This archive report was first published on 12 January 2020.
January 12, 2020, marked a significant moment in Kenya's war against terror, as the country continued to play a crucial role in the international community's efforts to combat violent extremism.
Kenya's strategic location, bordering Somalia and situated on the coast, makes it a key player in regional security. The country's close relations with the West, particularly the United States, have also made it a target for extremist groups seeking to retaliate against US interests.
On January 5, 2020, US forces stationed in Kenya were targeted in a terror attack, which was likely a response to the assassination of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander Qassem Soleimani. Soleimani's Quds Force is suspected of being behind the 2011 terror attacks in Kenya that triggered a subsequent military operation in Somalia.
US Vice-President Mike Pence had previously indicated that Soleimani was responsible for the murder of civilians in Kenya, highlighting the connection between the two events.
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta has been at the forefront of the country's efforts to combat terrorism, implementing a two-pronged strategy to address the radicalization process and build up counter-terror capabilities.
The first part of this approach focuses on addressing the radicalization process, which involves improving and working with local leadership to discourage youth from joining radical groups. The government has exposed the disingenuous nature of many radicals, who often claim to be fighting on behalf of Islamic ideology while targeting Muslims.
The second part of the strategy involves building up counter-terror capabilities, which requires international partnerships. President Kenyatta has been traveling around the globe to strengthen these security partnerships, creating a unified front against those who undermine national security.
As General Stephen Townsend, Commander of the United States Africa Command, noted, 'our efforts directly contribute to counter-terrorism, maritime surveillance and intelligence sharing missions with our Kenyan partners. This activity enables enhanced security and stability in the region and for America.'
