Community Engagement and Resilience to Violent Extremism in Garissa County, Kenya

Summary

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of community engagement strategies in countering violent extremism within Garissa County, Kenya, an area affected by extremist activities, particularly from the Al-Shabaab group operating from Somalia. The contention of this article is that community engagement is increasingly recognized as a critical tool in enhancing resilience against violent extremism. By fostering social cohesion and building trust among local stakeholders, these efforts can effectively prevent radicalization and strengthen community capacities to resist extremist influences. The study explores how collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local leaders addresses the root causes of extremism, such as social exclusion, economic disparity, and political disenfranchisement. The study was guided by the empowerment theory developed by Rappaport (1981) and Social Identity Theory (SIT) advanced by Harwood (2020). The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design, focusing on a population of n=556 individuals, with data collection methods including being both qualitative and quantitative. The findings reveal that while community engagement initiatives in Garissa County have made progress in addressing violent extremism, clan-based social structures create mutual dependence and accountability, fostering a sense of belonging that discourages engagement in extremist activities. Religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue, particularly between the Muslim majority and minority groups, build trust and reduce suspicion, strengthening regional stability. Traditional conflict resolution methods, such as councils of elders, are crucial for managing disputes and preventing violence. Grassroots initiatives addressing unemployment, education, and livelihood opportunities reduce vulnerability to radicalization. Women's roles in peacebuilding further contribute to community resilience, while economic challenges and external factors like the conflict in Somalia remain ongoing threats, significant gaps remain in terms of long-term sustainability and addressing root causes of radicalization. The study highlights the need for tailored approaches that consider the unique socio-cultural context of Garissa, while highlighting the importance of empowering marginalized groups to build resilience. The insights from this research contribute to the broader discourse on countering violent extremism and offer recommendations for more comprehensive community-led strategies.

Keywords

community engagement, resilience, violent extremism, Garissa, Kenya, Al-Shabaab, clan structures, interfaith dialogue