Governance Peace and Conflict Studies

Antecedents of Government Security Programs Implementation Success in Combating Terrorism: A Case of Mandera County, Kenya

2021-05-01T00:00:00Z

Antecedents of Government Security Programs Implementation Success in Combating Terrorism: A Case of Mandera County, Kenya Abdullahi, Rashid Ibrahim Security threats remain a major risk to the world and safety at domestic, regional, and international level. It undermines the basic principles of law, justice, human rights, and freedom. Mandera County has been affected by different security threats including acts of terrorism. The need for proper security implementation measures needs to be put in place to deal with incidents of insecurity in the area. The overall objective of the study the study was to examine the antecedents of government security program implementation success; a case of Mandera County, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to determine how military presence; communication infrastructure and community policing influence the success of government security program implementation. The study was guided by Institutional Theory. The main research design that was adopted was descriptive correlational survey research design which was of importance in determining the relationship between the variables. The target population for the study was 22,960 people. A sample of 393 individuals who reside in Mandera were selected for this research. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Data collection instrument reliability was accepted at Cronbach’s coefficient alpha 0.7. The background data analysis was analyzed using descriptive statistics version 26 of the SPSS program. The resulting statistics in the form of percentages, means and standard deviation were used to describe the study variables. Out of 393, 323 returned their questionnaire but the remaining did not return. Stratified sampling technique was used in the study. Questionnaire and interview guides were used in data collection. Reliability of the questionnaire and all the construct generated a Cronbach’s alpha above 0.7 and was acceptable reliable. To ensure that the instruments were valid, content validity was used. The collected data was analysed with the help of statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 23.0. Percentages, means, and standard deviation were used for descriptive analysis of the indicators for each variable of the study. An overall mean of 3.0 was a clear indication of the importance of community policing strategies are in the implementation of security programs in Mandera County. Upon testing the hypothesis, an R value of 0.836 was obtained, suggesting a positive strong linear relationship between the independent and dependent variables of the study. Further, military group presence has β=0.396, Communication Infrastructure β=0.167 and Community Policing β=0.319 had an effect on security program implementation success in Mandera County. The study findings will immensely benefit various government policy makers in understanding the extent to which their acts of omission and commission are impacting the success of the security programs put in place in Mandera county and how they can improve the identified areas of weakness. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for The Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance Peace and Security in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences of Africa Nazarene University

Effectiveness of County Governance System in Provision of Social Services in Kajiado North Sub County, Kenya

2024-06-01T00:00:00Z

Effectiveness of County Governance System in Provision of Social Services in Kajiado North Sub County, Kenya Karendi, Mbogori Catherine In Kenya, the challenge of ensuring efficient governance and service delivery at the county level is critical for meeting the diverse social needs of local populations. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of the county governance system in providing essential services, with a specific focus on Kajiado North Sub-County. The main objective of this research is to assess the effectiveness of the county governance system in delivering social services in Kajiado North Sub-County. Specifically, the study aims to achieve three key objectives: Firstly, to determine the level of public knowledge about social service provision in Kajiado North Sub-County. Secondly, to assess the effectiveness of county governance policies in facilitating social service provision. And thirdly, to identify the primary challenges faced in the delivery of social services within Kajiado North Sub-County. Utilizing a descriptive research design, data collection targeted households, county officials, members of county assembly, provincial administrators and community stakeholders in Kajiado North Sub-County. A sample of 143 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique, focusing on two key wards out of the five—Oloolua and Olkeri Wards. Questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions served as primary data collection methods, analyzed through statistical and thematic approaches. In regard to findings, under the objective to determine the level of public knowledge about social service provision, the demographic analysis revealed a balanced gender distribution within the sample, predominantly aged between 30 to 49 years, with a majority holding certificate/diploma level education. The findings unveiled widespread skepticism concerning decision-making transparency and information sharing adequacy, with 86.5% of respondents disagreeing that decision-making was open to scrutiny and 79.4% feeling information sharing was inadequate. However, it was noted that 66% of respondents agreed that providers effectively managed service risks. Similarly, regarding the evaluation of the effectiveness of county governance policies, it was found that while a significant portion of respondents deemed county governance policies adequate, concerns persisted regarding compliance challenges and perceived biases. Notably, 79.4% of respondents found the policies to be adequate, yet 64.5% agreed that entities evade compliance, and 67.4% perceived bias within the governance framework. Likewise, in identifying the key challenges faced in delivering social services within Kajiado North Sub-County, the study highlighted corruption among service providers, punitive policies dampening community participation, and inadequate funding constraining operational effectiveness as principal challenges. Qualitative insights underscored policy successes in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, advocating for balanced compliance costs and streamlined business practices. In conclusion, while confidence in county policies was evident, substantial gaps persist in transparency, public engagement, and policy implementation. Addressing key challenges such as corruption and financial constraints necessitates strategic recommendations, including awareness campaigns, policy reviews, and fostering public-private partnerships. Lastly, there were a few comprehensive recommendations that were proposed notably public awareness initiatives, periodic policy reviews, compliance monitoring mechanisms, and the establishment of inclusive advisory councils to guide decision-making in alignment with local needs. Implementing these evidence-based recommendations can foster transparency, stakeholder trust, and resilient governance frameworks for effective social service provision in Kajiado County. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance, Peace and Security in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies of Africa Nazarene University

