. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS and presented using statistical charts and tables, while qualitative data were analysed thematically using the excerpt method. The study found that compared to the other radicalisation motivators, most youths were economically marginalised and vulnerable to radicalisation. The study also found that the economic marginality of youth is a key driver for the radicalisation of youth in Kisauni Mombasa County. Moreover, the study established that CVE policy measures in Mombasa County were effective but needed to be tailored to address economic marginalisation attending youth radicalisation. The study concluded that Kisauni, Mombasa County's economic marginalisation significantly motivated radicalising youth and their propensity to join VEOs such as Al Shabaab, MRC, and local criminal gangs. The study recommended the enhancement of youth economic empowerment and the development of innovative skills for self-employment. Furthermore, the study recommended that relevant agencies review CVE approaches and policies to address economic marginalisation that motivates youth radicalisation. The role of the County Government in peace, security, and CVE needs to be enhanced in a multiagency framework for broader and comprehensive CVE.
Gender Mainstreaming Policies and Women Participation in Peace Support Operations: A Case of Kenya’s Contingents in African Mission in Somalia, 2011-2020
(CEDRED, 2023) Kang’ung’u, Francisca Kitondo; Ichani, Xavier Francis
Gender mainstreaming as means of widening women participation in peace support operations is increasingly attracting scholarly attention. This study aimed at investigating the influence of gender mainstreaming policies on women participation in peace support missions using the case of Kenya’s contingents in the African Mission in Somalia from 2011 to 2020. Specific objectives were to analyze the UN rationale for women participation in peace keeping operation in the context of Kenya, to assess enacted gender mainstreaming policies for women participation and their influence on women participation in peace keeping operations and to evaluate how inclusion of women in peace keeping operations influenced the overall mission outcome of Kenya’s peacekeeping operations contingents in the African Mission in Somalia between 2011 and 2020. Guided by the liberal feminist theory and primary and secondary data gathered and analyzed using mixed approaches of qualitative and quantitative research, this study found that despite the UN Security Council resolution 1325 expanding peace support operations by incorporating inclusion of women in its operations, the proportion of women in peace support operation is still low. However, there is increased involvement of the women in peace support operations in the Kenyan contingents in Somalia. Secondly, Kenya has enacted gender mainstreaming policies including gender units and gender coordinators, training programs, gender sensitivity programs and workshops. Thirdly, deployment of women in the peace keeping contingents added value to the overall outcomes of African Mission in Somalia by reinforcing skill sets, increasing acceptance by the host country and reducing gender-based violence. Therefore, the study recommends increased integration of women in peace support, increased awareness on the role of gender mainstreaming policies in according women equal opportunities to participate in peace support operations.
Assessment of Banditry, Cattle Rustling and Insecurity Nexus in North West Kenya
(JAIS, 2023) Musau, Daniel Muange; Ichani, Xavier Francis; Mulu, Francis
Banditry and cattle rustling in North West Kenya pose a serious threat to security in the country. The negative impact of violent banditry and cattle rustling in North West Kenya is heavily felt in terms of social disorder and economic disruption especially loss of human life and property destruction. Vicious cycles of insecurity in the region coupled with the prolonged deployment of security forces are an area of concern Given the strong reluctance by scholars to publish works of banditry, this article will add to the existing literature. The paper posits that banditry and cattle rustling has evolved their methods and tactics to lethal militants reigning terror to the citizen and security personnel. The drivers of the modern banditry and cattle rustling in the region are unique together with the attendant causes since they continued fueling incessant insecurity with dire consequences. The study was anchored with a revisionist theory which is germane to the study due to its perspective on national security adopting a modern approach that is more human-centric than the traditional statecentric approach. With reference to banditry in North West Kenya, this article adopted a descriptive method to examine the connection between banditry and threat to security as well as describe the historical background of banditry, drivers of banditry, the threat posed by banditry to security, key raging debates concerning banditry and consequences of banditry. The paper suggests that a number of factors, including the lack of government control, high unemployment rates, poverty, a lack of social purpose (in the form of archaic cultural practices), political influence, illiteracy, competition for scarce resources, and the proliferation of small arms, are fueling the rise of banditry in Kenya's northwestern region. In the concluding reflections, the study strived to proffer academic recommendations and appropriate strategies for the governments, security agencies, and multi agencies to reduce the banditry problem in North West Kenya. From the general public, 120 respondents were chosen as the sample size. The study, which relied on secondary data, found that contemporary banditry constituted a serious threat to national security. The recommendations informed the conclusion of the study.

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