Community Policing and Security in Kenya: Case Study of Ngong’ Sub-county, 2003-2013

Abstract

Derivative practices over various places in the world shows that Community Based Policing (CBP) programs have enhanced increase in interaction of police and members of community and as such reducing incidences of insecurity, crime and other related social disorders. A critical look at the existing research on the CBP program-reduction of incidences of insecurity nexus however shows that the studies are far from conclusive on the role the program play in reducing insecurity in various places in Kenya. It is within this context, that this study assessed the impact of CBP program in insecurity reduction in Ngong Sub County from 2003 to 2013. The study found out that the introduction of CBP program in Ngong Sub County had effect on insecurity reduction in the area. The study also within the broad framework assessed and analyzed some of the challenges that hindered successful implementation of CBP program in the area of study. This is in cognizant that relative little attention is devoted scholarly in examining some of the challenges that are faced during implementation of the program in Kenya. The study exploited literature on previous studies on the impact of CBP program in other places for the purpose of getting a clear picture and some clarity on the same in the study area. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling were used to collect data. Representative sample of 180 respondents from five main locations in Ngong Sub County was drawn. The sample was composed of some residents of the area, some members of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and some members of security agencies. Using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) during analysis, the study employed descriptive and inferential statistics. In focusing on the case study of the area, the study broadens the existing scholarship on the linkages between CBP program and security in Kenya. Exploring the linkages between CBP program and security is furthermore critical in formulation of appropriate interventions to counter crime and insecurity problems in the country and beyond. The study recommended that CBP program should be strengthened through increasing budgetary allocation and involving all major stakeholders in policing matters in community.