Kenya has been chosen to spearhead a Sh2.3 billion initiative aimed at promoting peace and combating violent extremism in East Africa.
The programme, funded by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will focus on addressing security challenges in Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan.
Launching the initiative, Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo emphasised the need for regional collaboration to tackle terrorism and extremism.
“Terrorism poses a grave threat not just to Kenya but to the entire region. This programme is a step towards creating a safer, more secure future,” he said.
Dr Omollo highlighted Kenya’s recent success in curbing terrorism, citing improved community engagement and security measures that have led to a decline in extremist activities in counties such as Wajir, Mandera, and Lamu. He also noted the role of socio-economic challenges, such as unemployment and limited education, in driving radicalisation.
“Providing alternative livelihoods for the youth will reduce their vulnerability to recruitment by extremist groups,” he stated.
The programme will rely on over 500 community peacebuilding committees, involving youth, women, elders, faith leaders, and local administrators to identify and mitigate potential triggers of extremism.
The strategy seeks to build resilience within communities while fostering cooperation between civilians and security agencies.
KOICA Deputy Director Songi Han stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“Peacebuilding must start at the community level before scaling up to national and regional platforms,” she said.
This development coincides with the recent granting of a charter to the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU), positioning Kenya as a regional hub for intelligence training and research.