Role Of The Kenya Defence Forces In Resolving Inter-Communal Conflicts In West Pokot And Turkana Counties, Kenya

2024-06-01T00:00:00Z

Role Of The Kenya Defence Forces In Resolving Inter-Communal Conflicts In West Pokot And Turkana Counties, Kenya Mutwiwa, Annastacia Loko This study examined the role of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in resolving inter- communal conflicts along the border of West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The objectives of the study were to identify the specific conflict resolution strategies employed by the Kenya Defence Forces in addressing inter-communal conflicts, assessing the impact and effectiveness of the Kenya Defence Forces' interventions in mitigating inter-communal conflict, and to investigate the operational challenges faced by the Kenya Defence Forces in their inter-communal conflict resolution efforts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The study considered Azar’s Theory of Conflict, the Realism Theory of Conflict Management, and the Securitization Theory. A descriptive research design was used in this investigation. The Local residents, KDF officers, Police commanders, chiefs, and county administrators were the subjects of this research. A mixed-method research design, quantitative and qualitative methods were applied in the study. Stratified Sampling and purposive sampling procedures were applied to select the subjects of the study based on the geographical area along the Turkana and West Pokot counties. The sample size was 105 respondents. A questionnaire designed to address the study's goals was used to gather data. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the data. Results are shown in the form of tables, charts, and figures when the data was coded and analyzed using descriptive analysis tools. Results contributed to a deeper understanding of how security issues were framed, perceived, and managed in conflict-affected areas. The study found that inter- communal conflicts between communities in West Pokot and Turkana Counties are recurrent and persistent, with sporadic outbreaks of violence occurring over several decades. The study also found that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have utilized several conflict resolution strategies to address inter-communal conflicts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties. The study also found that KDF interventions have contributed to a reduction in inter-communal conflict incidents in the region and the conflicts in West Pokot and Turkana Counties are deeply rooted in complex inter-communal dynamics, including historical grievances, competition over resources, and ethnic tensions. KDF should prioritize meaningful engagement with local communities, including community leaders, elders, and grassroots organizations, to better understand their perspectives, needs, and grievances; KDF personnel should undergo cultural sensitivity training to better understand the socio-cultural dynamics of the communities they serve; KDF should conduct a comprehensive analysis of the root causes, dynamics, and actors involved in inter-communal conflicts in the region and KDF needs to enhance intelligence gathering capabilities through investments in technology, training, and collaboration with local informants and intelligence agencies. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirement for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance, Peace and Security, in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Africa Nazarene University

Effects Of Multi-Agency Approach In Combating Money Laundering By Selected State Agencies In Nairobi, Kenya

