Military Installations and Their Significance to Livelihoods in Kenya: A Case of Kahawa Barracks
Loading...
Date
2021
Authors
Opiyo, Kelly Otieno
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Generally, this study focused on determining how the location of military barracks has influenced the livelihoods of people living around it focusing on Kahawa barracks in Kenya. The study aims at interrogating whether the location of military installations has a role and a priority in economic development. In their growth and development, many military organizations have surpassed their mandated roles and legally took over the development of certain sectors including economic, environmental, political, and societal developments in the society. The objective of the study was to assess the role of the military in socio economic development in Kenya with a focus on Kahawa Barracks in Nairobi by assessing the economic activities coming up in the area, examining the impact of Kahawa barracks on the economy and livelihoods of the locals, assessing the challenges brought about military barracks in the area and mitigation measures.The literature review aimed at revealing the kind of interactions between the military as an institution and the local communities and how the military has incorporated social corporate responsibility in their development agenda. The study used interdependency theory and employs a qualitative research design. A sample size of 60 respondents living within the barracks and members of the local community outside the barracks was drawn from the population using interview schedules, FGDs, and observation. Data collected was assessed and analyzed qualitatively in a narrative format. The conclusion was drawn based on the findings of the study and the recommendations made. The outcome may be published for policymakers‟ reference by security organs including military commanders to promote peace through sustainable Civilian military cooperation. The study concluded that because of the large number of soldiers at Kahawa barracks, many bars, eateries, shopping outlets, vegetable shops, barbershops, little eating houses, carpentry shops, and marketplaces have been grounded in regions close to the camps to cater to the camp inhabitants. The study further concluded that many serving service members are opting to stay off the barracks close to the barracks. The study concludes that the establishment of Kahawa barracks has resulted in both negative and positive impacts. Some of the positive impacts resulting from Kahawa barracks include supporting and aiding the local communities during crisis and emergencies, enjoyment of military facilities and services by locals around, and improving the general security of the area. The negative impacts included among some conflicts that arose between Kahawa barracks personnel and local communities, which might cause grievances and injuries to either party or increased immorality in the area. The study recommends that the Defense Headquarters to take affirmative steps to mitigate the problem of encroachment into military land through zoning ordinances which ensure that development around the barracks is consistent with the military activities; building codes that address and minimize noise concerns; and real estate noise disclosure requirements that inform buyers of the conditions that exist because of the barracks. The study also recommends that there should be rules and procedures on the access to military barracks to ably reduce the number of influx into the barracks thus reducing threat, insecurity, and the number of shoppers within the barrack
Description
A Research Project Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of Masters of Science Degree in Security and Strategic Studies in the School of Diplomacy and Peace Studies of Kenyatta University, March, 2021
Keywords
Military Installations, Their Significance, Livelihoods, Kenya, A Case, Kahawa Barracks