Evaluation of the Role of Science and Technology in Countering Violent Extremism: A Case Study of Kenya Defence Forces in Boni Forest Lamu County, Kenya

This study aimed to assess how science and technology contribute to coordinating multi-agency operations within Lamu County, focusing on the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) as a case study. The study specifically examined "Operation Linda Boni" (Protect Boni) and its effectiveness in addressing the persistent insecurity challenges in Lamu County, particularly in the Boni forest. Despite government investments in this operation, there has been a lack of research on the role of science and technology in dealing with the complex operating environment of the forest. The study applied institutionalization theory and Contemporary Deterrence Theory to explain how the development of formal structures within organizations can enhance their capabilities. It hypothesized that traditional military strategies were inadequate for countering the threat from the Boni forest and that new technology was necessary. A mixed methods approach combined secondary data from various sources with primary data obtained through field interviews with practitioners and experts. Both statistical and non-empirical methods were used for data analysis. The research findings suggested that the Boni forest's challenging terrain and the active presence of Al-Shabaab radicals required specialized teams equipped with modern technology for effective operations. The study also highlighted the difficulties posed by porous borders with multiple transit points, which created challenges for multi-agency teams. It recommended further research into the role of communities living along the Kenya-Somali border and the deployment of specialized teams with modern surveillance equipment for night operations in the forest terrain. Additionally, the study recommended developing a national counter-improvised explosive devices strategy to address the threat of improvised explosive devices comprehensively.