NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya has recorded a decline in terrorism-related incidents in recent years, but security experts warn that the threat from extremist groups remains significant, according to the latest report by the Jukwaa la Usalama.
The forum, which brings together security officials and stakeholders, noted that instability in neighboring countries continues to create a fertile ground for terror activities.
Groups such as Al-Shabaab remain a persistent danger, capable of carrying out occasional cross-border attacks despite the government’s counter-terrorism efforts.
“While Al-Shabaab’s capacity to recruit and radicalize young Kenyans has been degraded, their ability to conduct sporadic attacks, particularly along border regions, remains a concern,” the report states.
In Mandera County, the group has been linked to carjackings of government vehicles, kidnappings of officials for ransom, and planting of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along roads, disrupting local movement.
In Lamu, the government’s Operation Amani Boni (OAB) has helped contain the threat in the Boni forest enclave and surrounding border areas.
Security officials report a significant reduction in ambushes, attacks on civilians, and IED incidents, although they stress that sustained vigilance is necessary.
Community engagement and quick-impact development projects remain central to maintaining stability in the region.
The report also highlighted the emergence of extremist sleeper cells in Siaya and Busia counties, signaling a shift in terror dynamics that requires proactive measures.
Participants at the forum called for enhanced collaboration with local communities for intelligence gathering, improved infrastructure, recruitment of more National Police Reservists, better equipment and training for security personnel, and increased deployment of security units to vulnerable areas.
Additionally, the welfare of officers stationed in border regions was identified as a priority, with recommendations for enhanced allowances, timely transfers, better safety in camps, improved equipment, and reliable mobility support.
Experts at Jukwaa la Usalama emphasized that while Kenya has made notable gains in countering terrorism, the evolving threat landscape requires continued vigilance, investment in security infrastructure, and active participation from local communities.