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Effect of Proliferation of Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons on Kenya’s National Security. A Case Study of West Pokot County.
(NDU-K, 2023) Nthiga Josphat N
Unchecked proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) is a major threat to national, regional and international security. There are various causes for proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons which include: diversion from national stockpiles of different countries as a result of civil wars, and circulated through arms trafficking to various parts of the world, those smuggled by arms manufacturers, illegal sale by security officers among others. Global, regional and national estimates of illicit arms outweigh the legal government arms held by the military and law enforcement agencies hence this explains insecurity in various parts of the world. In Kenya as a result of neighborhood with countries that experience internal political turmoil, proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons has been very rampant. Pastoralist communities in the Arid and Semi-Arid areas of Northern Kenya are the most affected and this has resulted to perennial insecurity in that region with resultant underdevelopment and national insecurity. This study was therefore undertaken to determine the effect of proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons on Kenya’s national security in order to come up with policy recommendations that can be adopted to arrest the situation. The research was undertaken in four Sub Counties of West Pokot County that are most inflicted with illicit SALWs insecurity. Data was collected through interviews and questionnaires using sample sizes of thirty and one hundred and ten respondents respectively. A pragmatic research design was adopted with triangulation approach applied in data collection, presentation, and analysis. The study considered two theories; Social Identity Theory and Rational Choice Theory to establish the drivers of proliferation of illicit SALWs amongst civilians in spite of the government providing security to its citizens. The objectives of the study were; to examine the impact of proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) on Kenya’s National Security, to assess the effects of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) instruments on illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons’ proliferation control on National Security in West Pokot County, and to find out the security measures to counter illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons proliferation that have been adopted to enhance National Security in West Pokot County. From the research findings, it was established that proliferation of illicit SALWs had adversely affected national security. Alternative Dispute Resolution instruments applied by various stakeholders were found to have significantly contributed to alleviation of this national vice. However, the efforts undertaken by national security organs in alleviating proliferation through law enforcement approaches were reported to have been ineffective, though those that applied participatory soft enforcement strategies had some levels of success. Both the law enforcement, and Alternative Dispute Resolution approaches were hindered by constraints that if addressed could boost the fight against illicit SALWs proliferation in Kenya. Various policies were recommended to reduce proliferation of illicit SALWs in West Pokot County and these were; sustained security operations, supporting ADR efforts, strategic deployment of formed up police units accompanied by modern technological advancements, uniform implementation of government security directives, infrastructural developments, and regional cooperation.
Role of Civil Society Organizations in Countering Violent Extremism: Case of Coast Region, Kenya
(NDU-K, 2023) Musyimi John K
There are numerous research gaps on the contributions of different actors in the fight against violent extremism and that is why my research thesis will critically evaluate the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) in the Coastal region of Kenya. The African continent has experienced several incidences of violent extremism and scary instances of terror attacks in different regions. Kenya has experienced numerous terror attacks across the national boundaries and within the capital city prompting the need to focus on the effective mechanisms that can address severe security threats and deal with terrorism that has resulted in deaths, destruction of property and radicalization of people leading to war and instability. It is based on this understating that this study intends to rally policy makers and academia on the role of CSOs in CVE. This research employed Soft Power Model and asserts that social cohesion can be used to deter vices such as crime, terrorism and violent extremism that threaten community cohesion. Social cohesion is a form of social capital that advocates and promotes a sense of belonging in the community, social justice, sense of worth, participation and acceptance as a member of a given community. This research employed case study that focused mainly on the Coastal region of Kenya, which has been most affected by terrorism activities. The research study analyzes the critical roles played by various CSOs in CVE at the Coast region of Kenya and the potential challenges limiting their contributions in countering violent extremism. It was established that limited engagement and consultations with the government, laws and regulatory frameworks, financial and administrative challenges are some of the challenges limiting the contributions of CSOs in CVE. The information gathered from the CSOs was collaborated by expert’s opinion from terrorism and security sector such as Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Prison Service, Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Intelligence Services and National Police Service. The study therefore applied a systematic sampling to generate the targeted research respondents. The study used both primary and secondary data sources to gather relevant information on the topic. Questionnaires and informant Interview guide were the major primary sources of data. Secondary sources of data such as books, magazines, reports, periodicals, journals and articles were also used to provide specific information on different matters of concern. The collected data was analyzed using effective techniques such as document and content analysis to confirm the hypothesis that CSOs play an active role in CVE and establish the limitations of operations towards enhancing security in the coastal region of Kenya. The content analysis was seeking-out the themes that describe the role of CSOs in CVE in the Coastal region. The final results of the study were presented using bar graphs, pie chart, frequency tables and narrative. Finally, this research adhered to the research standards and the guidance of the supervisor.
The Effectiveness of Separation Strategy in Countering and Preventing Violent Extremism in Kenyan Prisons
(NDU-K, 2023) Kirii Jane W
This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of separation as a mechanism of countering and
preventing violent extremism in Kenya prisons. The study was anchored on the following
objectives; evaluating the normative and institutional frameworks for management of violent
extremism offenders in the Kenyan prisons, reviewing the various methods used to combat and
prevent violent extremism in Kenyan Prisons and determining the challenges and opportunities
inherent de-radicalization and counterterrorism strategies in Kenya prisons. This study was
guided by the Restorative justice theory, Retributive justice theory and the transformative justice
theory.. The study applied descriptive research design. This study used purposive and simple
random sampling techniques to select 200 respondents who included; prison staff (senior staff),
religious leaders (Sheikhs), and criminal justice lawyers, Office of the ODPP, prosecutors and
inmates.. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and key informants interview
schedules. Secondary data was collected from published articles, journals, books, dissertations
and projects. Quantitative data was coded and entered into Statistical Package for Social
Sciences (SPSS) software version 22 for analysis while qualitative data was arranged
thematically and presented through narration. The study findings established that; there exist
weaknesses in law regarding management of violent extremist in Kenya particularly leniency
relating to the justice served. On the strategies utilized for the management of violent extremist,
incarceration is perceived as a fairly effective strategy while military incursion is regarded as a
very effective strategy. Radicalization can be positive if it does not encourage violence or harm.
