| dc.description.abstract | There has been a steady increase in vigilante group in informal settlement in recent days because they have been seen as a solution to security provision by the residents of Kibera while security organs term them as causes of insecurity. This study looked at the effects of vigilante groups in Kenya with specific focus to informal settlement area of Kibera in Nairobi County. Descriptively, the study accessed the core reasons that led to the existence of vigilante groups as well as residents and state involvement in vigilante activities. This was guided by the following objectives: to establish the reasons why communities in Kibera depend on vigilante for security; to establish the strategies used by vigilante in provision of security in Kibera and to assess the challenges of the strategies used by vigilante in Kibera. The study was based on social disorganization theory, broken windows theory and security actor-network theory. The study was in the form of a descriptive survey design. A descriptive survey design describes, articulates and organizes a phenomenon under investigation. Primary and secondary data collection methods were applied to obtain data for the study. Simple random sampling approach was used to select 130 respondents for the study sample. The primary methods involved qualitative and quantitative approaches. Qualitatively, local administrators and vigilante group leaders were subjected to in-depth interviews. They gave in-depth views on vigilante activities. Quantitatively, youths registered in different self-help groups were subjected to semi structured interviews. The in-depth interviews were done through face-toface interviews. The SPSS version 21 was a key statistical instrument that was used for data analysis. The data was presented by the use of tables and charts. The study established that inefficiency by the state to offer essential services to the residents of informal settlement is the genesis of vigilante groups (80%). Further, strategies applied by vigilante groups in addressing security needs in Kibera seem to be effective compared to state response (40%). The study established that one of the major challenges facing Vigilante groups in Kibera is lack of funding and recognition by government (90%) and this have resulted into harassment by police when carrying out their duties (80%). The study concluded that whereas the state is struggling to stop vigilante activities in Kenya, its inefficient in offering security especially in the informal settlement areas can be the cause of existence of vigilante groups. The study also concluded that even though some of the strategies applied by vigilante groups in punishing the criminal gangs especially killing are not appropriate. The study recommends that the Government of Kenya develop plans for economically empowering young people to reduce the high unemployment rate that results to crime in society. The study suggests that the Kenyan government employ more policemen to ensure the safety of children and ensure compliance with the rule of law. The study also recommends the government should ensure that vigilante groups are enrolled to life skills and ethical trainings to make them provide security to the residents as per appropriate moral codes. | en_US |
