EFFICACY OF MULTIAGENCY SECURITY APPROACH IN ENHANCING ECONOMIC SECURITY IN LAMU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Kenya's multi-agency security approach in Lamu County faces significant challenges. Despite initiatives like the Lamu Port-South-Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport Corridor, residents continue to endure insecurity, land grabbing, and gender-based violence. Efforts by a task force involving key agencies have not adequately enhanced economic security, with limited research on the approach's effectiveness. Therefore, this study was guided by a general objective which was to interrogate the effectiveness of multi-agency security approach in enhancing economic security in Lamu County. The specific objectives of the study were to: examine the structure of Multiagency security approach in enhancing economic security in Lamu County, Kenya; assess the efficacy multi-agency security strategies adopted in enhancing economic security in Lamu County and evaluate the challenges and opportunities arising from multiagency security approach in enhancing economic security in Lamu County, Kenya. The study was guided by realism theory and system theory. The study adopted descriptive research design. The target population was 143,920 respondents from Lamu County where a sample of 384 was derived using Fisher’s formula. Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from Lamu Households, human security agencies, CSOs, NGOs, and local leaders. The analysis was done by use of triangulation approach. Data analyzed was presented using pie charts, bar charts, tables and graphs. Based on the specific objectives, the findings were as follows: First, the composition of a multiagency body is crucial for its effectiveness in addressing diverse issues and representing the interests of various stakeholders; Secondly, community-based policy initiatives represent a grassroots approach to economic security whereby, empowering local communities with tailored policies stimulates economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance overall community resilience against economic vulnerabilities. This strategy recognized the importance of community involvement in shaping economic security measures.thirdly and lastly, the interplay between available resources and the demands of security initiatives can significantly influence the success of strategies. The study concludes that, the multi-agency security approach significantly enhances economic security in Lamu County, Kenya, by improving coordination among security agencies, reducing crime rates, and fostering a stable environment conducive to economic activities and investment. Finally, the study recommends that, there is need to establish robust mechanisms for interagency coordination, fostering regular communication channels among various security agencies. Besides, there is need to implement training programs to enhance communication skills and cultivate a shared understanding of economic security goals.