Prison authorities have adopted various approaches to manage violent extremism which include;
faith-based interventions which entail religious transformation offered by professional Clerics;
separation of convicted inmates in different prison blocks and cells; education and vocational
training to illiterate and marginalized offenders to acquire skills which can avail them
employment opportunities, psychological and cognitive approaches as well as use of recreational
and cultural activities. These strategies are geared towards dissuading violent extremism
offenders from extremism as well as deradicalize them. The study findings identified the
challenges which confront the successful implementation of deradicalization and prevention of
violent extremism in Kenyan Prisons as well as opportunities. They include; institutional
challenges, recidivism or relapse among the Prisoners; reintegration challenges; structural
challenges evidenced by unemployment among the released terrorist convicts; regulatory
discontinuities, Gang related problems among others. In this regard the study recommends for a
coordinated multiagency cooperation in the management of violent extremists suspects or
prisoners. There is also need for drafting and legislation of a policy framework for the
management of violent extremism in rehabilitation facilities in the country.
Influence of Climate Change on Human Security in Tsavo Conservation Area, Kenya
(NDU-K, 2023) Wamboi Jane F
The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of climate change on human security in the Tsavo Conservation Area in Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to analyze the climate change profile in the Tsavo conservation area, to investigate the human security concerns in in Tsavo conservation area, and to determine the link between the climate change profile and the human security in the Tsavo Conservation Area. The study was anchored on human security theory and social security theory. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods. The sample for the study included 3 staff from the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, 4 staff from the Kenya Wildlife Service (Headquarters), 4 staff from the Kenya Wildlife Service in TCA, 6 staff from the Kenya Wildlife Research and Training Institute, 9 opinion leaders from the community and 384 Community Members living adjacent to TCA. The study applied questionnaires, interview schedules, and focused group discussions. Before actual data collection pilot tests were conducted to ascertain reliability and validity aspects. Data collection involved both administration of google-survey questionnaire using a computerized data kit as well as face-to-face interviews and group discussions. Data that was collected was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Findings were presented in tables, pie charts, bar-graphs, and narratives. The study received a 100% response rate. The study found that the Tsavo climate profile was characterized by declining rainfall, rise in temperatures, changes in weather patterns that were hard to predict, and draught. The study revealed that there were multiple human security concerns in the Tsavo conservancy area including food shortage, water shortage and poor quality of water, displacement, and migration, declining economic opportunities, changes in biodiversity and ecosystems, and changes in cultural activities. Lastly, the study revealed that climatic changes had influenced human security profoundly where climatic changes had resulted in food problems, poor quality of drinking water, increase in conflicts and personal security concerns, deteriorations in the health of residents, and decline of economic opportunities. The study concluded that climate change had influenced human security to a great extent. The study recommended strengthening of education and awareness platforms on climate change, application of sustainable practices in food production, collaboration with both local and international community to leverage adaptation and mitigation mechanisms which include, diversification of livelihoods, water harvesting, and plans on how to handle displacements.
Strategising the Use of Drones in Modern Aerial Warfare For Indian Sub-continent
(NDU-K, 2023) Gupta Vijay K
Drones have rapidly created a space for themselves in modern aerial warfare in the recent past. In the 21st Century Wars, they have been found to play key roles in creating favourable situations for the victors. They have evolved from under the shadow of manned aircraft and are extremely useful in modern aerial warfare. Many countries have timely invested in this technology and are reaping benefits. These countries include the pioneers of this technology such as Israel and the United States followed by Turkey, China, and Iran among others. Drones are being used in multiple roles by these countries that include ISR, BDA, and Air to Surface attacks. Drones have a lot of scope in the future as they will be used in roles of loyal wingmen, drone swarms, and even the delivery of WMDs. India is an emerging superpower in the South Asia region with the second-largest standing Army, the fifth-largest air force in the world, and an expanding Navy. It is surrounded by hostile neighbours and it needs to ensure that its strong military retains the technological edge. It needs to ensure that in the field of drones, it is at par if not ahead of its neighbours. This research aimed to strategise the use of drones in modern aerial warfare for Indian Subcontinent keeping the threat assessment in mind. Using the Theory of Realism, the study followed a mix of a quantitative and qualitative approach to assess the laid down objectives that included the study of the global evolution of drones, assessment of the roles and tasks that can be performed by drones in modern aerial warfare and analysis of effective employment of drones in various types of military campaigns keeping India at centre stage. The study found that drones have not been adopted doctrinally well, in the Air Power doctrine of IAF, to give the required emphasis on their usage and proper procurement and India lacks the strategic environment for research, development and domestic production of drones for aerial warfare. The study recommended that the Indian Air Force needs to doctrinally adopt drones in various roles for aerial warfare, lay down the specifications and requirements of drones for their procurement and development, and India must create an environment for the indigenous development of these war machines.