Browsing by Author "Wambere, Mwangi Elizabeth"

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    The Efficacy of Population- Centric Approach in Counterinsurgency Operations: A Case of Kenya Defense Forces in Lamu County, Kenya Between 2014 & 2024
    (Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences, 2024) Wambere, Mwangi Elizabeth
    The insurgency in Lamu County, Kenya, primarily driven by Al-Shabaab, has intensified, with over 40 attacks reported in the first quarter of 2024. This escalation has resulted in significant displacement and humanitarian challenges. The study's objectives were to: (1) assess the counterinsurgency (COIN) strategies implemented in Lamu County, (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the population-centric approach adopted by the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) in these operations, and (3) explore alternative interventions to enhance KDF's COIN efforts in the region. Utilizing the Hearts and Minds Theory and Rational Choice Theory, the research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative analysis with quantitative data. Qualitative methods such as interviews, case studies, and content analysis provided insights into the nuances of the population-centric approach. The study targeted 110,000 individuals, including KDF personnel, police officers, local community members, advocacy group managers, and county commissioners/deputy county commissioners, across Lamu town, Mpeketoni, Witu, Hindi, and Kiunga. A sample of 384 respondents was selected using Fisher’s formula and stratified random sampling, consisting of 78 KDF personnel, 52 police officers, 233 local community members, 20 advocacy group managers, and 1 county/sub-county commissioner. The study found a strong consensus on the effectiveness of the KDF's population-centric approach, with 96.1% of respondents noting improved community trust and 97.4% recognizing enhanced security. Positive perceptions of military tactics (94.8%) and KDF-community cooperation (97.4%) were widespread, although challenges in addressing grievances remained. There was significant support (76.7%) for non-military interventions, particularly economic and educational initiatives, highlighting the importance of psychological operations (93.5%) and community trust-building (98.7%) in COIN efforts. The study recommends enhancing community engagement, expanding socio-economic initiatives, integrating non-military strategies, and improving psychological operations. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of these approaches, specific socio-economic interventions, and detailed psychological operations.