The Effectiveness of Peace and Security Measures on Counterterrorism

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the role of peace and security measures in counterterrorism at Mtwara-Mikindani District. Specifically, this study evaluated the effectiveness of the current peace and security initiatives in counterterrorism, find out the challenges facing the peace and security initiatives in counterterrorism and established strategies for improving peace and security initiatives in counterterrorism. The conflict theory was used. This study adopted a pragmatism philosophy and a mixed approach, using a case study design on Mtwara-Mikindani District citizens. Participants were chosen through purposive and random sampling. Primary data were collected via questionnaires and interviews, while secondary data came from document reviews. Data from the questionnaires were analyzed with descriptive statistics using SPSS version 26, and qualitative data from interviews were analyzed through content analysis. The study found that current peace and security initiatives effectively address the root causes of terrorism to a moderate extent while the majority of respondents believe the current peace and security measures have significantly reduced terrorist activities in the region to a large extent. Moreover, the study revealed that limited resources hinder the effectiveness of peace and security initiatives in countering terrorism, there is a lack of coordination and cooperation between different agencies involved in counterterrorism efforts and insufficient public awareness and community engagement pose challenges to effective counterterrorism measures. The study also found that strengthening community policing and engagement to enhance grassroots intelligence, allocating additional resources and funding to support counterterrorism operations and initiatives also enhancing inter-agency collaboration and information-sharing mechanisms. The study concludes that while current counterterrorism peace and security initiatives are moderately to largely effective, significant challenges hinder their success, highlighting the need for strategic improvements to enhance their impact. The study recommends that Mtwara-Mikindani District create a tailored assessment framework with regular reviews, stakeholder feedback, and impact evaluations. Future studies should look into how local counterterrorism measures may be strengthened by forming alliances with international and regional organizations.