Journal articles on the topic 'Kenya Defence Forces'

Background. Hypertensive disease is increasing in developing countries due to nutritional transition and westernization. Hypertensive disease among Kenya military may be lower because of health-focused recruitment, physical activities, routine checkups, and health awareness and management, but the disease has been increasing. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine physiological, behavioral, and dietary characteristics associated with hypertension among Kenyan military. Methods. A cross-sectional study involving 340 participants was conducted at Armed Forces Memorial Hospital. Participants' history, risk factors assessment, and dietary patterns were obtained by structured questionnaire, while physiological and anthropometric parameters were measured. Results. Hypertensive participants were likely to have higher age, physiological, and anthropometric measurements, and they participated in peace missions. Daily alcohol and smoking, frequent red meat, and inadequate fruits and vegetables were associated with hypertension. Conclusions. The findings mimic the main risk factors and characteristics for hypertensive disease in developed countries whose lifestyle adoption is happening fast in low and middle-income countries. Whether or not prediction rules and/or risk scores may identify at-risk individuals for preventive strategy for targeted behavioral interventions among this population require investigation.

This study examined Kenya's national security threats resulting from the withdrawal of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) from the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). This was in light of previous Peace Support Operation Transitions (PSO) in Iraq and Afghanistan, where regional instability resulted from troop withdrawals. Therefore, it analysed the impact of PSO experiences on national security, aiming to identify potential threats to the national security of Troop-Contributing Countries (TCC) resulting from PSO involvement. The study was a descriptive survey design, and it adopted a mixed-methods approach. The sample size for the study was 400 respondents and 49 key informants. The survey was informed by functionalist theory and strategic theory. Kenyan border counties are predisposed to the security effects of the KDF transition from AMISOM. The study's findings indicated a complex security landscape; that is, weak Somali security forces, insufficient funding for the transition, a short time frame, and the likelihood of a resurgent Al-Shabaab all present significant threats to Kenya's national security. These issues are exacerbated by increased border security problems, such as smuggling and unresolved territorial conflicts. However, the studies indicated that Kenya could mitigate these risks. Influencing the Security Transition Plan (STP) to prioritise strong border security measures can strengthen Kenya's defences. Strengthening the Jubaland buffer zone and helping Somalia's disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR) initiatives can help weaken terrorist organisations. Furthermore, efforts in Kenya's border counties' socioeconomic development can reduce the attraction to extreme ideas. Implementing comprehensive border security measures provides an additional avenue for improving overall security. According to the analysis, AMISOM's transition represents a complicated security tightrope walk for Kenya. To counteract the problem, Kenya must address the highlighted dangers while capitalising on existing opportunities. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicated an F statistic of 139.893 and a p value of 0.000<0.05, implying that the transition of the Kenyan contingent in the African Union mission in Somalia significantly predicts Kenya’s national security. The regression weights model showed that the transition of the Kenyan contingent in the African Union mission in Somalia had a negative and significant influence on Kenya’s national security (β = -0.368, P =.000<.05). Recommendations include actively shaping the STP, strengthening the Jubaland buffer zone, and stationing enough security personnel along the border. Promoting bilateral and multilateral engagement with Somalia is critical for resolving lingering concerns and maintaining regional stability. By taking these steps, Kenya can protect its national security throughout AMISOM's handover.

This study examines the role of science and technology in countering violent extremism (CVE) in Lamu County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design and mixed-method cross-sectional survey approach, focusing on multi-agency team operations, specifically emphasizing Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) activities in the Boni Forest. The research population comprised key stakeholders and practitioners involved in CVE efforts, totaling 120 officers. A purposive sampling technique ensured diversity within the sample based on participants’ expertise, background, functional areas, departments, age, and units within the Kenya Defence Forces. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and key informant interviews for primary and secondary data from books, journals, and operating procedures. Quantitative data analysis employed SPSS for descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. The study reveals that science and technology have been integral to Kenya’s CVE efforts, with the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC) playing a significant role in intelligence gathering and analysis using technology. Collaboration with international agencies allowed sharing of intelligence, aiding the prediction of attacks and identification of areas with prevalent radicalization. Surveillance technologies like drones and CCTV cameras have enhanced monitoring in high-risk areas, leading to effective response measures. Moreover, mobile money transfer systems like M-Pesa are beneficial and susceptible to misuse in financing terrorist activities, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between financial institutions and security agencies. The study recommended integrating science and technology with community engagement, education, and policy initiatives. It underscores the need for a comprehensive community-centered strategy in Lamu County, fostering partnership and trust between the government and local communities. Continuous research, capacity building, and counter-narratives using technology are essential for sustained progress in countering violent extremism. While science and technology offer invaluable tools, collaboration, and holistic approaches remain vital to achieving comprehensive results and maintaining national security.

