RP-Department of Conflict Resolution and International Relations

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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.
An Analysis of the Impact of Kenya's Protectionist Laws on the Implementation of the East African Community (EAC) Common Market Protocol
(JAIS, 2023) Barasa, Masika Benjamin; Mulu, Francis; Kakai, Pius
Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, and South Sudan make up the East African Community (EAC), a regional economic union. Barriers to trade and investment within the EAC region were reduced by the signing of the Common Market Protocol (CMP) in 2010. Kenya and other EAC member nations have enacted protectionist policies that have hampered the CMP's full fulfillment. The term "protectionism" is used to describe measures taken to shield indigenous sectors from international competition by limiting trade and foreign direct investment. To shield its domestic sectors from international competition, Kenya has adopted protectionist policies similar to those of many other emerging nations. Import licensing restrictions and tariffs are two examples of protectionist policies. Unfortunate events have led to unforeseen implications for the region's economy, despite the region's best intentions. The region has seen a decline in foreign direct investment (FDI) because of protectionist policies that have raised trade barriers and stifled competitiveness. Kenya's restrictive trade policies have so prevented the full implementation of the EAC CMP. The purpose of this research was to analyze how Kenya's trade barriers have affected the progress of the EAC CMP. The results of the research shed light on how protectionist policies have impacted regional efforts to integrate their economies, such as company competitiveness, trade flows, and investment. Policymakers and other interested parties in the EAC region can use the study's findings to further economic integration and boost the region's competitiveness. In this study, an examination on how Kenya's protectionist legislation has affected the progress of the EAC CMP was undertaken. The purpose of this research was to analyze the impact that Kenya's protectionist policies have had on the implementation of the EAC CMP, which was established to facilitate the free flow of goods, services, capital, and people within the EAC. The study used a qualitative research approach, collecting information through document analysis and interviews with key participants in Kenya's commercial and industrial sectors. Using text analysis, this study provided light on the ways in which the protectionist policies of Kenya impact regional business competitiveness, trade, and investment. At the completion of the research, it was eminent that the high tariffs, non-tariff impediments, and import licensing procedures that enhance the cost of doing business are less competitive than those in other regions and Kenya can better integrate the country's economic protectionist policies with those of the EAC CMP. The study recommends that a modification of protectionist policies so that they are consistent with the goals of the EAC CMP. Tariffs and non-tariff barriers should be lowered, and import licensing made easier and encouraging free trade. Moreover, the EAC member states to create a dispute resolution body to address challenges on regional economic integration. In order for SMEs to participate in regional markets, the study suggests that EAC member states prioritize capacity building for SMEs.
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.
Assessment of Climate Change Anxiety in High School Youths of Kwale County, Kenya
(EANSO, 2023-12) Mutua, Patrick M.; Kauti, Matheaus K.; Mwangangi, Leonard; Nzilani, Musyoka Sonnia
Climate change anxiety refers to negative cognitive, emotional, behavioural, and functional responses to experiences of climate change and has implications on mental health. The current study sought to determine how climate change anxiety relates to cognitive-emotional and functional impairments as well as with experience of climate change and behavioural engagement in youths. The study surveyed 388 youths (aged 13-24 years) in high schools in Kwale County, Kenya. Data were analysed in XLSTAT software usingPearson's correlation and considered significant for values of p ≤ 0.05. Over 60 % of the youths had more than "Sometimes" suffered cognitive-emotional impairment, while 63 % were more than "Sometimes" inflicted with functional impairment. Additionally, 61 % of the respondents more than "Sometimes" reported having had a climate change experience. However, 71 % of the youths were more than "Sometimes" engaged in climate change behavioural activities. There were no significant gender differences in the scores. Cognitive-emotional impairment (M = 2.507, SD = 1.267) was significantly (P = 0.0048) associated with behavioural engagement in climate change (M = 3.019, SD = 1.403). Youths attending day schools scored significantly (P = 0.022) higher in functional impairment (M = 2.897, SD = 1.182) than students in boarding schools (M = 2.535, SD = 1.395). Youths aged 13-17 years were substantially more affected by climate change anxiety than those aged 18-24 years. This study identifies a population at risk with highexposure and vulnerability to the health impacts of climate change. The study suggests the need for policies to address climate change anxiety in youths in schools and the use of the youths' pro-environmental behavioural engagements in climate change to improve their adaptive capacity.
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.
