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Afforestation as a Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy in Isiolo County, Kenya: Challenges and Opportunities
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025-10) Abdullahi Hassan Osman; Israel Nyadera; Stephen Mailu
The aim of this study was to examine afforestation as a climate change mitigation and adaptation strategy in Isiolo County, focusing on its evolution, the challenges limiting its implementation, and the opportunities that can be harnessed to improve its effectiveness. The study also sought to demonstrate how afforestation contributes to building resilience in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), where recurrent droughts, land degradation, and dependence on natural resources increase vulnerability to climate change. Over the past few years, afforestation programmes have been launched to curb climate impacts in ASALs. The study was guided by three objectives: to investigate the evolution of afforestation as a climate change mitigation strategy in Kenya; to assess challenges facing its implementation in ASALs; and to establish opportunities for enhancing its effectiveness. Anchored on Ecosystem Restoration Theory, a mixed-method research design was applied with a sample size of 80 participants. Data was collected through questionnaires, analyzed descriptively, and presented in tables. Findings show afforestation programmes have improved in ASALs; however, their main challenge is the frequency and intensity of natural hazards. Opportunities lie in proactive governance through climate-sensitive policies and legislation. The study concludes that afforestation has evolved as a key climate change response, but its impact is limited by environmental and institutional barriers. It recommends policies linking afforestation to economic outcomes for local communities and stresses the need for regular maintenance practices such as weeding, thinning, pruning, and fire prevention to strengthen sustainability.
The Role of Military Quick Impact Projects in the Enhancement of Human Security: A Case Study of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in North-Eastern Nigeria
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-12) Rufai Umar Mairiga; Mwasi Mwanyika; Caroline Gatobu
In post-war or conflict-ridden areas, the distinction between a military approach and a humanitarian approach is becoming increasingly ambiguous. This paper examines how Military Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) used in the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have helped to improve human security in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria, which is devastated by the insurgency of the Boko Haram. Although QIPs are advocated as a winning of hearts and minds approach in counterinsurgency (COIN) doctrine, their effectiveness in providing sustainable human security results is controversial. Based on a mixed-methods approach, with a survey of 422 stakeholders and in-depth interviews, this study evaluates QIPs in a seven-dimensional human security framework. Results show that QIPs have already attained significant short-term returns on rebuilding critical infrastructure, delivering first-line services and building initial trust. Their long-term effectiveness is, however, severely compromised by structural flaws, such as a lack of community ownership, poor interagency coordination, poor monitoring and evaluation and a short-term mismatch with the long-term development planning. Theoretically, the paper uses the Public Goods Theory (PGT) to reveal that although QIPs are expected to deliver public goods such as infrastructure, the lack of inclusivity and interagency rivalry makes it highly vulnerable in the real world due to politicized implementation and sustainability issues. The research concludes that in order to enable the QIPs to go beyond the level of utility within a tactical approach and to make a significant contribution to human security, a paradigm shift to a more collaborative, community-based and strategically patient approach is necessary. Suggestions are provided regarding including QIPs in a more civilian-based framework of stabilization.
Interface Between Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and National Security in Nepal
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-06) Pushpa Raj Bhandari; Bernard Adero
This study investigates the implications of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) on national security in Nepal, with a particular focus on their cascading effects on human security. The central research question guiding this inquiry is: How do GLOFs impact human security, and what are their cascading effects on national security in Nepal? A mixed-methods research approach was employed, utilizing an explanatory sequential design. The quantitative component involved statistical analysis of secondary data and survey responses, focusing on the frequency and intensity of GLOFs and their impacts on infrastructure, livelihoods, and socio economic stability. The qualitative component consisted of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including disaster management officials, climate experts, and community representatives, to contextualize and enrich the quantitative findings. The study was conducted across eight high-risk Himalayan districts. A sample of 450 respondents was determined using Cochran’s formula. In addition, three focus group discussions were conducted to gain deeper qualitative insights. The findings underscore the exacerbating influence of climate change and accelerated glacial melting in the Himalayas, which heighten the risks associated with glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs). These events have profound consequences for human security, thereby contributing to broader national security vulnerabilities. The study identifies significant gaps in Nepal’s disaster risk management framework and calls for a paradigm shift in preparedness strategies. Recommendations include implementing comprehensive risk assessments, establishing robust early warning systems, developing climate-resilient infrastructure, and implementing community-based adaptation measures to enhance resilience.