2024-06-01T00:00:00Z

Effects Of Multi-Agency Approach In Combating Money Laundering By Selected State Agencies In Nairobi, Kenya Juma, Tonny Omondi The menace of money laundering is a universal problem that continues to adversely affect the security of states in many parts of the world. Despite Kenya adopting a multi-agency approach to tackle financial crimes in 2015, the nation’s overall money laundering threat is assessed as medium with a potential for increase while the nation’s vulnerability to money laundering is assessed as medium high. The purpose of the study was to examine the effects of Multi-Agency approach in combating money laundering by selected state agencies in Nairobi, Kenya. The following objectives guided the and study; to find out the models of cooperation and coordination amongst selected state agencies involved in combating money laundering, to determine the effects of resource allocation to selected state agencies involved in combating money laundering and to establish the effects of training and capacity-building of Multi-Agency teams involved in combating money laundering. The study adopted descriptive research design and was anchored on securitization and institutional theories. The target population comprised of 383 personnel drawn from Ethics and Anti- Corruption Commission, Kenya Revenue Authority, Financial Reporting Centre, Assets Recovery Authority, National Intelligence Service, and Directorate of Criminal Investigations. Yamane’s formula was used to arrive at a sample size of 195 personnel while stratified random sampling was adopted to ensure that the sample is representative of the various subgroups within the population. Reliability of research instruments was estimated by administering the instruments to a sample of 20 respondents who did not form part of the final study. Questionnaires were used for data collection. Analysis of qualitative data was conducted in a continuous manner, where in themes and subthemes were identified as they emerged while quantitative data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings were displayed using frequency tables, charts, graphs, and percentages. Findings indicated that there is positive association between multiagency approach and combating money laundering in Nairobi, Kenya. The study recommended that the multiagency framework be entrenched in law so as to reduce red tape, mistrust and competition among participating agencies, allocate more financial and technological resources and to ensure a continuous training regime so that members of the multiagency team are up to date on new trends of money laundering. A Thesis Submitted an Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance Peace and Security in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Africa Nazarene University

Influence of Online Money Lending Platforms on Economic Security of Boda-Boda Riders in Ruiru Sub- County, Kiambu County, Kenya

2024-07-01T00:00:00Z

Influence of Online Money Lending Platforms on Economic Security of Boda-Boda Riders in Ruiru Sub- County, Kiambu County, Kenya Mbuya, Andrew Access to financial services in emerging nations has been greatly enhanced by the rapid rise of technology. There can no longer be any doubt about the indisputable role that technology plays in facilitating the expansion of national economic activity through enhanced productivity, efficiency, and access to markets. This study focused on how online lending platforms influenced the economic security of boda-boda riders. This study sought to determine the effects of accessibility of online credit facilities, the effectiveness of the regulatory framework governing online money lending platforms, and the economic security challenges facing Boda-boda riders in Ruiru Sub County. The study considered Financial Growth Theory, Asymmetric Information Theory, and Technology Acceptance Model. A descriptive research design was used in this investigation. The boda-boda riders of Kiambu County's Ruiru Sub County were the intended respondents of this research 2346 in total. A cluster sampling procedure was applied to select the subjects of the study based on geographical location. Ruiru sub-county was stratified based on wards. The sample size was 365 respondents. A questionnaire designed to address the study's objectives was used to gather data. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the data. Results were shown in the form of tables, charts, and figures when the data was coded and analyzed using SPSS version 26. A total of 294 out of 365 questionnaires were analyzed, representing a response rate of 80.5%. The majority of respondents were male (93%), indicating a male-dominated boda- boda sector. A significant portion of the riders fell within the age bracket of 26-35 years, suggesting that the boda-boda business attracted mainly youthful individuals seeking employment opportunities that did not require extensive skills. The findings indicated that a high percentage of riders had KCPE and KCSE certificates as their highest level of education, highlighting the trend of individuals opting for boda-boda business as a quick way to earn money without needing advanced education. The study found that boda-boda riders extensively utilized online money-lending platforms to access loans or credit which is influenced by key factors like the convenience of applying for loans through online platforms, compared to traditional methods, the flexibility in repayment terms offered by online platforms and the awareness and visibility of online money lending platforms through advertising and promotions. The positive influence is achieved by these services serving as a safety net for households by enabling them to manage financial shocks and smooth consumption patterns more effectively. The study’s recommendations included enhancing financial literacy programs, promoting alternative financing options, and strengthening data privacy regulations to protect the economic security of boda-boda riders mitigating risks associated with online lending platforms Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirement for the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance Peace and Security, in the Department of Governance Peace and Security Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences Africa Nazarene University

Impact of Ethnic Conflicts on Human Development in Merti Sub-County, Isiolo County, Kenya

