Violent extremism and radicalization is a complex phenomenon – and reasons for joining violent gangs and extremist organizations vary between social groups. Some youths living in poor neighborhoods are attracted by the promise of money and material reward, others believe in ideology, some have lost faith in dysfunctional politics, others look for adventure and for a clear set rules and norms to follow, and yet others join because of peer – even family – pressure. The organizations are very adept at targeting these different youth groups with different promises and messages. The task is easier in places where poverty, inequality, ethnic and religious tension, political marginalization and insecurity already prevail.

The coastal region on Kenya is sometimes regarded as an “ideal breeding ground” on matters of radicalizations and violent extremism. Even though the statement could be debated, it is also important to agree the region is affected extremely by violence and insecurity. As part of peace building efforts and countering violent extremism Kenya Muslim Women Alliance (KEMWA) took part in various projects and forum. The organization ensures full and effective participation in addressing the drivers of conflict, early signs and early warning of conflict and violence extremism with the view of prevention, resolution and management.

Through our trainings and forums on (2013-2015) – members of the coastal communities share the communalities on their struggles to violence and insecurity. Mistaken identities taken by security agencies, hijacking of youths by un-identified people with probox/prados, forceful disappearances and extra judicial killing. In Kwale County, narrated testimonies of youths who got punished as a result of Kaya bombo clashes in 1997. In addition, to stories where some youths were have lured into chaos in 2013 general elections, as a revenge for the 1997 clashes where their families and relatives were affected. Some other youths even commented on how they got trained by ex-soldiers and got to be voted in as members of Mombasa republican council (MRC). Elders also shared their grievances expressing their testimonies on how the security agencies punished them even though they were innocent during the Kaya bombo clashes; they urged KEMWA to plead on their behalf for compensations.