Effect of Kenya’s External Debt Sustainability on Militarisation and Crime Rate in Kenya (1993-2023): A Time Series Analysis
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-12) Mwende Mwendwa; Stephen Handa; Paul M. Gachanja
In this paper, the complex relationship between external debt sustainability and national security outcomes in Kenya is addressed through an analysis of indicators of militarisation and crime rates. The study examines the direct and indirect effects of debt sustainability on security outcomes from 1993 to 2023, focusing on militarisation and from 2004 to 2023, on crime rates, using Vector Autoregressive (VAR) models with time series data. Diagnostic tests, such as the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test, KPSS test, Johansen cointegration analysis and multiple lag selection criteria, were used to pre-estimate the absence of long-term relationships among the variables, thereby justifying the use of the VAR method over alternative models. The findings indicate complicated interactions: although the external debt sustainability does not have a direct impact of any importance on existing military spending or the crime rate, there are crucial feedbacks via socio-economic mediators. Historical military expenditure has a positive impact on external debt (14.79, p < 0.10), indicating that security investments are counterintuitive to fiscal sustainability. Urbanisation negatively impacts debt sustainability (-594.36, p < 0.05), indicating demographic pressures on fiscal resources. Research indicates that important debt-to-GDP levels are between 55% and 60%, at which security effects become increasingly evident in a non-linear manner. Combined with the results, the sustainability of debt in the area is the primary factor affecting security through indirect channels (including unemployment, urbanisation and budgeting restrictions), rather than having direct budget implications. Policy recommendations, such as the institution of integrated debt-security monitoring tools, targeted intervention in high-risk cities and flexible military budget preparation that takes into account fiscal sustainability levels, can be suggested. The study can help maximise the knowledge of the impacts of fiscal constraints spilling over to security lapses in developing economies.
Strategic Modelling for High-Technology Sectors: Addressing Economic Security in Emerging Economies amidst US-China Geopolitical Competition
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-06) Iftekhar Alam; Raphael Ziro Mwatela; Paul Mwangi Gachanja
This paper presents a quantified strategic model to support emerging economies in enhancing economic security and technological self-reliance in high-technology sectors, using the semiconductor industry as a primary case study. Situated in the context of intensifying US- China geopolitical competition, the study analyses the readiness of India and Kenya to develop resilient semiconductor ecosystems. A mixed-methods approach, combining literature review, stakeholder surveys, and expert validation, informs the development of a weighted scoring model that captures the influence of geopolitical dynamics, domestic capabilities, and regional collaboration on economic outcomes. Findings reveal that, while India demonstrates moderate readiness through policy initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, significant gaps remain in R&D investment and advanced manufacturing. Kenya, though at an earlier stage, demonstrates potential through digital infrastructure projects like Konza Technopolis but faces foundational challenges in capacity building and policy alignment. The study further generalises the model to other high-tech sectors such as renewable energy, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence, offering a scalable framework for policymakers. By identifying priority areas and proposing a structured implementation roadmap, this study contributes actionable insights for emerging economies seeking to navigate technological transitions and build resilient, globally competitive high-tech industries.
Institutional Settings and Forest Conservation in Kenya: Multiple Gazettement Questions
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-12) Blessington Maghanga; Charles Imbiakha
The study explored the effects of various gazettements on the conservation of forests in Kenya with cases of Shimba Hills Forest in Kwale County, Marsabit Forest in Marsabit County and the Hombe Forest in Nyeri County. Multiple gazettement, which here can be defined as two or more forests with two or more institutions having separate policies and mandates, was studied to determine its implications for governance and conservation. The research examined the laws and regulations, formal (enactments and regulations) as well as informal (customs) that affect the conservation of forests in different gazetted forest areas in Kenya. The study utilised a qualitative approach, based on a case study design that was used to collect information by interviewing key informants (policy implementers) and conducting focus groups with the representatives of community-based organisations. The research establishes that the legal disputes between the Kenya Forest Service, the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Kenya Water Towers Agency are confusing, hence undermining enforcement and decreasing community confidence. Sacred groves, tree taboos and seasonal use rules are still practised, but are in many instances neglected through a formal planning process. The results signify the necessity to harmonise laws and to work closely with other agencies and to formally acknowledge traditional practices, or additional evaluation is needed to comprehend why some respondents mentioned that it would be better to roll back to single gazettement.
