Determinants of Effectiveness of Inter-agency Cooperation as a Counter-terrorism Strategy in Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the determinants of effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation as a counter-terrorism strategy in Kenya. Specifically, it aimed to determine the effectiveness of information sharing among the security agencies as a counter-terrorism strategy in Kenya, and to establish the effectiveness of joint training as a counterterrorism strategy in Kenya. This study adopted the social contract theory. This study adopted a cross-sectional study, where individuals or groups are observed at one specific point in time survey design was used. This study was conducted in Nairobi County, where it targeted security agencies departments dealing with counter terrorism in Kenya. Purposive sampling method was used to develop the sample of the study. The sample population size (n) was 370 respondents. Both primary and secondary data was used in this study. The Primary data was obtained by administering to the key informants with both open and closed ended structured questionnaire. Secondary data was obtained from examining publications of books, journals, internet websites, government documents, papers presented at conferences, periodicals, reports and academic papers relevant to the study. This study employed the use of quantitative techniques, where systematic scientific numerical information was used. The collected data was converted to numerical information through coding, and then analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) Edition 20.0. Converting the research data into statistical information made it easy to manipulate and interpret under different conditions like charts, graphs, percentages, and frequencies figures. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data into common themes. The study found that majority of the security agencies have intelligence unit within their organizations and they all strongly believe that intelligence sharing is effective in countering terrorism. The most preferred method of information sharing was through formal head of department and formally inter-agency analysts. Joint training enhances effective response to counter terrorism, most of the respondents from all security agencies are aware of existence of joint training programmes. Frequent conduct of relevant training to qualified and suitable participants yields positive results in responding and coordination of terror attacks. The study concluded that joint training enhances effective response to counter terrorism and that all security agencies are aware of existence of joint training programmes. Frequent conduct of relevant training to qualified and suitable participants yields positive results in responding and coordination of terror attacks. The research recommended that Kenya and other relevant stakeholders develop national counter-violent extremism and terrorism plans that reflect a multi-agency approach among government agencies, NGOs, religious groups, communities, and affected populations. In addition, the report suggests that security agencies be audited and scrutinized to verify that they are well-qualified and trained for their various roles. Furthermore, the study advises lawmakers to reinforce anti-terrorism laws and draft new ones in light of terrorism's evolving capabilities and activists.