<p>Few institutions have historically presented more defined gender boundaries than the military. This study examines gender and war through the lens of military combat roles. Military combat roles have traditionally relied on and manipulated ideas about masculinity and femininity. Women arrive in the army with different types of capital and bring with them a shared cultural ‘tool kit’ (womanhood). Following the military’s labour allocation process, they are assigned combat roles, which is at variance to their gendered character. Assignment in non-traditional feminine roles means crossing gender boundaries. Ethnographic studies of the Kenya Defence Forces operations in Somalia reveal the different gendered characteristics of the military roles as reflected in the women’s soldiery experiences. The encounter with military power and authority challenges the women soldiers to redefine their feminine capital, to interpret the military reality via a gendered lens and, therefore, to critically (re)examine the patriarchal order. Grounded on the twin theoretical frameworks of socio-cultural capitals and cultural scripts, and structured on a gender framing of women’s military roles, the study illustrates the complex and contradictory realities of women in the army. The study unpacks the relationship between masculinity and femininity, and, war and the military. It underpins the value of the female soldier as a figurative illustration of the complex interrelations between the gendered politics of masculinity and femininity. It considers what the acts, practices and performances constitutive of female soldiering reveal about particular modes of governance, regulation and politics that arise from the sacrifices of soldiers in combatant.</p><p align="center"> </p>

<p>Few institutions have historically presented more defined gender boundaries than the military. This study examines gender and war through the lens of military combat roles. Military combat roles have traditionally relied on and manipulated ideas about masculinity and femininity. Women arrive in the army with different types of capital and bring with them a shared cultural ‘tool kit’ (womanhood). Following the military’s labour allocation process, they are assigned combat roles, which is at variance to their gendered character. Assignment in non-traditional feminine roles means crossing gender boundaries. Ethnographic studies of the Kenya Defence Forces operations in Somalia reveal the different gendered characteristics of the military roles as reflected in the women’s soldiery experiences. The encounter with military power and authority challenges the women soldiers to redefine their feminine capital, to interpret the military reality via a gendered lens and, therefore, to critically (re)examine the patriarchal order. Grounded on the twin theoretical frameworks of socio-cultural capitals and cultural scripts, and structured on a gender framing of women’s military roles, the study illustrates the complex and contradictory realities of women in the army. The study unpacks the relationship between masculinity and femininity, and, war and the military. It underpins the value of the female soldier as a figurative illustration of the complex interrelations between the gendered politics of masculinity and femininity. It considers what the acts, practices and performances constitutive of female soldiering reveal about particular modes of governance, regulation and politics that arise from the sacrifices of soldiers in combatant.</p><p align="center"> </p>

After World War II, African ex-servicemen in Kenya sought to maintain the socioeconomic gains they had accrued through service in the King's African Rifles (KAR). Looking for middle-class employment and social privileges, they challenged existing relationships within the colonial state. For the most part, veterans did not participate in national politics, believing that their goals could be achieved within the confines of colonial society. The postwar actions of KAR veterans are best explained by an examination of their initial perceptions of colonial military service. Indeed, the social and economic connotations of KAR service, combined with the massive wartime expansion of Kenyan defense forces, created a new class of Africans with distinctive characteristics and interests. These socioeconomic perceptions proved powerful after the war, often informing ex-askari action.

