National Defence College

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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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    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.
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    Health Tourism and Economic Development in Africa: A Case Study of Kenya.
    (NDU-K, 2023) George Githuka
    Background: Realizing that tourism has a significant multiplier effect on economic growth, countries are developing innovative strategies to spur the industry. Promoting health tourism, which is the travel to a foreign country for medical treatment, has been identified as one of the strategies to boost economic development. Traditionally, health tourism has involved travel from less to more developed countries. This has changed in recent years, where patients' motivation for travel is to seek lower-priced medical treatments, medical services unavailable or non-licensed in the home country, or higher quality treatment. More patients are now traveling from more to less-developed countries and between developing for medical treatment. Despite health tourism being on the rise globally, its adoption and scale-up have remained slow in many developing African countries. In Africa, for instance, despite the interest in medical travel, there have been very few studies on its potential for economic development. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess and examine health tourism and economic development in Africa using Kenya as a case study. It specifically aimed to; examine the emerging trends and patterns of health tourism in Africa, establish the challenges of health tourism in economic development in Kenya, and analyze the opportunities of health tourism for economic growth in Kenya. Theoretical framework: The study used the regionalism theory as the blueprint to approach health tourism. The recognized top destinations for health tourism globally have a significant proportion of their clients coming from countries in their neighborhood and member nations of Regional Economic Blocks with them. Health tourists consider the distance of travel, culture, language, quality, and treatment cost when selecting their destination country. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive design where questionnaire-administered interviews were conducted with key tourism and health stakeholders from the public and private sectors. Results: In Africa, the number of tourists traveling into and within its nations for medical care has steadily increased in the last ten years. The leading destinations for health tourists in Africa are Egypt, Morroco, and Tunisia in the North and the Republic of South Africa in the South. Health tourist destinations such as Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana are classified as emerging in the Eastern and Western regions of the continent. The leading challenges to health tourism for economic development in Kenya are; high overall cost, lack of marketing, low capacity, and the lack of appreciation of the potential as an economically viable sector. The leading opportunities for health tourism for economic development in Kenya are; a conducive policy environment, the status of Kenya in the region, a thriving tourism sector, and the country's cultural diversity. Recommendations: The study recommended convening of all health tourism stakeholders to strategize on the sector's growth to achieve the “Kenya Vision 2030” target of being the region's leading destination for health travelers. Keywords:
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    Impact of Development on Security: A Case Study of Marsabit County, Kenya.
    (NDU-K, 2025) Sokobe Titus G
    The arid and semi-arid parts of Northern Kenya have been experiencing insecurity for decades. Moreover, the region has been marginalized and suffers from gross underdevelopment as compared to the rest of the country. The resident communities often engage in conflicts over scarce natural resources such as water and pasture. The study, therefore, sought to explore the nexus between development and security. Specifically, the study sought to examine how poor road infrastructure, education, and lack of alternative sources of livelihood impacted security. The problem of insecurity has been persistent despite various government interventions. The study thus sought to analyse the nexus between underdevelopment and security to provide a long-term solution to these security challenges. The findings would be useful to academia and the government particularly the policymakers as well as the local community. A pragmatic research design was adopted which combines the advantages of both descriptive research design and qualitative research. Aspects of descriptive research design were also used as this enabled the researcher to explore the concepts and capture the respondents' views more clearly. The target population consisted of 250 respondents included; Marsabit County Government officials. Community leaders, Local Non-Governmental Organizations, Community Based Organizations, National Police Service, and Kenya Defence Forces forces deployed in the area. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and in-depth interviews, particularly for county senior leadership. The data collected was then analysed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques and the results were presented descriptively and using a graphical presentation. The study investigated the impact of poor road infrastructure, access to education, and reliance on livestock farming on security. The findings indicated that there is a direct correlation between security and poor road infrastructure, access to education, and overreliance on livestock farming. The study recommended that to address the recurrent insecurity challenges, the government should develop the area through the construction of motorable roads, enhance the access to basic education and empower the communities economically to diversify their sources of livelihood.
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    Neighborhood Watch Programmes and Management of Crime in Kajiado County, Kenya
    (NDU-K, 2025) Mbiuki Silvano M
    Neighborhood Watch Initiative (NWI) is a community policing approach and is a security strategy that is anchored at the household level for purposes of reducing crime. ‘While there exists plenty of research on community policing, a gap exists in literature regarding the effect of NWI (in this case, Nyumba Kumi Initaitive) on petty crimes within Kajiado County. The purpose of this study therefore was to establish the effect of Kenya’s government NWI dubbed Nyumba Kumi Initiative on Management of Petty Crimes within Kajiado County in Kenya. The objectives were to; i) assess the effect of funding on the implementation of NWI towards managing crimes, ii) determine the effects of remuneration of community leaders on the success of NWI and, iii) examine the level of awareness about NWI among the locals of Isinya Sub County, Kajiado County. The study used simple random sampling method and purposive sampling method to select the 105 respondents from a target population that comprised of members involved in NWI committees within Isinya Sub County Kajiado County. The study used structured questionnaires and interview guide to collect data. The data was analyzed through descriptive statistics. The results suggest that a significant number of the residents are not aware of the NWI and do not actively participate in its operations. In addition, the findings suggest that NWI is underfunded which in turn limits its effective implementation. Based on the findings, the study recommended that there is a need for building strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies and community members to enhance inclusivity in making security decisions. In addition, there is need for Government to allocated adequate funds to support local policing and offer incentives such as allowances to local citizens involved in NWI activities to motivate them to take active roles in sharing security information.
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    Engagement of the Youth Towards Promoting National Security in Kenya
    (NDU-K, 2025) Chenani Rose V
    The study sought to explain the extent of young people's contributions to national security. The research focused on understanding the various forms of youth participation in Kenya's national security endeavors. The general objective of this study is to evaluate the engagement of the youth toward promoting national security in Kenya. Specific objectives of the study are to evaluate the nature of youth engagements in contributing to national security, to examine the role of the youth on national security and analyze the challenges of not engaging the youths in national development activities in Kenya. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the impact that young individuals have on the overall state of Kenyan national security, the research aimed to evaluate the challenges and drawbacks associated with excluding young people from national development initiatives in Kenya. The Purposive research employed, also known as purposeful or selective sampling, is a non-probability sampling technique used in qualitative research. It involves intentionally selecting individuals, cases, or events that are most likely to provide rich and valuable information relevant to the research objectives. Interviews, surveys, and focus groups were conducted to gather data, which was then analyzed using statistical techniques and thematic analysis for comprehensive insights. By examining these aspects, this study provides valuable insights into the significance of youth involvement in ensuring robust national security. The study emphasizes the need to prioritize youth engagement in community development, social change, and national security. The challenges faced by young people in Kenya include limited access to resources, under-representation in decision-making processes, and a lack of skills and capacity. To address these challenges, the study recommends providing access to information and resources, promoting youth participation in leadership positions, and offering mentoring and coaching. Implementing these strategies can create an environment that empowers youth and benefits both the youth and society as a whole. The study highlights the critical role that youth play in national security in Kenya and emphasizes the need for government and stakeholders to prioritize youth development and address the risks and challenges faced by young people. Investing in education, employment, and civic participation programs can enhance the resilience of young people and reduce their vulnerability to security risks. The study postulates that youth can contribute to national security through community-based initiatives aimed at preventing and countering violent extremism and advocating for policies that promote social justice and inclusion. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of prioritizing youth engagement in promoting national security in Kenya. This can be achieved by implementing recommendations such as increasing youth representation in national security institutions, enhancing youth education and training, promoting youth entrepreneurship and innovation, creating partnerships with youth-led organizations, fostering positive ties between youths and law enforcement, promoting civic engagement and advocacy, and increasing access to information. It is crucial for the government and stakeholders to work together to develop and implement strategies and policies that empower and engage the youth in the country's development process to ensure long-term peace and stability.
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    Para-diplomacy and Security: An Examination of the Influence of Border Counties on Kenya's Border Stability
    (NDU-K, 2025) Ng’eno Gilbert K
    This study delves into the realm of Para-Diplomacy and its implications for border security in Kenya, with a specific focus on the role of border counties in Kenya. Utilizing mixed-methods research, including qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis, the investigation unravelled the underpinnings of border management mechanisms and the significant, yet undefined, role of border counties. The research revealed a gap in the institutional structure that does not explicitly define or harness the potential of counties in enhancing border security. Alongside this, the study explored Track One diplomacy - formal intergovernmental negotiations - and found it to be a positive contributor towards maintaining stability at Kenya's borders. The transformative power of Neofunctionalism theory was also investigated, demonstrating how diplomacy can be leveraged to resolve conflicts and foster regional integration. The study further suggests that Para-diplomacy - subnational regions' involvement in international affairs - could potentially bolster border security by harnessing the contribution of border counties towards regional integration. In conclusion, the research recommends the adoption of frameworks that promote collaboration between the central government and border counties. Such partnerships could enhance the effectiveness of border management mechanisms, thereby strengthening Kenya's border security. This study underscores the need for a paradigm shift in understanding and utilizing the potential of Para-diplomacy in border security management.