2026-07-01T00:00:00Z

Impact of Ethnic Conflicts on Human Development in Merti Sub-County, Isiolo County, Kenya Jattani, Boru Adhi; Jattani, Boru Adhi Ethnic conflict remains a significant impediment to human development in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands, with Merti Sub-County in Isiolo County experiencing recurrent inter-ethnic violence that has severely constrained progress across education, health, and economic dimensions. Despite numerous government interventions and policy frameworks, persistent conflicts among pastoralist communities have continued to disrupt livelihoods, displace populations, and undermine development initiatives. This study examined the impact of ethnic conflicts on human development in Merti Sub- County, guided by four specific objectives: to examine the prevalence and nature of ethnic conflicts; to determine their effects on human development indicators; to evaluate existing policy and legal frameworks; and to identify challenges in managing ethnic conflicts for enhanced human development. This study was anchored on conflict theory and human development theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design, targeting a population of 8,558 conventional household heads in Merti-Sub County, Isiolo County, Kenya. Using Yamane's formula, a sample size of 382 household heads was selected through stratified random sampling and 50 key informants to be selected purposively. The data was collected using structured questionnaires with Likert scale items and semi-structured interview guides. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 to generate descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and SDs, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically through content analysis. The findings informed evidence-based policy recommendations for improving conflict management and promoting sustainable human development in Merti Sub-County and similar pastoral contexts. The results indicated that cattle raiding (mean of 4.24) and competition over water and grazing land (mean of 4.16) were the main drivers of ethnic conflicts in Merti Sub- County. These conflicts negatively affected human development by destroying assets (85.8%), limiting healthcare (87.6%), displacing families (41.9%), and disrupting education (a mean of 3.15 and SD of 1.291). Existing formal and traditional policies to address conflicts were limited by low awareness (mean of 2.34), slow response (mean of 3.01), and enforcement challenges (mean of 4.11). Conflict management was hindered by weak law enforcement (92%), political interference (76.7%), and weapons proliferation (80.8%), with calls for stronger governance and improved infrastructure. The study concluded that ethnic conflicts in Merti Sub-County are highly prevalent and are mainly driven by competition over scarce resources, cattle raiding, and political influences, particularly among the Borana and Samburu communities. These conflicts had significant negative effects on human development, including loss of lives, increased poverty, disrupted healthcare services, and hindered economic growth, although the impact on education was localized. The study also found out that existing policy and legal frameworks were largely ineffective due to low public awareness, weak implementation, corruption, and political interference, despite the potential of traditional systems such as Dedha. The study therefore recommended strengthening early warning systems, promoting sustainable resource management, enhancing policy implementation and public awareness, integrating traditional conflict resolution mechanisms, and investing in disarmament, youth empowerment, and community cohesion initiatives to foster sustainable peace and improved human development. The findings provided empirical evidence to inform the design and implementation of more effective conflict management policies and human development interventions by government agencies and local communities’ leadership in Merti Sub-County and similar pastoral contexts. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of Master of Science in Governance, Peace and Security Studies Degree in the Department of Governance, Peace And Security Studies, School Of Humanities and Social Sciences, Africa Nazarene University

Government Integrated Social Programmes and Their Impacts on Management of Urban Security: A Case of Nairobi City County, Kenya

2025-03-01T00:00:00Z

Government Integrated Social Programmes and Their Impacts on Management of Urban Security: A Case of Nairobi City County, Kenya Mwangi, Virginiah W. The architecture and implementation process of government integrated social programmes is often overlooked which in turn affects their effectiveness. Among the key roles of such programmes is promotion of urban security which in turn is affected. This study endeavored to assess the effectiveness of social integrated programmes in a bid to enhance urban security with Nairobi City County used as a case of study. Social integrated programmes within the urban environment are influenced by many stakeholders such as the government, community, and developmental partners. The study was guided by the following objectives; to identify key components and mechanisms of government integrated social programmes in Nairobi City County in enhancing urban security; to establish the impact/effectiveness of government integrated social programmes on urban security in Nairobi County; to assess the challenges affecting the realization of government integrated social programmes objectives in promotion of urban security, and to assess the policy, legal, and institutional frameworks of government integrated social programmes in the promotion of urban security in Nairobi City County. The study was guided by concentric zone and crisis theories. The study used descriptive research design. The study sample size was 400 from the target population of 4,397,073. Stratified sampling technique was applied to select respondents. Data collection was conducted using structured questionnaires that were administered by the researcher on hand and pick basis to the primary respondents. Data from key informants was gathered using the interview schedule. Data collected was cleaned, coded, and tabulated in Ms. Excel and analyzed with the aid of SPSS version 25 software. Qualitative data was themed according to the objectives and subjected to content analysis. The findings have revealed that three main programmes have formed the fundamental components of ISP as follows; Kazi Mtaani at 53.80%, Youth Fund Program at (18.24%) and Cash Transfer Programmes at (27.96%). The findings have also established the significant implications of ISPs on urban security as well as the challenges and legal framework for their implementations. However 76.9% of the respondents were unaware of existing policy frameworks on ISP against 23.1% who were aware. The study concludes that ISPs are essential in promoting urban security particularly within neighborhoods that are economically disproportionate. The study recommends that ISPs should be properly funded; there is need to expedite the legislative processes pertaining the Social Protection Bill of 2024; and awareness campaigns should be carried out especially on the scope of various ISPs that are being implemented across the Nairobi City County. Further, there is need to conduct a similar study in other parts of the country that have implemented ISPs to expand the scope of the recommendations for purposes of developing policy and law. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements For the Award of the Degree of Master of Science in Governance, Peace, and Security, in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies, and The School of Humanities and Social Sciences of Africa Nazarene University