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of counter-terrorism measures in Kenya. The study adopted experimental, correlational, meta-analytic, review and semi-experimental research design. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 192 participants from Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), National Counter- Terrorism Center (NCTC), Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), (NSIS), (ATPU), Ministry of Interior and Internal Coordination and Ministry of Defense (MoD). Questionnaires were used together with interview guides and group chats for collection of primary data. Quantitative were used to gather primary data. A desktop technique was used in collection of secondary data. Findings revealed international responses to terrorism in Kenya and successful strategies adopted by Kenya and other Horn of Africa nations. The study highlighted challenges such as insufficient training and funding within security agencies. Recommendations emerged for Kenya and East Africa to implement anti-terrorism measures for reducing attacks, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts with partner nations to effectively combat terrorism.

Terrorism has had been a real menace facing Kenya over the years.The study question sought to find out the successes and failures borne out of having/not having multi-agency laws, policies, doctrines and strategies regarding terror response coordination.Based on the mixed methods and exploratory research designs data was collected from a sample of 97. These were drawn from a target population of 3400 which included all the members of the Kenya Defense Forces Special Operations Forces (KDF SoFs), the National Police Service (NPS) Recce squad, ATPU Officers, policy level military, intelligence and police officersand a few members of academia. The target population is estimated at 3400 personnel from which a sample of 97 was obtained. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interviews whilesecondary data was also obtained using desk review of relevant literature. Data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings show that the existence of structural and legal frameworks guiding multi-agency operations on countering terrorism in Kenya had led to effective response through standardizations of operation guidelines, better sharing of information, joint training and exchange of best practices among the various responders. This was evidenced in the Dusit D2 Attack in which synchronization of operations showed better response to the attack by the various operational and tactical teams as compared to the Westgate Attack. Lastly, it is evident that Kenya is yet to know that it has dealt with the terrorism menace. This can only be attested when the country stays for a long period of time without an attack, say more than 5 years.Basedon the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made. There is need for domesticating the existentstructural and legal frameworks guiding multi-agency operations on countering terrorism in Kenya so as to enhance the effectiveness of response to terrorism through standardizations of operation guidelines, better sharing of information, joint training and exchange of best practices among the various responders. Regular review of any gaps in the existing structural and legal frameworks should be undertaken and measures put in place to bridge those gaps through continuous legislation.

This study was necessitated by persistent Cattle rustling in Baringo County despite the security responses put in place by the government. Baringo County hosts a contingent of security personnel from the Kenya Police Reservists, General Service Unit, Administration Police Anti Stock Theft Unit and, more recently, Kenya Defense Forces. The study was guided by three objectives; to establish the impact of operational dynamics in impeding the government security agencies responses in combating cattle rustling in Baringo South Sub- County, Kenya; to examine the effect of local community dynamics in impeding the government security agencies responses in combating cattle rustling, and to examine the impact of cross-border militia incursions in impeding the government security agencies responses in combating cattle rustling in Baringo South Sub- County, Kenya. The qualitative data was analyzed thematically using NVIVO software and reported in a narrative form. The findings revealed that operational dynamics, local community dynamics and cross-border militia incursions were the major challenges faced in combating cattle rustling in the study area. Further, it was established that the success of the security operation largely depends on the cooperation and support of the local community but which was lacking according to this study. Additionally, networks of bandits were found to be so intricate and with established international and linkages, that made it difficult to sometimes recover the stolen cattle. The findings concluded that efforts by security agencies in combating cattle rustling in Baringo South Sub County have been futile as the challenge still persists more so among the Pokot. Major policy recommendations included deployment of modern state of the art virtual technology for aerial monitoring of cattle rustler’s movements and activities, given the challenges presented by Baringo’s inhibitive topography and poor transport network. This intervention may also save security officers from death traps in the lagas’ (dry valleys) which were perceived by this study to be security agencies’ killing ground. Aerial monitoring of cattle rustling may also enhance security operations and aptly police cattle rustling networks at all levels; local, national and international.

