Exploring the Interplay Between Multiagency Security Challenges and Economic Security in Lamu County, Kenya

Abstract

The article underscored challenges arising from multi agency security approach and economic security in Lamu County-Kenya. The specific objective of the study was to assess the efficacy of multi-agency security strategies adopted in enhancing economic security in Lamu County, Kenya.  Various literatures were reviewed in a funnel shape from the global, continental, regional, national and then to area of study. The study was guided by system theory. It adopted descriptive research design since it was a mixed research approach. Purposive and snowballing sampling technique was utilized to reach respondents. Additionally, fishers formula was embraced to derive the sample size of 384 respondents since the target population was more than 10, 000 people from Lamu County, which has a total population of 143,920 persons according to Kenya 2019 census report. The data was analyzed by use of triangulation method of analysis whereby, content analysis, thematic analysis and verbatim quotations were used. The research article found out that lack of coordination and communication among security agencies significantly hampers multi-agency efforts to enhance economic security in Lamu County. Additionally, it emerged that, fragmented initiatives and resource limitations impede swift responses to evolving threats. Moreover, the research article concludes that; socio-political intolerance disrupts collaboration, fosters divided loyalties, and politicizes security efforts, undermining community trust and the impartiality of security measures. Therefore, the research article recommends that; in order to promote inclusivity and impartiality in security policies, ensuring measures are seen as fair and non-partisan, continuous training programs are essential for updating skills, particularly in technological and collaborative aspects of security.