KENYA VALIDATES NATIONAL STRATEGY TO COMBAT VIOLENT EXTREMISM.
BY NJOKI KARANJA.
In a significant step towards bolstering national security, the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) of Kenya has successfully completed the validation of its National Strategy to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism (NSPCVE). The validation process, led by NCTC Director Mr. Kibiego Kigen, underscores Kenya’s commitment to enhancing resilience and addressing the evolving threats posed by violent extremism.
The director, Mr. Kibiego Kigen.
The revised NSPCVE incorporates lessons learned from past experiences and adapts to new challenges, representing a comprehensive effort to strengthen Kenya’s security framework. "Our meeting today marks the culmination of national efforts to develop a new PCVE Strategy that incorporates the many lessons we have learnt and adaptively responds to the dynamic threat we face,” Mr. Kigen stated.
Following this validation, the NSPCVE is set to be presented to the National Security Council and President William Ruto for official endorsement and launch. This crucial step will solidify a coordinated national approach to countering violent extremism, paving the way for implementation at local levels, with active participation from community leaders and citizens.
Mr. Kigen emphasized the importance of public engagement in this initiative, calling for the development of County Action Plans and Annual Work Plans that align with the NSPCVE. “Let us aspire to maintain the momentum generated today into implementation and ensure that the whole PCVE space in Kenya enjoys the active participation of young leaders,” he urged.
The NSPCVE aims to foster unity and resilience by actively involving all sectors of society, particularly youth leaders and local governments, in combating the root causes of violent extremism. Its adaptive nature ensures that it addresses Kenya's unique challenges while promoting local solutions that adhere to national standards.
The validation process reflects collaborative efforts from various national and regional stakeholders, which are crucial for the strategy's success. NCTC's approach seeks to create a comprehensive framework that empowers communities and prioritizes peace and stability throughout the country.
As Kenya moves towards the full implementation of the NSPCVE, Mr. Kigen highlighted the need for ongoing collaboration and public involvement to sustain momentum. He stressed that a unified, proactive approach is essential not only for countering current threats but also for establishing a secure and peaceful future for generations to come.
Once formally launched, the NSPCVE is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s counter-terrorism initiatives, focusing on local adaptation and broad-based community support.