This research sought to assess the connection between land and the rise of the Sabaot Land Defence Force. This research was conducted in Mount Elgon Sub-county in Kapsokwony, Kaptama, Kopsiro, and Cheptais. This research utilised primary as well as secondary sources of data. Secondary data was procured from Kenyatta University Library, among other libraries. Primary data was gathered from the Kenya National Archives as well as from oral sources through interviewing the identified respondents in the field. Data instruments that were used include questionnaires and question guides. The procedures employed in collecting primary data included in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions. The primary oral data was analysed by first translating oral interviews from the Sabaot language to English, grouping data according to the objectives, and verifying any possible contradicting information. After that, the data was corroborated with archival and secondary data and then presented through descriptive narratives. The study identified the causes of SLDF as land scarcity, land as a birth right, leadership structure of SLDF for land claims, injustice on land leading to a sentiment of marginalisation and deplorable state presence in the region, the proliferation of weapons aiding in land protection, and finally collusion of politicians as well as government officials who had an interest in land. In conclusion, the research identified factors such as land scarcity, marginalisation, and inter-clan conflicts as the main reasons for the Sabaot Land Defence Force's emergence and rise among the people of Mount Elgon. This study recommends that the government should play a key role in dealing with land conflicts before they become a major issue leading to militia groups' formation in the future.

ABSTRACT Introduction Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to plague militaries and defense forces. While the historical recognition of the impact of STIs on operations is evident, contemporary surveillance and research activities are limited. As Neisseria gonorrhoeae and other sexually transmitted pathogens become increasingly resistant to antibiotics, the role of the Department of Defense (DoD) in disease surveillance and clinical research is essential to military Force Health Protection. Methods The Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program (IDCRP) of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences partnered with the DoD Global Emerging Infections Surveillance (GEIS) program to monitor the distribution of gonorrhea antimicrobial resistance (AMR) both domestically and abroad. The DoD gonococcal reference laboratory and repository was established in 2011 as a resource for confirmatory testing and advanced characterization of isolates collected from sites across the continental United States (CONUS) and GEIS-funded sites outside the continental United States (OCONUS). The IDCRP is currently implementing surveillance efforts at CONUS military clinics, including Madigan Army Medical Center, Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Naval Medical Center San Diego, and San Antonio Military Medical Center (efforts were also previously at Womack Army Medical Center). The reference laboratory and repository receives specimens from OCONUS collaborators, including Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences (AFRIMS; Bangkok, Thailand), Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3 (NAMRU-3), Ghana Detachment (Accra, Ghana), Naval Medical Research Unit No. 6 (NAMRU-6; Lima, Peru), U.S. Army Medical Research Unit – Georgia (USAMRD-G; Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia), and U.S. Army Medical Research Directorate – Kenya (USAMRD-K; Nairobi, Kenya). The gonococcal surveillance program, to include findings, as well as associated clinical research efforts are described. Results Among N. gonorrhoeae isolates tested within the United States, 8% were resistant to tetracycline, 2% were resistant to penicillin, and 30% were resistant to ciprofloxacin. To date, only one of the 61 isolates has demonstrated some resistance (MIC=1 μg/ml) to azithromycin. No resistance to cephalosporins has been detected; however, reduced susceptibility (MIC=0.06–0.125 μg/ml) has been observed in 13% of isolates. Resistance is commonly observed in N. gonorrhoeae isolates submitted from OCONUS clinical sites, particularly with respect to tetracycline, penicillin, and ciprofloxacin. While no azithromycin-resistant isolates have been identified from OCONUS sites, reduced susceptibility (MIC=0.125–0.5 μg/ml) to azithromycin was observed in 23% of isolates. Conclusion Continued monitoring of circulating resistance patterns on a global scale is critical for ensuring appropriate treatments are prescribed for service members that may be infected in the U.S. or while deployed. Domestic surveillance for gonococcal AMR within the Military Health System has indicated that resistance patterns, while variable, are not dramatically different from what is seen in U.S. civilian data. Global patterns of gonococcal AMR have been described through the establishment of a central DoD gonococcal reference laboratory and repository. This repository of global isolates provides a platform for further research and development into biomedical countermeasures against gonococcal infections.

