Kutto, Jonathan KipkemboiKinyanjui, Felistus2026-01-192026-01-192026-01DOI: 10.32898/ihssj.02/8.2article05https://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/32092ArticleThe deployment of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Kenya has caused extensive loss of life, destruction of property, and heightened insecurity for over a decade. This study assessed the socio-economic impacts of IEDs in Garissa County from 2012 to 2019. Specifically, it examined the county‘s susceptibility to IED attacks, the effects on socio-economic activities, and the influence of internal security policies on local security organization. The study was guided by Terror Management Theory by Ernest Becker and Rational Choice Theory by Cesare Beccaria. An exploratory survey design employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches was adopted. Primary data were obtained through interviews and questionnaires from 100 respondents drawn from a population of 480,146 (2019 Census), while secondary data were sourced from credible reports, journals, and online publications. Sampling techniques included purposive, random, and snowballing methods. Data were analyzed descriptively and presented using tables and charts. Findings revealed that Garissa County‘s proximity to Somalia has made it highly vulnerable to retaliatory attacks by Al-Shabaab. The use of IEDs has disrupted economic activities, led to a reduction in non-local populations, and strained internal security structures. However, security policy reforms and new legislation have improved counter-IED efforts. The study recommends enhanced intelligence sharing through public-private partnerships, protection of critical infrastructure, multi-agency collaboration, and continuous evaluation of security policy implementation.enArticle