Regional Integration and Economic Security: Evaluating Kenya’s Experience under the EAC Framework
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-06) Bennacate Chibole Andanje; Stephen Handa; Nyaburi Nyadera
This study investigates the impact of East African Community (EAC) integration on Kenya’s economic security by evaluating the outcomes of the Customs Union, Common Market, and proposed Monetary Union. Utilising a mixed-methods design that integrates survey data (n = 170), semi-structured interviews (n = 15), and macroeconomic indicators (2010–2024), the study develops a composite Economic Security Index (ESI) encompassing trade efficiency, labour mobility, and fiscal health. Findings show that Kenya’s ESI improved from 52.1 in 2010 to 68.4 in 2023, with the Common Market—especially labour mobility—emerging as the strongest driver (β = 0.402). However, progress remains uneven: the manufacturing and logistics sectors benefited from adherence to the Common External Tariff, while agriculture lagged due to persistent non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and phytosanitary disputes. Monetary integration showed the weakest impact, constrained by inflation divergence and fiscal asymmetries among member states. The study extends Balassa’s (1961) integration model by revealing asymmetric policy spillovers and the critical role of institutional enforcement. Qualitative data expose regulatory fragmentation, informal payments at borders, and licensing delays that hinder professional mobility. Policy recommendations include digitising customs via blockchain, establishing mutual recognition agreements, and capitalising a regional small and medium enterprises credit guarantee fund. These insights offer a nuanced understanding of regional integration’s potential and limitations in advancing economic security in Africa.
Armed Non-State Actors in Eastern DRC and Diplomatic Relations in the Great Lakes Region
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-12) Anech Mubangizi
Armed non-state actors (ANSAs) are one of the most consistent threats to peace, security and diplomacy in weak states, although their influence on interstate relations is a debated phenomenon. This paper discusses the implications of ANSAs on the diplomatic relations in the Great Lakes Region (GLR), especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the other neighbours, Uganda and Rwanda. Even though the activities of such groups as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the Democratic Forces to Liberation of Rwanda (DFLR), the March 23 Movement (M23) and the Mai-Mai militias are commonly associated with the destabilisation of the region, it is not clear how much the actions of these groups cause diplomatic tensions rather than are merely an instrument of the states. The study uses the mixed-methods design; survey data, interviews and secondary sources to question these dynamics. The results have shown that ANSAs are politically, economically, ethnically and ideologically oriented, and the economic factors, especially illegal mining and smuggling, have become prevailing. However, not only are their cross-border movement, territorial domination and violent operations a challenge to the sovereignty; they also expose deeper structural vulnerabilities in regional governance and immoral trust processes. The regional and international organisations are still involved, but limited by a lack of vigorous enforcement and conflicting interests of the member states, which creates doubts about the efficiency of multilateral responses. Civil society may seem to be the most important in the mediation of tensions; however, it does not necessarily participate in formal diplomacy. The conclusion part of the study is terminated with recommendations, which include collaboration of the regions, intelligence sharing, collective military approaches, dialogue with the community and external assistance as possible solutions to sustainable diplomatic relations within the GLR.
