Summary:

• Kenya’s successful counter-terrorism efforts against al Shabaab have reduced terrorist deaths, earning global recognition. While deaths attributed to al Shabaab decreased in 2023, challenges persist, including managing the spillover of operations from Somalia and gaps in border security and leadership changes.

Kenya’s effective counter-terrorism measures against al Shabaab are yielding positive results and gaining international recognition.

According to the Global Terrorism Index 2024, deaths attributed to al Shabaab decreased from 800 in 2022 to 499 in 2023, marking a significant decline of nearly 38%. The majority of these deaths, 86%, occurred within Somalia, with the remaining 14% in Kenya. Notably, al Shabaab was responsible for 70 deaths in Kenya in 2023, the highest since 2019.

The report indicates that Kenya’s terrorism impact shifted from high in 2022 to medium in 2023, with a score of 5.616 on the index. In comparison, Burkina Faso registered the highest score of 8.571, signifying the greatest impact of terrorism globally, while Malaysia had the least impact at 0.192.

Kenya’s security agencies attribute the improved global rating to ongoing collaborative efforts in counter-terrorism. Multiagency operations against al Shabaab in Lamu and the Northeastern region have resulted in the elimination of key terrorists, destruction of makeshift camps, and successful arrests and prosecutions.

The government is commended for both its internal efforts against al Shabaab and its assistance to Somalia. Emphasizing a commitment to enhancing security and prosperity, the government plans to modernize security infrastructure, improve intelligence gathering, and employ precise operations to combat terrorism effectively. Additionally, investment in community empowerment and economic development projects aims to address the root causes of violent extremism.

Citizens and stakeholders are urged to support government initiatives in countering terrorism. However, the report warns that al Shabaab remains a significant threat, maintaining its nine-year streak of causing over 400 fatalities annually. Despite this, the decline in deaths suggests that efforts against the group may be yielding positive results.

Challenges remain, particularly in managing the spillover of operations in Somalia, which allows militants to infiltrate Kenya and carry out attacks. Insufficient law enforcement personnel along the border and changes in security leadership exacerbate the situation, creating gaps that militants exploit.