Kenya continues to face significant peace and security challenges, with key concerns rooted in both historical and contemporary issues. Political and electoral violence remains a persistent threat, often exacerbated by unresolved post-election grievances, unaddressed demands, and intense ethnic mobilization. These factors fuel unhealthy political competition, which undermines national cohesion and destabilizes the social and political fabric.

Land disputes, both historical and ongoing, continue to be a major source of tension, especially in border and cosmopolitan counties such as Nandi, Kericho, Nakuru, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Laikipia, Baringo, Turkana, Narok, Marsabit, Isiolo, Samburu, and the coastal region. These conflicts are fueled by unresolved grievances over land ownership, ethnic tensions, and the impacts of climate change, leading to an increase in resource-based conflicts, cattle rustling, and banditry.

The proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons, the rise of organized criminal groups, and widespread Gender-Based Violence (GBV), all of which further destabilize communities and undermine efforts to achieve sustainable peace.

Radicalization and violent extremism, which frequently result in terrorism, remain ongoing threats, particularly in areas bordering Somalia, the coastal regions, Nairobi, and other counties. Alarmingly, extremist recruiters are expanding their reach beyond traditional Muslim-dominated regions, targeting areas like Central Kenya, Rift Valley, and Western Kenya. This shift is contributing to Kenya’s consistent ranking among the top 25 countries most affected by terrorism in the Global Terrorism Index over the past five years.