INFLUENCE OF INTER-CLAN POLITICS ON BORDER SECURITY ALONG THE KENYA-SOMALIA BORDER

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study examined the influence of inter-clan politics on border security along the Kenya–Somalia border, focusing on Mandera County. It sought to determine how clan-based political competition, cross-border clan alliances, political mobilisation, and disputes over representation contribute to insecurity and undermine effective border security management and regional stability. Methodology: The study adopted a mixed methods approach using a comparative descriptive research design. Data were collected from 95 respondents selected through stratified random sampling from a target population of 2,000. Questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis were used. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using SPSS and thematic analysis. Findings: The findings established that inter-clan politics significantly influences border security along the Kenya–Somalia border. Respondents strongly agreed that clan-based political competition escalates violent conflicts (M = 4.30), clan alliances weaken security cooperation (M = 4.10), and politicians exploit cross-border clan loyalties to fuel hostility (M = 4.00). Regression analysis confirmed a significant positive relationship between inter-clan politics and border insecurity (β = 0.365, p < 0.001), with the model explaining 55.5% of the variation in border security (R² = 0.555). Qualitative findings further revealed that political exclusion, historical grievances, and weak integration of traditional governance structures perpetuate insecurity. Conclusion: The study concludes that inter-clan politics is a major driver of insecurity along the Kenya–Somalia border. Sustainable border security requires inclusive governance, equitable resource allocation, strengthened cross-border collaboration, and integration of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms into formal security frameworks to address structural grievances and promote lasting peace in border communities.