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    Third Party Data Sharing and Tax Compliance for Economic Security in Kenya
    (NDU-K, 2025) Ndirangu Naomi W
    Third-party data sharing involves the exchange of data between entities that are not directly involved in a transaction or relationship. In the context of tax compliance, it typically involves the sharing of information by employers, financial institutions, and other entities with tax authorities. This paper reviewed the sharing of taxpayer specific information between Government agencies or Public Sector in Kenya, a concept that has emerged over the last few years with automation of the revenue services such as online registration and filing of tax declarations. This is due to the fact that, despite the recent focus towards strengthening sharing of information and information exchange, the area of impact of an integrated data approach towards revenue mobilization has largely remained un-noticed in public finance literature. This paper provides an overview of information sharing, through third party data sharing to enhance tax compliance. This was achieved through review of practical concepts and issues on third party data sharing, theorizing on impact of information sharing and providing insights for enhanced tax compliance, increased revenue collection and ultimately enhanced revenue mobilization for the country. Relatedly, the paper also discusses how the systems used for automatic third party data sharing combined with data analytics can help improve compliance. The researcher selected participants for the study using purposive sampling based on specific criteria. The responses from the questionnaires were examined and analyzed to identify any connections or relationships among and between categories. The resulting data was then summarized and organized into a coherent whole to describe and interpret the findings related to the principal-agent relationship. One significant finding was that third party data sharing has a significant impact on tax compliance through provision, to tax authorities, of access to more information about taxpayers. Key recommendation is that there is need for enactment and legislation of laws and policies that promote inter-agency sharing of data as well as improvement of the data sharing frameworks in order to enhance tax compliance, and the country’s revenue collection and thereby improve the country’s economic security.
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    Factors Contributing to Youth-bulge Related Crime in Uganda
    (NDU-K, 2025) Niwamanya Johnson
    This thesis examines the complex problem of youth bulge-related crime in Uganda, emphasizing the role played by migration from rural to urban areas, urbanization, and unemployment. At an average yearly growth rate of approximately 3.29%, Uganda boasts one of the highest population growth rates globally. With a mean age of barely 19, the nation also has one of the youngest populations in the world. Of the overall population of the nation, 31.2 million are under 30 years old, making up 78% of the population. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined surveys and quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews. With a focus on Kampala City and utilizing information from primary and secondary sources, the study's conclusions highlight the intricate interactions between these factors and how they affect youth engagement in criminal activity. The study findings indicate that high levels of unemployment among the youth; youth rural-urban migration and conditions of urbanization that the youth are exposed to are the driving factors forcing the youth to engage in youth bulge related criminal activities manifested through political riots, robbery and theft, among others. Based on the data, it was determined that the Ugandan government's inability to take advantage of the youth bulge and turn it into a productive labor force for socioeconomic transformation instead has the unfavorable effect of encouraging youth-related criminal activity. The study proffers a raft of recommendations that the government and policy makers may consider so as to reap dividends from the existing youth bulge. These include reforming the education curriculum so as to produce education graduates with technical and professional skills required in the job market; providing startup capital for the youth; establishment of business incubation centers to support business start ups by the youth; and institutionalizing the National Youth Service from where the youth are given lifelong skills training to shape them into productive citizens for national development is critical. Key words: National Youth Service, youth development and youth-bulge
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    Financial Inclusion and Economic Security of East African Community States
    (National Defence University-Kenya, 2025) Kerage Peter M; "National Defence University-Kenya"
    Financial inclusion is a key pillar for financial deepening which a necessary condition for promoting national security and inclusive economic growth. Using panel data for the years 2012 to 2021, this paper explored the interplay between financial inclusion and economic security of East African Community (EAC) States. Three financial inclusion dimensions were considered, namely, usage, penetration, and availability dimensions. Furthermore, the researcher developed a composite financial inclusion index to assess the overall influence of financial inclusion components on economic security. Inflation rate, trade openness and population growth rate were incorporated in the models as control variables. Data was collected from the World Development Indicators (WDI) of the World Bank and the Financial Access Survey (FAS) of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Three countries (Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya) were selected based on availability of consistent representative data. The study employed the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) as a data analysis model. The study established that availability dimension of financial inclusion, usage dimension of financial inclusion and composite dimension of financial inclusion significantly and positively impact economic security while penetration dimension of financial inclusion improves economic security but not significantly. Furthermore, the number of bank branches, ATMs, mobile money agent outlets, mobile money transactions, outstanding deposits and moderate inflation significantly foster economic security. Findings for mobile money accounts and bank deposit accounts weaken economic security. It is recommended that EAC governments must champion for financial inclusion in their quest to combat terrorism and other criminal activities that potentially arise from financial exclusion; increase the number of credit reference bureaus (CRBs) in subregion to deal with information asymmetry and establishment of a National Commission on Financial Inclusion under the National Treasury (NT) to synchronize financial inclusion-related laws, rules, programs, and initiatives