Immigration Policy and its Influence on Counter-Terrorism at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya

Abstract

Kenya is no stranger to terrorism attacks and activities, as seen in the recent attacks at the Westgate mall and Dusit D2. The ease with which the perpetrators have been able to enter and exit the country undetected causes severe implications to the economy and makes Kenya appear as a fragile state internationally. This study aimed at examining immigration policy and its influence on counter terrorism within Jommo Kenyatta International Airport; and the objective was to assess the influence of CT institutionalization policy on CT activities at JKIA. The study used the Securitization theory, Instrumental Theory of Terrorism and Meyers’ theories to explain socio-economic and foreign policy factors shaping immigration control policy. Mixed research approach was used which involved qualitative and quantitative research designs. The study targeted 16 respondents associated with the airport, and who constituted the study’s sample size. The study used purposive and convenience sampling techniques, where the researcher approached people with background on airport security and immigration policy that applied to airport operations. Interview schedules and questionnaires were used to collect data. The analysis comprised of descriptive statistics with qualitative data that addressed the objective of the study. Quantitative research entailed analysing inferential statistics by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The main finding was that counter terrorism was done through border patrolling activities by multi-agencies. JKIA has agencies that have a deep network with other agencies in counter-terrorism activities, and which works with other intelligence or security agencies in other countries to collect information on national security and advise the government on identifying threats before they degenerate to serious offences. Both modern equipment and multi-agency approaches formed the main responses regarding recommended CT institution policy that Kenya can adopt towards improving CT efficiency within airports.