East African Community Regional Force and Southern African Development Community Mission in Northern Mozambique in enhancing Security in the Regions Abdihakim
(A Journal of the National Defence University-Kenya, 2025-12) Abdihakim Rashid Kassim; Mumo Nzau; Cliff Obwogi
The study sought to analyse the contributions of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) and the Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIM) to security in the Great Lakes and Southern Africa regions, respectively. The neoliberalism theory underpinned the study. This study adopted a comparative case study design embedded within a mixed-methods research approach. A comparative case study design was applied to enable an in-depth, contextually grounded analysis of multiple PSOs across Africa, highlighting both convergences and divergences in performance. The target population for the study included military personnel directly and indirectly involved with the EACRF and SAMIM missions, non-military personnel (such as civilian police), local government officials, community leaders and representatives in the countries of operations of the two missions, subject matter experts, scholars and representatives from international and national NGOs. Through purposive sampling, a sample of 85 participants was obtained using the Cochran Formula. Content analysis was used to analyse secondary data, while quantitative data was examined using descriptive statistics. The conclusions of the study were that both EACRF and SAMIM contributed significantly to peace and security in the region, but their overall contribution was limited because of systemic issues. For instance, EACRF did not make considerable progress in the achievement of its objectives largely due to logistical challenges and political differences, its short lifespan notwithstanding. On the other hand, SAMIM achieved greater security gains due to its longer presence. Both missions exhibited quantifiable but contentious roles in the security of the region, with the views of the stakeholders strongly divided. EACRF, with its community-centric approach, enhanced local reconciliation, conflict resolution and the strengthening of governance. However, it faced considerable scepticism from the public. In contrast, the multidimensional approach of SAMIM that integrates the efforts in the area of economic opportunities, counterinsurgency and governance reform has had a more balanced, yet more nuanced impact profile. Although the progress of regional cooperation is still relatively modest, both missions suggest that the greater success in the long run will probably be pegged on additional integration of economic development initiatives to work on the root causes of disparities and maintain stability.
Gender Dynamics in Countering Violent Extremism: Insights from Local Communities in Isiolo County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2024-10) Zadock Wambua Kavemba; Mumo Nzau; Emmanuel Kondoltiony
Countering violent extremism (CVE) has become a significant concern globally, with various strategies being explored to address the root causes of radicalization. In regions like Isiolo County, Kenya, gender dynamics play a pivotal role in influencing both vulnerability to and engagement in efforts to combat extremism. Gender-sensitive approaches have been increasingly recognized for their potential to enhance the effectiveness of CVE interventions by addressing the social, economic, and political inequalities that contribute to radicalization. This study investigates Gender Dynamics in Countering Violent Extremism: Insights from Local Communities in Isiolo County, Kenya, utilizing a feminist security theory framework. The objective of the study is to explore how gender influences the effectiveness of CVE strategies and to identify the factors that enable women’s active involvement in CVE. A mixed-methods approach, including surveys, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions, was used to gather perspectives from individuals directly or indirectly affected by violent extremist activities, as well as key informants involved in CVE initiatives. The study finds that promoting gender equality, fostering inclusive community dialogue, addressing underlying social issues, empowering women in leadership roles, and engaging men and boys in challenging traditional gender norms are critical to enhancing women’s participation in CVE. These findings underscore the importance of adopting a gender-sensitive approach to CVE, which recognizes and tackles the intersecting social, economic, and political factors driving violent extremism. Key recommendations include implementing governance reforms to promote gender equality, expanding educational and economic opportunities for women, fostering inclusive dialogues, and engaging men and boys in promoting positive masculinity. These insights contribute to broader discussions on gender-responsive approaches to security and peacebuilding, highlighting specific strategies to strengthen women’s roles in preventing and countering violent extremism in Isiolo County.
Evaluating the Role of Rehabilitation Programs in the Post-Release Reintegration of Female Prisoners at Lang'ata Women Prison, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025-06) Yusuf Kaitopok; Resila Atieno Onyango; Cliff Obwogi
This study examined the role of rehabilitation programs in supporting the post-release reintegration of female prisoners at Lang’ata Women Prison, Kenya. Drawing on rehabilitation theory and restorative justice principles, the research uses a mixed-methods approach, involving surveys of inmates and staff (n = 198) and in-depth interviews with formerly incarcerated women and prison personnel. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings reveal that vocational training in tailoring, baking, and ICT provides valuable skills for employment. Psychosocial interventions, such as counselling and maternal care, improve emotional resilience, while enhanced healthcare and nutrition support physical wellbeing. However, many women face significant reintegration challenges due to the lack of transitional housing, limited employment linkages, and community stigma. These systemic gaps undermine the sustainability of rehabilitation outcomes and increase the risk of recidivism. The study recommends establishing a structured “Continuum of Care” framework that includes halfway houses, partnerships with employers, micro enterprise support, and community reintegration initiatives. Institutionalizing these components can bridge the gap between prison rehabilitation and successful reintegration, reduce repeat offenses, and strengthen Kenya’s correctional justice system in line with restorative justice goals.
