Implication of Kenya’s Foreign Policy on National Security: A Case Study of Operation Linda Nchi

Abstract

Foreign policy decisions made by states have major ramifications for national security. This study examined the implications of Kenya’s Foreign Policy decision dubbed Operation Linda Nchi, which was made from 14th October, 2024 to March 2012 following the frequent attacks by Al-Shabaab on Kenya’s territory, on national security. The study was informed by frequent attacks by al-Shabaab that led to a shift in Kenya’s Foreign Policy. Kenya used military intervention to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. While it was expected that the intervention would improve the national security situation, the opposite happened. The study was guided by three objectives: a) To examine the reason for using armed force as a foreign policy tool b) To analyze the effects Operation Linda Nchi had on National Security c) To explore the alternative measures taken by Kenya to improve national security. The study used a mixed-methods research design. A case study approach focusing on how Operation Linda Nchi affected National Security was used. Qualitative and quantitative data from Key Informant Interviews, questionnaires and government databases was collected. The target population was personnel from government agencies including the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Interior and National Administration. Purposive sampling was used in the study to find respondents who would be willing to take part. The study employed both primary and secondary data, with the quantitative data being analysed using descriptive statistics and the qualitative data being analysed using the content analysis approach. The study found that: Kenya used armed forces as a foreign policy tool to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity after the Al-Shabaab tried to undermine it by sporadic attacks. The foreign policy did not meet its intended goals at that time but instead resulted in retaliatory attacks by the insurgent group resulting in the destruction of lives and property and an affected economy, particularly the tourism industry. Kenya sort for alternative measures to remedy the national security situation and the measures included the KDF joining AMISOM, the Nyumba Kumi initiative, Operation Usalama Watch and the use of legal and judicial measures. The study concludes that the foreign policy was not effective at the time, but with the alternative measures in place, the national security situation has improved. The study recommends the adoption of the grand strategy to balance the national security strategy and foreign policy. Also, citizens should be included in the policy formulation process to provide useful perspectives that will enhance their security as they are likely victims.