Blue Economy Infrastructure Development and Security: A Case Study of Kenya’s Lake Victoria
(RJI, 2023-05) Lagat, Epapra Kipkemboi; Handa, Stephen
The blue economy is considered as sustainable utilization of oceanic resources for improved livelihood, economic growth, and job creation while ensuring that the health of oceanic systems has been preserved. In Kenya, the blue economy refers to all activities that relate to coasts, seas, and oceans. This study analyzed Kenya’s Lake Victoria and attempts by the Kenyan government to develop its blue economy through the establishment of the lake’s infrastructure. Lake Victoria’s shoreline is one of the most congested and highly populated regions in Africa content with complex security issues. Security problems such as terrorism, piracy, and insecurity continue to threaten the overall sustainability of Kenya’s ministry of tourism. Therefore, international cooperation is one of the ways that can help counter-terrorism. This paper reviewed some of the major challenges that Kenya is facing in its attempt to develop a blue economy in Lake Victoria. Light was also shed on the blue economy infrastructure development as well as security initiatives that were already in place around the lake region. Implications for the development of a blue economy in the area were also reviewed. Further analysis of the role of the private sector in necessitating the development of the blue economy was also covered. Finally, the paper offered insights on how the Kenyan government through its county governments in collaboration with businesses had implemented successful measures aimed at developing blue economies. The core finding was that the development, expansion, and establishment of Lake Victoria’s blue economy should be guided by economic capacity-building rationales and security measures. The region's blue economy should be strengthened to meet the needs of both the locals and the country as a whole.
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.
Business level strategies and performance of selected supermarkets in Nairobi city county, Kenya
(iajournals.org, 2023) Kadenyeka., Joan; Mwasiaji, Evans
Commercial entities operating in a globalized and competitive business environment must adopt a market posture that allows them to effectively use their strengths, resources and innovations to take advantage of available opportunities in line with organizational objectives, while simultaneously hedging against potential threats. The chosen market posturing is made possible through effective implementation of appropriate strategies at the corporate, business, functional and operational levels. In Kenya, ten supermarkets in the retail trade sector within the last decade have had to close their business leading to job losses and negative impact on the national economy. This study anchored on dynamic capability theory, therefore sought to examine business level strategies and their effect on the performance of selected supermarkets in Nairobi City County in Kenya. Descriptive research design was adopted for this study. The unit of analysis was nine supermarkets, while the unit of observation selected using census method was sixty three managerial staff including senior executives in the areas of Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, Information Technology, Business Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. A self-administered semistructured questionnaire was used in collecting both qualitative and quantitative data in line with the specific objectives of the study. SPSS software was used to compute descriptive statistics to depict the characteristics of the study variables through tables and graphs. This study with a 65.07% response rate, established that there is a positive link between the supermarket’s performance and the three business level strategies of cost leaderships (β=0.240 and p=0.007); differentiation (β=0.629 and p=0.000) and focus (β=0.212 and p=0.037). Analysis of data showed that higher levels of strategy implementation led to enhanced performance, and vice versa. The position taken by this study therefore is that business level strategies are critical in facilitating the realization of supermarkets’ performance in Nairobi City County, Kenya. This study therefore recommends that the Government of Kenya ought to review relevant policies to lower the cost of doing business including improvement in infrastructure, while the supermarket’s strategies should target minimization of operational costs, offer lower cost commodities, invest in product innovations, adopt modern technology and undertake market focused research. The expected study output upon successful implementation of the given recommendations is enhanced performance of supermarkets in Nairobi City County.
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.
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.
Counter-Terrorism Measures and Personal Security in Lamu County, Kenya
(RJI, 2023) Langat, Peter Kipkemoi; Handa, Stephen
Terrorism remains a major threat facing several nations of the world. This has compelled nations to implement counter-terrorism measuresto cope with terrorism activities.This study examinedcounter-terrorism measures and its effecton personal security in Lamu, Kenya. The study specifically focusedoncounter-terrorism measures being applied by security agencies to enhance personal security in Lamu County; effects of various counter terrorism measures by security agencies on personal security in Lamu County and to determine the best practices that can enhance the influence of counter terrorism measures on personal security in Lamu County, Kenya. The study wasanchoredon securitization theory. The study adoptedcross sectionalsurvey design. Purposive sampling technique was adopted toselect security agents while Krejcie and Morgan method was used to select general public.The sample size of391 was selected where 380 were general public and 11weresecurity agents. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect primary data. Quantitative data was coded into SPSS. Data was presented using tables while content analysis was used in qualitative data. The study foundthat there are various counter-terrorism measures that have been adopted by security agencies on personal security such assurveillance, Nyumba Kumi initiative, increased budget allocation and investigations. Collaboration between the police and the local communityin security matter have resulted in fewer cases of terrorism andreduced cases of youthradicalization.There is increasedtrust level and effective information flow between law enforcement and the community. Human rights practices among security agencies and the communityshould be emphasized in fight against terrorism. The study recommended that it is necessary for the government to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, counter-terrorism tactics and procedures. Government should encourage inter-agency cooperation in the process of putting anti-terrorism strategies and actions into effect. Plans and actions to combat terrorism must maintain and respect human rights in every operation.
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.