Civil Society Organizations in Ensuring Peaceful Election Processes in Kibera Constituency, Kenya

2025-06-01T00:00:00Z

Civil Society Organizations in Ensuring Peaceful Election Processes in Kibera Constituency, Kenya Koroma, Thaimu This study examines the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in ensuring peaceful election processes in Kibera Constituency, Kenya. Despite efforts by public institutions and stakeholders to enhance electoral integrity, challenges such as election-related violence, voter suppression, and political intolerance persist. This study investigates the effectiveness of CSOs in monitoring elections, fostering voter education, employing conflict prevention strategies, and overcoming institutional challenges that hinder their effectiveness. The following objectives guided the study: (1) to assess the CSOs’ ability to observe and monitor elections independently, (2) to determine the effectiveness of CSOs in creating awareness for peaceful elections, and (3) to identify the challenges that hinder CSOs' effectiveness. The research is anchored on Social Capital Theory and Social Choice Theory, which explain the role of civil society in fostering democratic participation and institutional engagement. A descriptive survey design was adopted, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data was collected between June and July 2024 from a target population of 1,000 individuals, including CSO representatives, electoral officials, political party leaders, government officials, journalists, and residents. Using the Mugenda and Mugenda (1999) formula, a sample size of 102 respondents was selected. Data collection methods included structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, while data analysis utilized SPSS version 25 for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative responses. Findings indicate that CSOs are critical in monitoring elections, voter education, and conflict prevention. Yet, they face significant obstacles, including financial constraints, political interference, security threats, and limited access to information. The study established that 88.9% of respondents acknowledged political interference as a key challenge, while 86.7% cited security concerns as a significant obstacle. Additionally, CSOs’ voter education programs were 69.3% effective in promoting electoral participation and transparency. Conflict prevention strategies such as reconciliation, mediation (78.5%), voter education campaigns (72.1%), and stakeholder engagement (65.5%) were identified as key interventions that significantly reduce election-related violence. The study recommends enhanced financial and legal support for CSOs, improved collaboration with government institutions, and the adoption of digital monitoring technologies to strengthen their role in Election integrity. Future research should explore the longitudinal impacts of CSOs on electoral reforms and conduct comparative studies to examine their effectiveness in different political contexts. The study contributes to knowledge by providing empirical insights into CSOs' engagement, documenting peacebuilding strategies, evaluating their effectiveness, and informing theory and policy development. A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of Degree of Master of Governance, Peace, and Security Studies in the Department of Governance, Peace and Security Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences of Africa Nazarene University

Assessing the Effect of Integration Programs on Socioeconomic Adaptation of Refugees in Nairobi, Kenya

