National Defence College Kenya

Taxonomic studies of big plant genera are invariably complex due to their high species diversity. Big genera with tropical species representation exhibit excessive taxon descriptions, since tropical and subtropical regions contribute immensely to species diversity. Ipomoea is an example of a large genus, with over 800 species distributed majorly in tropical and subtropical regions and fewer occurring in temperate regions. It is polyphyletic, nesting nine other genera, which collectively form tribe Ipomoeeae. It has a long history of taxonomic and nomenclatural confusion, mainly due to a lack of clear morphological delimitation. Phylogenetic studies have greatly contributed to the clarification of taxa within Ipomoeeae. However, sampling biases overlooking Asian and African taxa representation means that these results are still insufficient for advanced generic classification of the group. To improve the understanding of phylogenetic relationships within Ipomoeeae, with a focus on the contribution of newly generated phylogenomic data from 17 African taxa. This study, for the first time, employed the target enrichment strategy with the universal Angiosperms353 probe set. We utilised a single locus (ITS) constrained-phylogenetic analysis approach for Ipomoeeae, guided by a phylogenomic-generated phylogeny. The Angiosperms353 tree resolved with strong support and corroborated the monophyly of Ipomoeeae as well as the polyphyly of Ipomoea. Internal branches of constrained phylogenetic tree exhibited stronger statistical support than in unconstrained phylogeny. Conflicting gene trees were also observed across the Angiosperms353 phylogeny despite the observed strong support. This study emphasizes the need for infrageneric divisions in Ipomoea, and a subtribal classification of tribe Ipomoeeae. We also advocate for the utilization of phylogenomic data for phylogenetic inference and delimitation of Ipomoeeae. Nuclear molecular data and multi-species coalescent approach could prove useful in classification of Ipomoeeae, hence increased taxa sampling is recommended to fully understand the tribe.

This paper critically explores the evolving definitions, discursive constructions, and strategic responses to contemporary terrorism in Kenya. Drawing on the securitisation theory and critical terrorism studies, we interrogate how terrorism is framed by state actors, often in ways that marginalise Kenya’s vulnerable populations. We propose a context-specific definition of contemporary terrorism in Kenya as ideologically driven violence by non-state actors that exploits historical grievances, digital platforms, and vulnerable communities to influence governance to respond to their demands through fear. Through a chronological analysis of Al Shabaab’s operations from 1980 to 2024, we identify shifts from transnational attacks to hybrid asymmetric warfare, including digital radicalisation. The study critiques Kenya’s counterterrorism practices—highlighting the securitisation of ethnic identity, human rights violations, and the politicisation of counterterrorism laws—while acknowledging recent reforms and technological innovations. We propose a four-pronged hybrid model of counter-terrorism strategy in Kenya involving community engagement, technological adaptation, and cross-border intelligence collaboration. Ultimately, we argue that Kenya must recalibrate its approach to prioritise rights-based, locally grounded strategies that build resilience and mitigate extremist appeal.

Policing the world’s oceans has increasingly become a shared function between defence and civil security actors due to the ever-emerging challenges. With their finite nature and the increasing appetite for blue economy resources, a new challenge of securing this vast area emerges. The purpose of the study was to determine the contribution of civil maritime security actors in the extraction of blue economy resources in Africa. Specifically, the study sought to analyse the security dynamics that inform the integration of civil maritime security actors into the blue economy space and the nature, forms, and responsiveness of security strategies adopted to facilitate sustainable exploitation of blue economy resources in Kenya’s territorial waters. Theoretically, the study was anchored on the structural functionalism and securitization theories. The study was anchored on a pragmatic research paradigm, incorporating a descriptive research design. Data was collected from a sample size of 188 respondents using questionnaires and key informant interview guides. The resulting qualitative data was analysed using content analysis, while the quantitative data set was analysed using a mix of descriptive and inferential statistics, such as the chi-square tests. This study found a Pearson chi-square value of 4.113 at 4 degrees of freedom and a p-value of 0.091. This finding depicts that there is a significant relationship between security dynamics and exploitation of blue economy resources at the 0.1 level of significance. This study also found a Pearson chi-square value of 4.001 at 3 degrees of freedom, which implies the presence of a significant relationship between nature, form, and responsiveness of security strategies and exploitation of blue economy resources. In addition to these findings, a joint policy framework and the need for collaboration in various matters pertaining to maritime security, such as sharing of data and information, were found to be critical in successful exploitation of blue economy resources. This study recommends adoption of regional partnerships and joint training among actors in enhancing protection of blue economy resources.

