Community Policing Strategies and Crime Prevention in Kisii Central Sub-County, Kisii County, Kenya
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Date
2025-09
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Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Across the globe, community-oriented policing has consistently been the preferred model for law enforcement agencies aiming to improve police-public relations and address crime and disorder. Despite ongoing efforts by various stakeholders to manage security challenges, Kisii Central Sub-County, the focus of this research, continued to face these difficulties. This study investigated the influence of different community policing strategies implemented by security sector stakeholders in addressing insecurity within Kisii Central Sub-County. The research objectives were to: examine the influence of community engagement on crime prevention, analyze the influence of strategic communication in crime prevention, determine the influence of resources on crime prevention, and assess how community perceptions shaped crime prevention initiatives in Kisii Central Sub-County. This research was guided by the broken windows theory, which posits that failing to address initial signs of insecurity can lead to more widespread problems, and the systems theory, which recognizes the interconnected roles of various stakeholders in achieving successful crime prevention. The research embraced a descriptive research design, collecting both qualitative and quantitative data. The target population included members of the chairpersons of the sub-location community policing committees, national government administrative officers, and police officers, with a sample size of 80 participants. A pilot study was done in the neighboring sub-county of Masaba South. Data was gathered using interview schedules and questionnaires. Qualitative data underwent content analysis and was categorized by theme. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented in tables, charts, and graphs. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to, ensuring anonymity, confidentiality, research authorization and permits were obtained, and the study's objectives were clearly explained to the participants. The study examined the role of community policing strategies in crime prevention in Kisii Central and found that a strong community engagement (M=3.75, SD=0.946) has a positive influence on crime prevention (β=0.308, p=0.002). Strategic communication (M=3.84, SD=1.027) and resource allocation (β=0.169, p<0.001) also proved to be significant factors. Community perception (M=3.95, SD=1.21) showed a strong positive impact on the effectiveness of crime prevention, with R²=0.634 in the regression analysis. The study concluded that active community engagement, effective strategic communication, adequate resource allocation, and positive community perception are crucial for successful crime prevention in Kisii Central. The findings highlight the need for collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the community, emphasizing investment in resources and the building of trust as fundamental elements for effective crime control. The study recommended strengthening community engagement by establishing regular forums and joint committees. It suggested developing a comprehensive multi-channel communication strategy to reach all community demographics. Local authorities should prioritize resource allocation for training, infrastructure, and technology. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies should focus on transparency and building positive community perceptions through consistent communication and addressing concerns promptly.
Description
A Project Submitted in Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration in the Department of Public Policy and Administration, School of Law and Social Sciences, Kenyatta University, September 2025.
Supervisor
1. Heather Kipchumba