Validation Exercise for NCTC

Validation Exercise for National Counter-terrosim Centre. NCTC coordinates activities in all counties. However a survey was conducted and it emerged that 75% were not aware of NCTC. Thus is indeed an opportunity to reach out to the community. 

The validation was overseen by NCTC Director Mr. Kibiego Kigen, reaffirming Kenya's commitment to resilience and peace. The revised NSPCVE strategy intergrates years of lessons learned. After validation, the NSPCVE will be presented to the National Security Council and President William Ruto. The strategy will then return to stakeholders across the country for practical implementation by local authorities, community leaders and citizens.

The framework is facilitated by NCTC which is mandated by law to coordinate national counter- terrorism effects. The centre is the focal point for implementation and engagementt, both bilateral and multi lateral. There are various stakeholders:

Community. Communities are empowered to lead local efforts. Community leaders are the change agents. 

Criminal Justice System. Anchored on the rule of law and bridging the gap between the police  and the NCTC. 

Ministries and Government agencies have a PCVE lincence to prove and provide in all their activities. 

County Government. co-operation between the National and county Governments. There is also County Stakeholders Forum, a consultative meeting held once in every five years. It is co-chaired by the Regional Commissioner and County Governor. It also includes Senators, Members of Parliament, Women Rep, relevant ministries and county level PCVE stakeholders. 

Public Benefit Organizations. They support Government efforts to prevent violent extremisim. They have a wide grassroot network and easily enjoy access to impact many communities. 

Faith Based Organizations. They are influencial in preventing the exploitation of religion that can lead to violent extremisim. They support local networks and engagements. 

Private Sector. An integral partner in national development and in addressing the vulnerabilitoes exploited by violent extremists who use violence to promote an ideology. 

Measures to prevent and counter terrorism: Security measures by the Police. Community engagements and dialogue. Educational awareness programs by CSO's. Economic empowerment and youth job creation. Inter-religious dialogues and meetings.

Results of a survey on how the community receives back previous terror offenders. 37% strongly disagree and don't want to be near a previous terror offender. 31% disagree. 9% are neutral. 20% agree that since they have gone through the judicial process and have been cleared there is nothing wrong with associating with them. 4% strongly agree. 

Results of a survey on whether online engagements lead to radicalization. 72% of respondents said it has a very significant influence. 20% little influence and 8% no influence at all. 

How can stakeholders collaborate more on PCVE efforts? Establishing regular communication with the Police. Sharing best practices learned and advocacy. 

What are the ways in which individuals can contribute to countering terrorism? Sharing information with the Police, participating in community policing, creating income opportunities for the youth and spreading knowledge about PCVE.