ISSN 2360-7998
Abstract: The twenty-first century has brought to the fore the challenge of terrorism and violent extremism, and the fact that it continues to afflict families, corporations, and countries more than ever before, resulting in the loss of lives and properties. This study sought to explore the contribution of counter-terrorism strategies and their implications for National Security in Kenya drawing on experiences from Lamu West Sub-County. The study adopted social learning theory, liberalism theory, human needs theory and securitization theory, as well as soft power model. The study used a descriptive research design and the census method of sampling was used where all 43 respondents participated in the study. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect data from the respondents and participants. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data while thematic analysis was conducted for qualitative data. The study found that strategies that had been used in Lamu sub-county to counter terrorism were effective. The study reports that incorporating public actions, strengthening the institutional capacity of stakeholders including the police have proved effective in terrorism prevention efforts. The study concludes that although there exist terrorism threats in Kenya, the counter-terrorism strategies adopted are effective as it has reduced violent attacks in major towns, but they need to be strengthened. There is need to strengthen stakeholder engagement including the famous community policing of ‘Nyumba Kumi’ as this helps seek support from the community and other related stakeholders. Secondly, sensitization could be undertaken for the members of public and security agencies. Further research can be conducted to investigate perception of members of public on security agencies and how this affects their relationship in the fight against terrorism in Kenya.
Keywords: Contribution, Counter Terrorism, Community, Strategies, National Security