Assessing the Effectiveness of East African Community Interventions in Combating Economic Crimes in Tanzania
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2025-08) Peter Yohana Mrio; Stephen Handa; Emmanuel Psongol Kondoltiony
The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of the East African Community (EAC) interventions in combating economic crimes in Tanzania, with a focus on the performance of collaborative mechanisms among EAC law enforcement agencies. Guided by collective action theory and rational choice theory, the research employed a mixed-methods design, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data were gathered from key stakeholders such as law enforcement personnel, policymakers, legal professionals, and civil society representatives using structured interviews and questionnaires. The sampling strategy combined both probability and non-probability techniques to ensure a balanced representation. Ethical standards were upheld through institutional approval and informed consent procedures. Findings indicate that while formal structures for regional cooperation exist, their effectiveness is undermined by bureaucratic red tape, limited technological capacity, and insufficient political will. These obstacles impede efficient intelligence-sharing and coordination across borders, weakening the region's overall response to economic crime. The study recommends enhancing institutional capacity through increased funding, specialized training, and the integration of advanced technologies. Strengthening regional cooperation through improved communication and intelligence-sharing is essential, as is reinforcing political commitment to combat corruption and promote accountability. Public engagement should be heightened through awareness campaigns involving civil society and the private sector. Finally, the study advocates for the creation of a centralized EAC Economic Crimes Unit to lead and coordinate regional anti-crime initiatives.
Stakeholder Participation Mechanisms in Foreign Policy Decision-Making: Lessons from Kenya’s EACRF Deployment
(The Eastern Africa Journal of Policy and Strategy, 2025-12) Wamuyu Ndururi; Caroline Kathure Gatobu; Mumo Nzau
This article examined the role of stakeholder participation mechanisms in foreign policy decision-making, focusing on the deployment of Kenya’s contingent (KENCON) under the East African Community Regional Force in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The general purpose was to investigate how diverse stakeholders influence foreign policy processes within the framework of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. It specifically sought to (i) identify the constitutional frameworks guiding foreign policy decision-making, (ii) analyse the role of key stakeholders in influencing the KENCON deployment decision, (iii) evaluate the effectiveness of public engagement platforms in facilitating stakeholder participation, and (iv) propose strategies to strengthen inclusive foreign policy decision-making. Anchored in public choice theory and constructivism, the study applied a qualitative approach using case study design. Data were collected from 188 respondents who included government officials, military personnel, policy analysts, civil society representatives and members of the public. The data collection instruments used were questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used. The study identified barriers to effective participation which included institutional capacity constraints, information asymmetries and political culture factors. The findings also indicated that despite the existence of stakeholder mechanisms in theory, in practice they are weak, symbolic and dominated by executive actors. The study proposed a comprehensive stakeholder engagement framework that incorporates multi-tiered consultation processes, enhanced information sharing mechanisms and strengthened institutional capacity for public participation. This framework would address the need for balancing security imperatives with democratic accountability while ensuring meaningful stakeholder engagement in foreign policy formulation.