Eastern Africa Region and Conflict Management: Case of Eastern Africa Stand Force
(IJRISS, 2023) Wanjira, Karanja; Wasonga, Joseph; Mulu, Francis
The Eastern Africa Region (EAR) has remained as one of the most conflicted zones in Africa drawing the attention to emergence of new experiments in managing conflicts. This has led to formation of African Union (AU) with specialized organ of African Standby Force (ASF) to untangle complex interstate and intrastate conflicts. Regional Security Organizations (RSO) are established under the auspices of ASF such as Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) for interventions to conflict ravaging states within the region. Despite various efforts to contain conflicts within the EAR, the region is compounded by violent conflicts, terrorism and threats towards peace and security. Ostensibly, the efforts of EASF in managing conflicts within the EAR has remained futile due to under representation in conflict interventions within the region. The objective of the study was to examine the rationale for the establishment of EASF as a regional organization (RO) in conflict management within the EAR. The study adopted neo-liberal institutionalism theory to underpin the rationale for establishment of security organizations by states. This study used both primary data from the interview guides, questionnaires and secondary data from document analysis, reports, MoUs, library books among others. The qualitative data is thematically organized to answer the research objective. The findings of this research established that EASF was founded under the authorization of the UNSC to address regional conflicts within the Eastern African region. Also, EASF has a legal framework as an international organization through international legal personality and immunities, and privileges. The study recommends that member states should have more cohesion for effective EASF operationalization.
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.
The Effect of Assessment Components on Lecturers’ Assessment Practices in Mogadishu Higher Institutions
(Research gate, 2023) Mohamed, Ali Abdi; Khalif, Hassan Bedel
Learning expectations and the strategies students use in a course are influenced by assessment techniques, an important aspect of course design. The study analyzed the effect of assessment components on lecturers’ assessment practices in Mogadishu higher education institutions. Design, interpretation, and administration were hypothesized as predictors of the university’s staff assessment practices. The study only used quantitative data. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 314 university academic staff or lecturers. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20. The three indicators included in the model (design, interpretation, and administration) were found to be important predictors of the assessment practices of the university academic staff using multiple regression analysis. A multiple regression analysis reveals that design has a greater influence on the academic staff's assessment practices than administration and interpretation, while all were significant predictors. To improve the assessment practices of higher education institutions in Mogadishu, Somalia, it was concluded that universities should support their academic staff in developing their academic skills in designing, interpreting, and administering their assessments.
Emotions in Negotiation and Mediation: Strategies for Managing Emotional Dynamics
(IJRISS, 2023) Mulu, Francis; Chungo, Dominic
Emotions are significant considerations in the negotiating and mediation processes that need to be undertaken in ways that offer effectiveness, through the regulation of emotional dynamics. The objective of the study was to examine the effectiveness of strategies for managing emotional dynamics and the impact on mediation and negotiation outcomes. The theories that guided the study included the affective events theory, the appraisal theory and the social identity theory. A web-based survey was used to compile the information with the use of purposive sampling technique in selecting respondents. The findings of the study revealed that feelings have a considerable impact on the process of negotiating or mediating as well as the outcome. Being able to effectively control emotional dynamics is essential to achieving success in negotiation and mediation. In conclusion, the role of empathy and emotional intelligence in productive negotiation and mediation was necessitated. As an implication, the study assists practitioners improve on negotiation and mediation and enhance success in resolving conflicts by providing an overview of the emotional dynamics that are present during the negotiation and mediation processes and presenting practical solutions for controlling those dynamics.
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.
Exit Strategies of Peace Support Operations of United Nations and Sustainable Peace: A Case of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
(JAIS, 2023) Mulu, Francis; Hamasi, Linnet
Peace Support Operations (PSO’s) exit in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been a quintessence of challenging exit strategies by UN peacekeeping efforts. The challenging exit strategies of PSO’s in DRC have adequately affected the stability and sustainable peace of the country over a period of time since independence. Prior, PSO’s in DRC have either been forced to withdraw or abandoned their mandate prematurely. The lack of a clear plan before the onset of the mission has led to extended periods of stay in the host nation. Expansion and transition of PSO’s mandate midway also led to a prolonged period of stay in the host nation. The resultant effect of the uncoordinated exits is manifested in the increasing conflict in DRC. Threats to sustainable peace are notable due to rising insurgency against PSOs and citizens. The local perception of the DRC to PSO’s is negative. Both regional and international efforts have adopted various strategies for stabilizing DRC with little success. There is a dart in studies of the exit strategy of PSO’s and sustainable peace in DRC. This study was anchored on peace theory to account for the previous PSOs' intervention in DRC since, previous exit strategies, external efforts made, local perception of PSOs in DRC, and threats posed. The study used qualitative methods to inquire about local and international perceptions. The article aims to proffer advice to the UN on the planned PSO exit strategy to aid in sustainable peace and stability.
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.
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.

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