Role of Civil Society Organizations in Countering Violent Extremism: Case of Coast Region, Kenya

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.