Browsing by Author "Emily Okuto"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Human-Wildlife Conflict Management: Towards a Comprehensive Strategies for Sustainable Coexistence in Conservancies in Laikipia County
    (2023) Samuel N, Kamande; Emily Okuto; John R, Kisilu
    The article explores the rampant issue of human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) in conservancies, primarily focusing on Laikipia County, Kenya. In response to the escalating global challenge of HWC, privately run conservancies have emerged as a proactive approach to safeguarding natural ecosystems while promoting responsible resource utilization. These conservancies also aim to reshape societal perceptions and behaviors regarding wildlife. However, the conservancies in Laikipia County currently face a significant HWC crisis due to the encroachment of human activities into wildlife habitats. This encroachment has led to adverse consequences for biodiversity conservation and local livelihoods. The insufficiency of existing control measures necessitates the development of comprehensive strategies that can effectively reduce conflicts, protect the interests of both human and wildlife populations, and ensure the long-term viability of conservancies. The study employs the socio-ecological systems (SES) theory as its foundational framework. Research within Laikipia County involves diverse participants, including conservancy staff, community leaders, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in community outreach. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires and interviews to collect primary and secondary data. Quantitative data is analyzed using SPSS version 21, while qualitative analysis uncovers underlying patterns and themes in the dataset. The study’s findings emphasize the pivotal role of community engagement and strategic land use planning in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. The data highlights that private conservancies actively organize community training programs to raise awareness about the significance of wildlife conservation. Moreover, a shift in land use, explicitly transitioning from livestock rearing to cropland cultivation, emerges as a viable strategy for reducing conflict incidents in Laikipia County. The SES theory underscores the importance of understanding both social and ecological factors for coexistence. Social acceptability influences attitudes towards wildlife, impacting conflict dynamics and conservation efforts. Striking a balance between environmental diversity and social acceptability is crucial for effective conflict resolution. The study’s results reveal how conservancies’ impact on local lifestyles can influence attitudes and values, potentially leading to conflicts between humans and wildlife.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Use and Misuse of Social Media and National Security in Africa: A Delicate Balance between Order and Liberty in Kenya
    (Africa Journal of Security and Strategic Studies, 2026-02) June R Ruto; Emily Okuto; Israel Nyadera
    Social media activism in Africa presents both opportunities and risks. It promotes transparency, accountability, and civic engagement, but also generates misinformation, polarization, and security threats. In Kenya, campaigns such as #RejectFinanceBill2024 have demonstrated how online mobilization can strengthen democratic participation but also escalate to unrest when fueled by disinformation and incitement. This study examines the impact of social media activism on national security in Kenya between 2014 and 2024, focusing on three objectives: how social media facilitates activism that threatens security, the correlation between online activism and security breaches, and the effectiveness of government interventions. Anchored in Social Movement Theory, Network Theory, and Securitization Theory, the study employed a descriptive design, random sampling of 384 social media users and purposive sampling of 10 experts, and mixed data collection through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive and thematic analysis revealed that platforms such as X, TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp are central to both civic mobilization and the spread of hate speech, propaganda, and cyber threats. Correlation tests showed strong associations between online activism and violent protests as well as between activism and the unintentional spread of misinformation. While government responses, ranging from legislation to digital surveillance, aimed to contain these risks, they have often sparked public contestation for undermining freedoms. The study concludes that safeguarding Kenya’s national security requires balanced regulatory frameworks, platform-specific co regulation, digital literacy initiatives, and real-time crisis communication, measures that address genuine threats without eroding constitutional rights.