The Role of Research and Development in the Manufacturing Sector in Fostering Technological Innovation and Economic Security in Ethiopia
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025-10) Tegegn D. Toge; Joseph Mutungi; Paul Gachanja
This study investigates the critical nexus between Research and Development (R&D), technological innovation, and economic security within Ethiopia's manufacturing sector. Despite ambitious national plans to become a lower-middle-income country and a regional manufacturing hub, the sector's contribution to GDP remains low, hampered by low productivity, technological stagnation, and weak innovation capabilities. Employing a mixed-methods case study design, this research collected data from 30 senior officials and researchers across five specialized manufacturing R&D institutes and 9 key informant interviews. The findings reveal a significant systemic disconnect: while Ethiopia has established a structured R&D institutional framework, it is severely hampered by chronic underinvestment (only 0.61% of GDP), weak linkages between academia and industry, and a policy implementation gap. Consequently, promising R&D outputs, such as waste valorization technologies and AI-driven quality control prototypes, fail to achieve commercial scale and transformative impact. The study concludes that without strategic interventions to boost funding, foster robust industry, academia and government manufacturing industry R&D institutes collaboration, and create effective commercialization pathways, Ethiopia's manufacturing R&D will continue to fall short of driving the technological innovation necessary for enhanced productivity, competitiveness, and long-term economic security. Recommendations include increasing R&D expenditure to at least 1% of GDP, implementing targeted policy incentives for private-sector involvement, and establishing formalized triple-helix partnerships to bridge the existing innovation chasm.
The Effectiveness of IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) on Environmental Security in the Greater Horn of Africa
(International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR), 2024) Swaleh Mwachidagaya; Rotich Gladys Chepkirui
A comprehensive analysis of Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Climate Prediction and Applications Center (ICPAC) initiatives in the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA) is necessitated by the existing climatic challenges in the region. The program was developed with an aim at enhancing environmental security through climate prediction. This review delves into the different initiatives within ICPAC and their impact in addressing environmental threats within the IGAD region. A region that is known for its vulnerability to climate change and variability which has posed significant threat to the environment, livelihoods and sustainable development. This analysis assesses the impact of ICPAC's work on environmental security by thoroughly examining the organization's efforts to increase the accuracy of climate predictions, fortify early warning systems, and encourage adaptive methods. This study emphasizes the significance of scientific innovation and regional cooperation in solving climate-related concerns in the Greater Horn of Africa by combining existing research, reports, and case studies. The study in its findings highlights the need for an elaborate monitoring and evaluation framework that will advise policy and shape up future programs. There has also been an indication of inadequate awareness programs for communities to be able to fully explore the benefits that ICPAC is aimed at delivering.
Prosecutorial Efficiency in Terrorism Cases in Kenya: Legal and Institutional Challenges
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025-07) Robert Oyiembo; Dennis Ndambo; Gladys Rotich
This study investigates the factors influencing prosecutorial efficiency in handling terrorism cases in Kenya, focusing on the causes of trial delays and the impact of prosecutorial discretion on the constitutional right to a speedy trial. The addressed problem is the delays in terrorism-related trials, facilities like the legal framework represented by the Prevention of Terrorism Act (2012) are already in place. The study employs mixed-methods design, pairing qualitative interviews with 24 prosecutors, 16 judges as well as 40 defense attorneys, with quantitative statistics gathered via surveys, in order to examine the correlation between prosecutorial decisions and trial delay. The findings reveal that resource constraints, lack of specialized training, poor coordination between agencies, and political interference are the primary factors contributing to the inefficiency of terrorism prosecutions. The backlog of cases, lack of funds and inadequate dedicated terrorism courts especially worsen delay in trials. As a solution, the study proposes enhancing funding given to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP), offering professionalized education to legal practitioners, better inter-agency collaboration and more specially set-up terrorism courts to face the peculiar circumstances of terrorism cases. These recommendations would enable the criminal justice system in Kenya to realize trials that are timely, fulfill the right to a speedy trial and enhance the general effectiveness of terrorism-related crimes.
Linking Infrastructure to Livelihoods: Assessing the Influence of Infrastructure Development on Socio-Economic Security in Taita Taveta County, Kenya
(Journal International of Social Science & Humanities, 2025-07) Omondi, Truphosa Apondi; Raphael Z. Mwatela; Peterlinus O. Odote
This study investigated the influence of mega infrastructural development projects on socio-economic security in Taita Taveta County, Kenya, with a focus on road, rail, and housing sectors. Employing a descriptive cross sectional design, the research combined quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from 414 respondents across Voi, Taveta, Mwatate, and Wundanyi sub-counties. The findings reveal that road and housing infrastructure have had a positive and statistically significant impact on socio-economic security by enhancing access to essential services, creating employment opportunities, and improving overall household welfare. In contrast, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project exhibited limited socio-economic benefits due to weak integration with local economic systems and minimal community engagement during planning and implementation. The study concludes that while infrastructure is a key enabler of development, its socio economic impact depends on equitable distribution, functionality, and local relevance. It recommends that future projects be guided by inclusive planning, targeted outreach to underserved areas, and alignment with local livelihoods to ensure sustainable and inclusive socio-economic gains.
