Analysis of Community Participation in Cross-Border Security: A Case of Kenya- Somalia Border (2014 – 2024).
Loading...
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
The study sought to analyze community participation in cross border security along the Kenya-Somalia border. The study specifically aimed at examining the state of cross-border security in border, evaluating community participation in security programs, and assessing government security initiatives with regard to community participation. An exploratory convergent mixed methods research design was adopted. The study targeted 30,100 common border community where a sample size of 380 was utilized in the study. Additionally, both community leaders and elders and security personnel were targeted. The study employed questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews to gather data. Questionnaires were administered to common border communities while focused group discussions involved community leaders and elders and interviews from key informants comprising of security personnel. Quantitative data analysis technique was applied in analyzing quantitative data while content analysis was utilized in analyzing the qualitative data. The study utilized tables and figures to display the results. The study established that respondents were well-informed about the security threats affecting their areas. The main security threats identified and ranked from highest to the lowest comprised of terrorism, smuggling, kidnappings, cattle rustling, and banditry. The study further established existence of a high level of community engagement and participation in community-based security initiatives and discussions. The common border community participated in the security matters through participating in community policing forums, organizing neighborhood watch programs, inter-community dialogues and in public safety campaigns. Focus group discussions participated in cross-border security forums, establishing and maintaining early warning systems, and mediating conflicts to prevent escalation. Key informants confirmed their involvement in community policing forums, border patrol collaborations, conducting security workshops and seminars, and introducing technology for reporting incidents and receiving updates. The findings also revealed that the most significant barrier to community participation in security efforts was identified to be fear of reprisals from criminal groups, followed by cultural or social factors, then lack of awareness about security initiatives, then lack of trust in law enforcement and finally others. The study revealed that there was awareness of very effective government-led security initiatives in the area aiming at enhancing security in the border. The initiatives were however both beneficial and detrimental to the community. The study concluded that community participation of both common border residents, leaders and elders, backed up by security personnel and government initiatives in cross border community was imperative. The study recommended establishment of regular dialogue channels between security forces and residents. Additionally, there is a need for the implementation of initiatives that demonstrate respect for cultural sensitivities and a commitment to the well-being of border communities. The study also recommends training and equipping traditional leaders and community influencers to act as liaisons between residents and security forces. Similarly, the study advocates for providing residents with accessible tools for communication where security forces can gather real-time information and improve response times. The study recommends investment in education, healthcare, and economic development projects in border communities to reduce poverty. On the government initiatives, the study recommends transparency and accountability in government actions. To note, communities are more likely to cooperate if they trust the intentions and methods of security forces. Similarly, a reduction in the use of heavy-handed tactics and prioritize community engagement in planning and implementing security measures which may reduce resentment and fosters a collaborative approach. There is also a need to address forced displacements caused by security operations which often become more vulnerable and less likely to cooperate with security forces.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
Keywords
community participation, government security initiatives, cross-border security
Citation
Okumu, A. O. (2024). Analysis of Community Participation in Cross-Border Security: A Case of Kenya- Somalia Border (2014 – 2024). Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences.