Promoting peace and security in Africa: impact of small arms and light weapons in Kenya

Abstract

In full appreciation of the multiplicity of challenges afflicting the African Continent, this study focusses on the promotion of peace and security in Africa, with an assessment of the impact of illicit SALW in Kenya. This study, is focused on the broad objective of promoting peace and security in Africa, with a special attention on analysis of the impact of illicit SALW in Kenya. The study is further informed by three specific objectives which include, evaluating the status of and impediments to peace and security on the African continent. Secondly, this study assesses the impact of illicit SALW in Kenya. Last but not least, this study identifies the strategies that can be adopted to address the impacts of illicit SALW in Kenya, and ultimately promote peace and security in Africa. This study, was also conducted with the aim of approving or disproving three hypotheses or assumptions which include an assessment that, extraregional interests constitute an impediment to the realization of lasting peace and security on the continent. Secondly, this study aimed at proving or disproving the premise that, bad governance and weak policy implementation, have served to aid the proliferation of illicit SALW in Kenya. Last but not least, this study sought to prove that, better engagement between the state and civil society, can enhance strategies put in place to counter the proliferation of illicit SALW in Kenya. The Conflict Prevention Theory, forms the analytical tool for the conduct of this study, for purposes of assessing the impediments to peace and security in Africa. In terms of the research methodology, this study employed the mixed-method approach that incorporates both qualitative as well as quantitative methods of gathering data. Data was collected from Baringo, Garissa and West Pokot areas of Kenya, on the basis of those areas having suffered immensely from the impacts of illicit SALW. Collection of data was done using primary methods such as online questionnaires and (telephone) interviews, as well as through the extensive use secondary instruments such as books, academic journals, amongst other relevant academic sources that enriched the quality of this study. Finally, this study after analysis and presentation of findings, makes both academic and policy recommendations. In terms of academic recommendations, this study proposes in depth research into the drivers that underlie the demand for illicit SALW and loopholes that exist in policy that are exploited by entities involved in proliferation of illicit SALW. Among policy recommendations, this study also proposes enhanced interagency cooperation especially amongst the intelligence community, law enforcement and immigration officials to curb the flow of illicit SALW in Kenya, as well as mitigate their impacts.