Combating Terrorism in Kenya: Dialogue with Determinants of Adoption in the Multi-Agency Approach to Security

Abstract

The adoption of a multi-agency approach in combating terrorism in Kenya has been praised as transformative. Despite this positive assessment, the motivation behind this adoption by security actors remain unclear. This article employs a descriptive cross-sectional research design to explore the determinants that led to the implementation of the multi-agency strategy in the fight against terrorism. Data were collected through questionnaires and interview guides, from a sample of 306 participants drawn from Kenya’s disciplined forces who are tasked with the national security. The findings reveal that the decision to adopt a multi-agency approach was significantly influenced by the need to leverage the unique capabilities of each security agency, the documented successes of similar approaches globally, and the necessity to synchronize operations among Kenya’s diverse security agencies. The research study concludes that the relative strengths of each security agency and the imperative for operational synergy were key factors driving the adoption of the multi-agency approach in Kenya's counter-terrorism efforts