Kwale: Kwale County is adopting a community-led approach to Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE), with stakeholders placing greater emphasis on empowering young people as peace champions rather than viewing them as potential security threats.
According to Kenya News Agency, the new approach was outlined during a stakeholders’ forum convened under the County Engagement Forum (CEF), where participants discussed the implementation of the 2025-2029 National Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism. The forum heard that the new framework seeks to strengthen community ownership of peace building initiatives and enhance early prevention efforts through collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, religious leaders, youth groups, and local communities.
Executive Director of Jamii Action Center, Omar Chala, noted that Kwale had made notable progress in reducing recruitment opportunities for extremist groups in areas previously considered vulnerable, such as Bongwe. Chala explained that extremist groups have shifted their strategies, now employing softer approaches as their religious narratives have been countered by increased public awareness. Although their operations have become quieter and subtler, Chala warned that the threat persists.
Stakeholders are advocating for the enactment of the Kwale County Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism (PCVE) Bill, which aims to provide a legal framework for the county government to finance programs targeting youth and women, who remain vulnerable to radicalization. Chala mentioned that the proposed legislation is undergoing harmonization with the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act and the National Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism 2025-2029 before being tabled before the County Assembly.
Youth Advisory Champions for Health (YACH) Youth Champion, Mwanakombo Ali Gonga, emphasized the importance of involving young people in designing and implementing peace initiatives. With approximately 79.5 percent of Kwale County’s population comprising young people, their participation is critical in preventing radicalization. Gonga stressed that youth should be recognized as peace champions, not portrayed as destroyers.
Chala urged residents, business owners, religious leaders, and community institutions to collaborate in promoting peace and preventing violent extremism. He emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and that sustainable peace can only be achieved when communities take ownership of protecting one another and addressing conditions that extremists seek to exploit.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the implementation of the new national strategy, coupled with the proposed county legislation, will strengthen community resilience and enhance long-term peace and security across Kwale County.
