Exploring the relationship between socioeconomic factors and violent extremism in Garissa County, Kenya

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between socioeconomic factors and violent extremism in Kenya. Cross-sectional survey research design was used. The target population was all the residents of Garissa Town (18 years and above) who were members of anti-radicalization group and had information regarding the topic under discourse. They were 318 in number. A total of 101 respondents participated. The respondents were drawn through purposive sampling. A questionnaire was used to gather information from the respondents. Hypotheses were tested using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient (r)at α =0.05 level of significance. The results obtained determined that there was statistically significant relationship between income inequality, social exclusion and violent extremism. The findings from this study sought to inform the county government of Garissa and Kenya at large, on whether there exists a relationship and to what magnitude. It also grants recommendations on what should be done about the socioeconomic factors so as not to lead to violent extremism.