Assessing the Effectiveness of Local-Based Approaches Adopted Towards Addressing Terrorism in Lamu County, Kenya and Baadadhe District, Somalia
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Date
2024-02-18
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of Empirical Research
Abstract
In the global context, terrorism has evolved into a complex and transnational threat. Al-Shabaab posed significant threats,
particularly to East African countries, due to its capacity for numerous attacks in Somalia and neighboring nations. Despite
employing alternative strategies, such as a multiagency and comprehensive government approach to tackle terrorism in Lamu and
Baadadhe, acts of terror persisted in the region. The study explored the efficacy of a populace-centered approach in curbing
terrorism in Somalia and Kenya. The populace-centered approach aimed to actively involve the local population in Lamu County,
Basuba Ward, in socio-economic development initiated by security personnel to address the root cause of insecurity problems. The
approach was guided by the Securitization theory, System theory, and Power theory, which held a significant relationship with the
terror threats and insecurity challenges in Lamu County and Baadadhe district. The study employed a descriptive research design
with stratified sampling, with target population 4506 and a sample size of 363 obtained through Slovin sampling formula. It gathered
stakeholders' perspectives through questionnaires, interviews, and group discussions. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses .
Quantitative data was analyzed through statistical analysis while qualitative data was analyzed thematic analysis. The analysis
revealed community responses to terrorism, including physical and cyber threats, through initiatives like neighborhood watch
groups and religious collaborations. The study highlighted the importance of strengthening existing structures like neighborhood
watch groups and enhancing collaborations with religious leaders and schools. The study concluded that the populace involvement
in countering terrorism in Lamu, Kenya and Baadadhe, Somalia reflects a vigilant and multifaceted approach encompassing various
aspects, from physical to cyber threats. Further, the research concluded that populace-centered approach is effective in curbing
terrorism through information sharing. The study recommended for active involvement of community leaders in security committees
and advocated for a legal framework supporting a populace-centered approach to counter-terrorism. Policymakers and security
agencies should consider diverse economic and environmental contexts in Lamu County, Kenya, Baadadhe, Somalia