Sh2.3 Billion Initiative Launched to Combat Extremism in East Africa

A Sh2.3 billion initiative called ‘Brave for Peace’ was launched to enhance resilience against violent extremism in Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan. Implemented by UNDP with KOICA’s funding, the programme seeks to address root causes such as economic hardship and political instability over three years. Stakeholders emphasized the need for community-driven solutions to combat rising extremist threats and foster sustainable peace.

The civil initiative aimed at enhancing resilience against violent extremism and conflict in the East African nations of Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan has received a substantial funding increase. The launch of the Sh2.3 billion (USD 18 million) programme, named ‘Brave for Peace,’ is set to span the next three years, targeting root causes like economic hardship, political instability, and social marginalization that contribute to violence. Implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with financial backing from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), this initiative strives to cultivate local approaches to violent extremism. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo emphasized that while Kenya has maintained a relatively stable security situation, challenges such as extremist activities persist within its borders, notably highlighted by incidents like last year’s Shakahola massacre. He underscored that the motivations behind such violence transcend religious affiliations, necessitating a nuanced understanding of the problem. In Somalia, Abdullahi Mohamed Nur, Director of Tusban Centre, remarked on how groups like Al-Shabaab exploit religious sentiments to perpetrate violence, raising concerns about national unity and the safety of citizens. With evidence indicating a rise in extremist attacks in the region over the last decade, IGAD’s Centre of Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (ICEPCVE) noted that youths are particularly vulnerable to recruitment due to economic and political grievances. The necessity of addressing socio-political relationships within communities is highlighted by KOICA’s Deputy Director, Ms. Songi Han, who stated that marginalized demographics have disproportionately suffered from violence. Meanwhile, South Sudan’s Under-Secretary in the Ministry of Peacebuilding, Pia Phillip Michael, spoke to the challenges posed by climate change and communal tensions, reinforcing the programme’s relevance for achieving sustainable peace in the region.

The ongoing conflicts and threats of violent extremism in East Africa necessitate concentrated and sustained efforts to foster community resilience and peace-building. Recent social and economic challenges, along with political instability, have exacerbated tensions and violence in Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan. With groups such as Al-Shabaab exploiting these vulnerabilities, various stakeholders are coming together to implement tailored solutions that address the root causes of conflict. Funding initiatives such as the Brave for Peace programme aims to implement community-driven strategies to combat these pressing issues over the next three years.

In summary, the Brave for Peace programme represents a significant commitment to tackling the underlying factors of violent extremism in Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan. By emphasizing community-based solutions and addressing economic and political grievances, this initiative seeks to build resilience and foster sustainable peace in a region facing multifaceted challenges. The collaborative effort between international organizations and local communities highlights an inclusive approach to addressing the complexities of conflict in East Africa.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke