Kenya

Where We Work

Kenya

Context

Kenya is currently ranked 20 on the Global Terrorism Index of 2023. After a relatively calm period in the initial months of the year, violent extremist incidents intensified in Kenya during the second half of 2021. Most incidents were perpetrated by Al Shabab in the northeast, particularly in Garissa, Wajir and at the Coast, in Lamu.

The Government of Kenya and civil society actors worked collaboratively to respond to risks of violent extremism and as a result, 300 Kenyans left Al-Shabaab and surrendered to the Kenyan authorities in June 2021.

STORIES FROM THE GROUND

Resisting Al-Shabab in Kibra, Nairobi

With the assistance from [GCERF’s local partner], we peacefully resolved conflicts regarding constructing this church within a predominantly Muslim community. [GCERF’s local partner] assisted in calming tensions between religious leaders, and now we are received and perceived well in Hongwe. This will go a long way in proving that Muslims and Christians can live together happily and in peace

– Pastor of a Pentecostal church, Hongwe in Lamu County

Pathways to Change

GCERF supports activities to build social cohesion and community agency. It also funds programmes designed to create equal access to opportunities and a sense of purpose. These include initiatives to:

Promote interfaith dialogue among religious leaders on the Kenyan coast.
Train women and out-of-school youth in entrepreneurial skills.
Create safe spaces and symposia for women to discuss the prevention of violent extremism in their communities.
Establish community peace watch groups in Wajir, Garissa, and on the Kenyan coast to alert on early signs of radicalisation.
Mentor peace ambassadors and youth.