Health Security at Risk: Assessing Infrastructure and Operational Gaps in Refugee Immunizations Services in Dadaab
(The HORN Bulletin, 2025-08) Michelle A. Sagala; Michael Sitawa; Joyce Jebet
Vaccination is vital to public health security, especially in refugee settings where health systems are often weak. This study examined health system barriers influencing vaccination uptake among caregivers of children aged 0–14 years in the Dadaab refugee complex, Kenya. A mixed-methods design was used, combining data from 380 survey respondents and qualitative inputs from key informant interviews and a focus group discussion. Findings revealed wide disparities in vaccine coverage across camps, Dagahaley (99.1%), Hagadera (65.0%), and Ifo (22.0%), attributed to inconsistent healthcare delivery, workforce shortages, and access barriers. Multivariate analysis showed that camp location and incomplete immunization histories significantly predicted low uptake. Qualitative data highlighted additional barriers, including language gaps, poor coordination, and mistrust. Despite vaccine availability, systemic inequities persist. Strengthening routine services, improving access, and fostering community engagement are essential for improving vaccine uptake and enhancing health security in refugee settings.
Assessing the Impact of Government Security Policies on the Frequency and Severity of Al-Shabaab Attacks in Mandera County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025) Mohamed Sirat Yussuf; Peterlinus Ouma Odote; James Kimuyu
This study evaluates the impact of government security policies and programs on the frequency and severity of Al-Shabaab attacks in Mandera County, Kenya, from 2014 to 2024. Researchers collected quantitative and qualitative data by carrying out structured questionnaires among 250 respondents and interviews with key informants. According to the results, only 21.6% of people are aware of counterterrorism policies put in place by the government. Most participants thought that attacks from Al-Shabaab were very severe (65%), but part of them expressed uncertainty about the effectiveness of those actions (24.8%) and part of them felt the measures were not enough (46.4%). Results from regression analysis showed that a bigger military presence (β = 0.358) and stronger border patrols (β = 0.283) strongly reduced the number of terrorist activities, but surveillance technologies influenced them to a moderate degree only (β = 0.276). Research suggests that government support and community-based activities had only a small impact which might result from poor decisions about using resources and making policies. Improving security outcomes was found to rely on stronger collaboration and the exchange of information between the police and the community. Based on the findings, sustaining effective counterterrorism work in Mandera County requires having military, community and inter-agency strengths, plus programs to educate the public.
Strategic Determinants of Military Effectiveness in Fragile States: The Case of Somalia
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2025-10) Mohamed Ali Barise; Mugah Michael Sitawa; Charles Imbiakha
The military efficacy in fragile nations is influenced by a confluence of strategic, institutional, and contextual factors that affect the capacity of armed forces to maintain stability and fulfil national security goals. Somalia's prolonged war, fragile governmental frameworks, and foreign involvement have posed significant obstacles to the establishment of a competent military. This article analyses how elements like as leadership, resource mobilisation, training and professionalism, institutional coherence, and the influence of foreign relationships affect the performance of Somali National Army. It underscores the influence of political instability, clan dynamics, and tenuous governance on military operations and strategic planning. The article examines how Somalia's dependence on foreign entities, notably the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia and international donors, has influenced its military capabilities and strategic goals. Research reveals that while external funding has improved capabilities in logistics, training, and equipment supply, excessive reliance on foreign aid jeopardises long-term sustainability and independence. The paper asserts that enhancing Somalia's military efficacy requires a comprehensive approach that incorporates political stability, institutional changes, and capacity-building programs suited to the nation's precarious circumstances.

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