The Role of Blue Economy Infrastructure on Security in Kenya: A Case Study of Lake Victoria
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Date
2023-11
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The study examined the Blue economy infrastructure development and its effects on security in Kenya with specific emphasis on Lake Victoria. The general objective of this study was to examine the role of blue economy infrastructure development on Kenya’s Lake Victoria region The individual objectives of the research is to explore how the development of blue economy infrastructure contributes to security along Lake Victoria region, to explore the role of inclusive governance frameworks with stakeholder participation in the planning, implementation, and management of blue economy infrastructure in Lake Victoria and evaluate their impact on the security of the region and to analyse risks to blue economy infrastructure development in boosting security along Lake Victoria region. This research was hinged on the structural change theory as per the Lewis Model. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with key stakeholders and quantitative analysis of data related to security incidents and economic indicators. From the first objective, which was how the development of blue economy infrastructure contributes to security along Lake Victoria region, the study found a significant positive correlation between the development of blue economy infrastructure and enhanced security in the Lake Victoria region. From the second objective, which was the role of inclusive governance frameworks and stakeholder participation in the planning, implementation of blue economy infrastructure in Lake Victoria and evaluate their impact on the security of the region, the study found that Inclusive governance frameworks and stakeholder participation play a crucial role in the planning, implementation and management of blue economy infrastructure projects in the Lake Victoria region The third objective which sought to analyze the risks and challenges to Blue economy infrastructure development in boosting security in Lake Victoria, the study found that Lake Victoria, as one of Africa's largest freshwater bodies, faces several environmental risks and challenges that directly impact the security and well-being of the communities dependent on its resources. In conclusion, this study shed light on the crucial role of blue economy infrastructure in enhancing security in Kenya, particularly in the context of Lake Victoria. The findings of this research highlight the multifaceted nature of the relationship between blue economy infrastructure and security, demonstrating that investment in sustainable infrastructure can significantly contribute to the overall security framework of a region. To capitalize on the gains of blue economy infrastructure development on security, the study, therefore makes the following recommendations; Increasing funding for blue economy infrastructure projects, continuous monitoring and evaluation and capacity building initiatives to enhance skills and knowledge.
Description
A Project Report Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Security and Strategic Studies in the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences of Kenyatta University. November 2023
Supervisor.
Stephen Handa