APRM • SECOND COUNTRY REVIEW REPORT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA 5 National security and terrorism 2.67 Security has traditionally been the preserve of the state and the government of Kenya has striven to execute its mandate over the years. However, the challenge posed by terrorism as manifested in attacks and against civilians by radical civilian elements creates challenges that even the developed world is still grappling with. This is aggravated by the fact that for the most part, modern warfare as reflected in terrorism has no discernible frontiers, making it virtually undetectable until harm has occurred. 2.68 Terrorist related insecurity in Kenya is externally driven and fed by the Al Shabab insurgency in Somalia and radicalisation of Kenyans, particularly the unemployed youth. Kenya’s porous borders and proximity to volatile insecure neighbours coupled with the arms proliferation has allowed for weapons and ammunition to be easily attained. 2.69 The various spates of terrorist attacks in Kenya have caused immense suffering, including loss of life, insecurity and violation of rights. The Kenya National Human Rights Commission reported that counties under attack faced challenges when service providers such as teachers and medical personnel who felt threatened suspended services, affecting the communities’ right to health, education and employment.4 Tourism has been affected greatly yet it is a major source of revenue for Kenya. The issuance of travel advisories banning citizens from travelling to major Kenyan tourist destinations has caused a decline of 7% in tourists in 2012 and 2013, cutbacks in employment and a 1.0% decline in GDP growth. These cutbacks affect small business run by youth and women, affecting their livelihoods and socio-economic rights. 2.70 It is incumbent on government to undertake preventative and comprehensive strategies to address the crisis caused by terrorism related insecurity. Stronger security laws and the engagement of communities in counter terrorism efforts are key. Further, the capacity of the security entities to respond to acts of terrorism has come under scrutiny, requiring the reinforcement and re-tooling of counter terrorism initiatives and strategies. 4. BEST PRACTICES 2.71 The Review Mission has identified eight best practices worthy of emulation. They are highlighted below for peer learning. 1. 2.72 Kenya Huduma Centres for improving service delivery Huduma Kenya is an initiative by the Government of Kenya that aims to transform Public Service Delivery by providing access to citizens of the various Public Services and information from One Stop Shop public service centres called “Huduma Centres” and through integrated technology platforms. Kenya National Human on Rights Commission ‘A country under siege: The state of security in Kenya- an occasional report (2010 – 2014)’ 4 | 48 |