The paper examined multiagency strategies for conflict management in Laikipia County, Kenya. It provided a solid foundation for understanding the context of the effect of multiagency approaches on conflict management. A descriptive survey research design was used incorporating both quantitative and qualitative primary data from a questionnaire, FGDs, and Key Informants interviews. The area of study was Laikipia County, Kenya with a focus on Laikipia West Sub County. Stratified random sampling was used to select respondents while the purposive sampling technique was used to select informants with in-depth knowledge and experience relevant to the research objectives. Qualitative data was coded, thematically categorized, and synthesized. Statistical modeling and trend analysis for quantitative data were performed with the aid of SPSS V.29. The result was presented using graphs, and charts while prioritizing validity and reliability through rigorous document selection and analysis methods. The research addressed the effectiveness of past strategies, emphasizing the importance of nuanced assessments that considered scope, context, implementation, outcomes, and dissemination. The findings emphasized the need for a nuanced and comprehensive assessment approach, covering scope and context, implementation and outcomes, challenges, and opportunities. The paper advocated for participatory approaches, long-term impact assessment, flexible frameworks, formal dialogue platforms, capacity building, strong leadership, resource mobilization, and continuous learning and adaptation to ensure effective conflict management. It concluded that while multiagency approaches can effectively manage conflicts, successful implementation requires meticulous planning and execution, tailored to the specific dynamics of the conflict landscape. The paper recommended a continued focus on participatory approaches, establishing formal dialogue platforms, and prioritizing strong leadership and inclusivity, benefiting policymakers, multiagency leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in conflict management in Laikipia County. Keywords: Multiagency actions, participatory approach, multiagency strategies, conflict management.

Somalia is frequently referred to as a fragile state due to decades of protracted conflicts, which have led to widespread instability and weak governance. Volatility in the country is linked to the widespread proliferation of illegal Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs). SALWs are any man-portable lethal weapons designed to expel or launch a shot, bullet, or projectile by the action of an explosive. They are a category of firearms designed for individual use and characterized by their compact size and portability. For three decades, the country has been plagued by conflict and violence, primarily driven by the proliferation of these weapons, which are frequently acquired through illegal channels. These weapons are held by various actors, including armed groups, militias, and civilians, creating a significant challenge in regulating their distribution and use. This article aims to examine the relationship between illegal SALW proliferation and sustainable peace and development in Somalia. The research employs a case study approach, analyzing primary and secondary data to understand how SALWs undermine peace and development in Somalia. Adopting social conflict theory, this study views the societal environment through the lens of power struggles, inequalities, and conflicts among different groups. According to this theory, social structures generate tension and disparities, ultimately leading to violence and conflicts. The findings suggest that the availability of SALWs make it easier for insurgent groups in Somalia to engage in violence and criminal activity, such as piracy and extortion, exacerbating the instability of the country. The study proposes that to achieve sustainable peace and development in Somalia, it is essential to address the issue of small arms and implement measures to reduce their proliferation and use, such as stricter laws and enforcement, disarmament programs, and efforts to disrupt the illegal arms trade. In addition, there is a need for greater regional cooperation as a recommendation to manage the problem of illegal SALWs in Somalia.

This article analyses the key topics and concepts that have fueled scholarly and policy discussions on the Regional Security Complexes (RSCs) in the Great Lakes Region (GLR). Following the 1993 Burundian civil strife and the 1994 Rwandan genocide that marked the beginning of decades of warfare, numerous regional and international endeavours have supported peacebuilding and stabilisation in the Great Lakes Region. Large-scale refugee flows have been produced by conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) over the years, while the conflict has deepened into the Congolese society and culminated in an intense regional conflict involving several nations (due to buffer zone effects of conflict). This article argues that the GLR conflict intricately affects the countries in the region and cannot be isolated or addressed independently without involving all the countries in the region. This paper uses a desk review to examine the regional security complex in the GLR. The analysis of the R.S.C.s systematically outlines the internally triggered vulnerabilities in the Great Lakes Region, the state-to-state relations that shape the region, the region’s interactions with other regions, and the dynamics between global and regional security structures. The paper contends that the Great Lakes Region must be recognised as a collection of states constantly distressed by one or more external security forces and, as such, ought to find a collective solution to the conflict in the DRC.

Background Information: Midwives have posed varying knowledge and practice levels of quality midwifery documentation due to a number of factors. Quality midwifery documentation shows care given to two lives whose interests could be in conflict. Objective: The study sought to determine the factors affecting the quality of documentation in labour among midwives at Kenyatta National Hospital labour ward. Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study among 51 consenting midwives selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Ethical approval was sought. Results: Most of the midwives demonstrated excellent knowledge on quality midwifery documentation. However, only 51% practised quality midwifery documentation with 21.4% making entries ahead of time, 17.4% documenting for colleagues and 13.7% documenting only normal labour. This was attributed to insufficient time (86.3%), high patient-to-midwife ratio (92.2%) and understaffing (86.3%). In conclusion, several factors affected the quality of documentation among midwives.