Contemporary Terrorism in Kenya

• Donald Wachira Theuri

  Dedan Kimathi University of Technology

  Author

• Peterlinus Odote

  National Defence University - Kenya

  Author

This paper critically explores the evolving definitions, discursive constructions, and strategic responses to contemporary terrorism in Kenya. Drawing on the securitisation theory and critical terrorism studies, we interrogate how terrorism is framed by state actors, often in ways that marginalise Kenya’s vulnerable populations. We propose a context-specific definition of contemporary terrorism in Kenya as ideologically driven violence by non-state actors that exploits historical grievances, digital platforms, and vulnerable communities to influence governance to respond to their demands through fear. Through a chronological analysis of Al Shabaab’s operations from 1980 to 2024, we identify shifts from transnational attacks to hybrid asymmetric warfare, including digital radicalisation. The study critiques Kenya’s counterterrorism practices—highlighting the securitisation of ethnic identity, human rights violations, and the politicisation of counterterrorism laws—while acknowledging recent reforms and technological innovations. We propose a four-pronged hybrid model of counter-terrorism strategy in Kenya involving community engagement, technological adaptation, and cross-border intelligence collaboration. Ultimately, we argue that Kenya must recalibrate its approach to prioritise rights-based, locally grounded strategies that build resilience and mitigate extremist appeal.

1. Donald Wachira Theuri , Dedan Kimathi University of Technology

   Col (Rtd) Donald Wachira Theuri is an experienced security and disaster management professional with a Doctorate in Security Risk Management (DSyRM) and a Master's degree in Advanced Disaster Management. He is a Lecturer in the Department of Criminology and Security Studies at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, with previous teaching experience at Egerton University, Mount Kenya University, and Africa Nazarene University. Dr. Theuri's experience includes both military and academic leadership, with positions such as Battalion Commander, Brigade Major, Head of Applied Research, and UN Military Observer. He has received specialised training in the areas of explosive and weapon system awareness, incident command, crime scene management, and crisis response. His scholarly work on explosive detection, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and security technology includes notable publications and conference presentations. Aside from academia, he participates in volunteer training on emergency management and disaster preparedness and has held community leadership positions such as chairing school and church boards.

2. Peterlinus Odote, National Defence University - Kenya

   Dr Peterlinus Ouma Odote is a senior lecturer at the National University Kenya, specialising in international relations, diplomacy, and security studies. He serves as Editor-in-Chief of the National Security: Journal of National University-Kenya and heads academic programs at the Joint Command and Staff College. Dr. Odote holds a PhD in Diplomacy and International Studies from the University of Nairobi and a Master’s in Peace Studies from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

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