Role of digital communication technology on youth radicalization in Majengo slum in Nairobi county, kenya

Abstract

Radicalization and terrorism is a global concern through the media and internet networks. It has been linked with lawlessness, destruction of property, as well as instilling fear among the citizens of developed and undeveloped countries. Previous studies have demonstrated that most people who were radicalized were well educated, employed as well as active in the local communities. The major factors for radicalization were influence of perception of marginalization, discrimination, political oppression, poverty, influence of spiritual leaders and sense of alienation. This study sought to assess the effect of digital communication technology on youth radicalization in informal settlements in Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives: - to determine the popularity of digital communication platforms utilized in youth radicalization, investigate digital communication technology strategies utilized on youth radicalization and determine the effectiveness of counter-digital communication strategies on youth radicalization in Majengo slums. The study was informed by Space Transition Theory and Technological Determinism Theory. This study employed descriptive research design. The target population for this study comprised of police officers both junior and senior, Religious Groups, Non-governmental organizations Nyumba Kumi officials and Community Policing members totaling to 140 respondents. The sample size for the study was 104 respondents. Primary data was collected using both quantitative and qualitative data techniques. This was achieved through questionnaires and interview schedules. This study utilized both qualitative and quantitative data analysis with the aid of SPSS version 20. The study noted that majority of the respondents cited that Facebook was among the utilized platform for radicalization among the youths within the informal settlements. This was cited by 45(59.2%) of the respondents. Notably WhatsApp was also noted as among the social media platforms utilized on online radicalization. This was noted by 24(31.6%) of the respondents. Conversely, 2(2.6%) cited twitter while 5(6.6%) indicated websites. The study noted that majority of the respondents agreed that digital technology was also being utilized in the spread of extremism propaganda among the informal settlements. This was indicated by 40(52.6%) of the respondents.Additionally, 35 (46.1%) of the respondents strongly agreed while 1.3% of the respondents cited that they disagree. Cases of terror network funding through the digital communication platforms such as Paypal have been prone in this area. The study recommends that improving critical thinking skills and digital literacy so individuals are less vulnerable to influence and manipulation of terrorist and messaging of online terrorism and violent extremism. The study recommends risk prevention strategies and disengagement programs such as censorship and online monitoring as well advocating for other CVEs programs within the community.