Influence of Localisation of Security Risk Management Strategies on Decision-Making Processes at Kakuma Refugee Camp

Abstract

Effective decision-making is crucial for ensuring security and stability at Kakuma Refugee Camp, which hosts over 240,000 refugees as of 2024. However, challenges such as limited localised data and exclusion of key stakeholders often lead to poor responses, with up to 60% of security interventions failing due to inadequate risk assessment. This study aimed to evaluate how the localisation of security risk management strategies can enhance decision-making at Kakuma Refugee Camp. Specifically, the study examined the impact of tailored security infrastructure, decentralised command and control, and local crisis management on improving decision-making processes. The study was based on Contingency Theory, Situational Leadership Theory, and the Resource Allocation Model. It used a descriptive research design. The target population consisted of 420 staff from NGOs, United Nations agencies, the Department of Refugee Services, security agencies, and members of the refugee and host communities at Kakuma Refugee Camp. Nonprobability sampling, specifically maximum variation sampling, was employed. Purposive and snowball sampling were also used to identify key informants for in-depth interviews. The Yamane formula determined a sample size of 125 respondents. Data were collected through questionnaires and interview guides. The data comprised both quantitative and qualitative information. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Descriptive statistics included frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Pearson's correlation analysis was used. For qualitative data, thematic analysis identified patterns, themes, and insights that emerged from the interview responses. Quantitative results were presented in tables for clarity, while qualitative findings were presented thematically or in prose to effectively capture respondents' perspectives. The study identified a moderate, positive, and significant correlation between customised security infrastructure and improved decision- making processes (r = 0. 534, p = 0. 000). It also found a significant positive relationship between decentralised command and control and improved decision- making (r = 0. 623, p = 0. 000). Additionally, there was a significant positive correlation between local crisis management and improved decision- making (r = 0. 413, p = 0. 000). The study concludes that localisation significantly improves the effectiveness of security decisionmaking at Kakuma Refugee Camp by fostering adaptive, inclusive, and datadriven practices. Based on these findings, it recommends that humanitarian agencies and policymakers institutionalise localised decision-making frameworks by strengthening community engagement, building local capacity in risk assessment, and integrating locally generated data into security planning. This approach is crucial for enhancing decision-making processes and strengthening security governance in refugee camp settings.