2025-06-01T00:00:00Z

Assessing the Effect of Integration Programs on Socioeconomic Adaptation of Refugees in Nairobi, Kenya Wanambisi, Livia Lumbasi The main objective of the study was to assess integration programs and refugees’ socioeconomic adaptation in Nairobi, Kenya. The following research goals acted as the guide to the study: identifying the impact of education through integration programs on refugees' socioeconomic adaptation in Nairobi, Kenya; assessing the impact of Healthcare on refugees' socioeconomic adaptation in Nairobi, Kenya; identifying the impact of government policies on integration programs on refugees' socioeconomic adaptation in Nairobi, Kenya; and evaluating the impact of housing on integration programs on refugees' socioeconomic adaptation in Nairobi, Kenya. The study combined two theories: the social integration theory, and the Human Development Index theory. The study used a descriptive correlational design considering the 78,912 refugees in Nairobi as the study's target population. Purposive sampling was used to select 300 respondents from the listed refugee NGOs. A questionnaire was used to collect data with reliability at a Cronbach Alpha of above 0.89 in all the variable tests. The findings of the study were presented using graphs and charts produced through SPSS tool. The findings of the research study showed existence of a strong positive relationship at r = .856 between education and socio-economic adaptation of refugees, where the education programs attributed 73.3% to the success of socio-economic adaptation of refugees. From the study, there was a moderately strong positive relation at r = .476 between healthcare and socio-economic adaptation of refugees, where Healthcare Programs attributed 22.7% to the success of socio-economic adaptation of refugees. There was a weak positive relation at r = .238 between government policies and refugees’ socio-economic adaptation, where government policies in place contributed to about 18.22% to the success of socio-economic adaptation of refugees. Lastly, from the study a strong positive relation at r = .781 existed between housing and socio-economic adaptation of refugees, where the housing programs attributed 61.1% to the success of socio-economic adaptation of refugees. The social-economic adaptation of refugees was concluded to be strongly influenced by education and housing in integration programs. Refugee NGOs are recommended to provide learning opportunities to the refugees through their integration programs by investing in education and training that creates impactful practical skills for self-sustainability. The need for industrial training has been highlighted to sharing of skills from the local community industries. The study recommends that the healthcare for refugees should be reviewed to create more affordable and accessible services. This study further recommends that governments should get more involved in supporting refugees with fair policies as they adapt to society. This includes developing legal assistance programs, tailored job training initiatives, and community support networks that provide essential resources and guidance as refugees navigate their new environments. The study also recommends that housing to be made even more accessible or maintain the standards as they currently are in the integration programs. The study suggests similar studies on refugee integration programs in other non-urban counties within the country and focuses on studies touching refugee integration programs influenced by other factors. A Research Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of Master of Science in Governance, Peace And Security, in the Department of Governance Peace And Conflict Studies, School of Humanities of Africa Nazarene University

Dynamics of Health Education on Food Security Among the Refugees in Dadaab Refugee Camp, Kenya

2025-05-01T00:00:00Z

Dynamics of Health Education on Food Security Among the Refugees in Dadaab Refugee Camp, Kenya Barasa, Nelly Saiti Refugees and asylum seekers face persistent food security challenges due to their heavy reliance on humanitarian aid, which is increasingly unsustainable amid global crises driven by conflicts and disasters. This study investigates the role of health education in improving food security in Kenya’s Dadaab refugee camp, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to empower these vulnerable populations. The study adopts Systems Theory and Network Society Theory as its theoretical framework. Systems Theory conceptualizes food security as a dynamic and interdependent system consisting of four pillars; availability, access, utilization, and stability, where disturbances in one affect the entire system through feedback loops. Network Society Theory complements this by framing food security within a complex network shaped by flows of information, power, and resources, where actors play differentiated roles in shaping access, decision-making, and education delivery. Using a concurrent mixedmethods descriptive design, the study surveyed 385 refugee households, conducted 43 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and held 28 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving refugees, host communities, humanitarian actors, and government officials. Demographically, the sample was dominated by female respondents (69.9%) and long-term residents (70.4%), indicating a relatively stable and feminized refugee population. Most participants were young (18–59 years), economically vulnerable (55.6% had no income-generating activities), and lacked formal education (72.4%), which hinders their engagement with health education and capacity to act on food security strategies. The study revealed that 78.4% of households depended on food aid from the World Food Programme (WFP), indicating high external dependency. However, access to health education particularly through facility-level or technology-based channels was associated with greater understanding of food security issues. Multivariable logistic regression analysis provided statistical evidence supporting these findings. Individuals aware of facility-based (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 2.95; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.62–5.38; p < 0.001) and technology-based (aOR = 3.06; CI: 1.63–5.75; p = 0.001) health education strategies were significantly more likely to understand food security concepts. Other positive predictors included satisfaction with health education programs (aOR = 2.17; p = 0.015), access to income (aOR = 4.36; p < 0.001), and the ability to procure food beyond aid (aOR = 1.86; p = 0.041). In contrast, prolonged refugee status (aOR = 0.42; p = 0.001) and governance barriers (aOR = 2.86; p < 0.001) were significant constraints. These findings underscore the importance of integrating contextspecific and accessible health education strategies into refugee support systems. Facility-level outreach and technology-enhanced education (e.g., mobile or digital platforms) can significantly improve understanding and engagement. Moreover, governance structures play a critical role in shaping program effectiveness, suggesting that policy reforms, improved coordination, and funding mechanisms are vital to success. In conclusion, the study recommends a multidimensional approach that enhances governance, promotes income generation, integrates refugee and host communities, and deploys innovative education strategies. Tailored, community-driven solutions are essential to empower refugees in Dadaab to make informed, independent decisions towards achieving sustainable food security Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Governance, Peace, and Security in the department of Governance, Peace and security, School of Humanities and Social Sciences of Africa Nazarene University