Koech,Moses Kiprop2026-02-122026-02-122025-10https://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/32407A research project submitted to the school of law, arts and social sciences in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Security Strategic Studies at Kenyatta University, October 2025 Supervisor: Prof. Lucy W. MainaThe 2010 Constitution of Kenya, operationalized in 2013, established a devolved system of governance, delegating specific functions to county governments while retaining security under national government control. Despite this, county governments influence security through priority-setting and development mandates. The study evaluated the influence of devolved governance on effective internal security management in Nakuru County, Kenya, from 2013 to 2023. Specifically, the study analyzed the evolving security drivers in Nakuru County following the implementation of devolution in 2013, assessed the effects of devolved governance structures on security management in Nakuru County, examined the challenges hindering effective collaboration between national and county security frameworks in Nakuru County and proposes strategies for enhancing security management within the devolved system in Nakuru County. Using an exploratorydescriptive research design with mixed methods, the study purposively selected Nakuru County, targeting 120 respondents (household representatives, community leaders, businesspersons and Nyumba Kumi leaders) from Biashara, Flamingo, Kivumbini, Nakuru East and Menengai wards in Nakuru Town East Sub-County. Data was collected using interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs) and questionnaires. Key insecurity drivers identified include historical land disputes, unemployment, criminal activities, marginalization and migration. Devolution has enhanced security through local participation, County Policing Authorities (CPAs) and community policing initiatives like Nyumba Kumi, but challenges such as corruption, mismanagement of funds, resource constraints, lack of political goodwill and limited expertise persist. The study confirms adequate legal frameworks but highlights gaps in implementation. Recommendations include strengthening anti-corruption measures, reforming police services, enhancing local participation, improving intergovernmental coordination and deploying skilled security personnel.enThesis