The MV Uhuru II is a cargo ship designed to transport cargo within Lake Victoria. It is a powerful and reliable vessel, equipped with a range of sophisticated systems that are essential for its safe and efficient operation. MV Uhuru I and her sister ship MV Umoja were built in 1965 by Yarrow Shipbuilders in Scotstoun, Glasgow, Scotland, and entered service in 1967. At over 300 ft (91 m), they were the longest vessels on any of the East African lakes. The two vessels were owned and operated by the East African Railways and Harbors Corporation (EARH) until 1977, when EARH was divided between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. This research paper aims to explore the challenges encountered during the construction of the first vessel in the Lake Victoria Basin by local Engineers. The study provides insights into the various obstacles faced by researchers, engineers, and stakeholders involved in the project by identifying and analyzing these challenges. This paper seeks to contribute to future vessel construction efforts in the region. Local shipbuilding industry seeks to harness the potential of the oceans, lakes and coastal areas while ensuring their long-term health and productivity for future generations. It is estimated that the blue economy, if used properly, has the potential to inject up to 4.8 billion US dollars to Kenya's economy and create over 52,000 jobs in the next 10 years. This, combined with a sustainable approach, should make a difference in the protection of maritime ecosystems. The Lake Victoria Basin is a significant water body in East Africa, providing a vital transportation route and supporting various economic activities; ensuring the long-term viability of fish stocks by implementing effective management practices, combating illegal fishing, and promoting sustainable fishing methods, expanding and promoting responsible aquaculture practices to meet the growing demand for seafood while minimizing environmental impacts. Enhancing port infrastructure, improving maritime connectivity, and optimizing logistics to facilitate trade and economic growth within East Africa region. Constructing a vessel in this region poses unique challenges due to the geographical, environmental, and logistical factors. Hence there is a need to focus on the difficulties encountered during the First-time local Construction of MV Uhuru II wagon Vessel by local engineers under expatriate supervision in the Lake Victoria Basin Kisumu. Kenya needs to formulate a clear and detailed strategy outlining the vision, goals, and steps required to become a pioneer in shipbuilding. This strategy should consider market demand, infrastructure development, skills training, and regulatory frameworks and should invest in the necessary infrastructure to support shipbuilding activities. The MV Uhuru II is a cargo ship designed to transport cargo within Lake Victoria. It is a powerful and reliable vessel, equipped with a range of sophisticated systems that are essential for its safe and efficient operation. One of the most important systems on the MV Uhuru II is its hull structure. MV Uhuru II is the first-class ship built in Kenya from scratch, the ship project costed Kshs 2.4billion until it’s completion at period of 24 months and marked Kenya the pioneer of shipbuilding in Africa. The vessel has been constructed and assembled locally saving Kenya tax payer Kshs 1.3billion an amount that could have been spent on importation MV Uhuru II with capacity of 1063 tons was built at the Kenya Shipyards by Kenya agencies including Kenya Defense Forces, the Technical skilled civilian and including partnership with a Dutch firm, Damen Shipyards. These was the part of the Government plan to revive maritime trade and promote blue economy activities in Lake Victoria basin. The vessel built were comfortably carry 22 wagons of capacity of two million liters of crude oil per trip across the lake and can sail to the neighboring Uganda and Tanzania within 10 hours at speed of 14 Knots as compared to MV Uhuru I which sail 17hours at the same distance, The vessel undergone modular approach in shipbuilding industry, this involved the construction of sections or modules of a ship in different locations, which were then assembled to form the complete vessel. While this approach had several advantages such as increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, it also presented a number of challenges. Securing adequate funding for this sector for vessel construction projects in the Lake Victoria Basin is often difficult due to economic constraints. The biggest challenges facing shipbuilding in Africa is lack of adequate capital investment. Investors are still skeptical about investing in the African shipbuilding industry, and government often doesn’t prioritize it in their budgets at the moment, because it’s a new local technology exploration. This is one of major challenges Kenya Shipyards Limited will face in future if this technology is not tapped and introduced to our local universities. Unforeseen challenges and delays during construction can lead to cost overruns, impacting the financial viability of the project. The African shipbuilding industry may be limited by the lack of market opportunities and competition from well-established shipbuilding nations in the developed world.