Bioterrorism Threats and Its Implications on National Security in Kenya

Bioterrorism presents a substantial global threat to national security, with potentially catastrophic outcomes. The primary aim of this research was to evaluate Kenya’s preparedness to tackle bioterrorism. The study specifically sought to grasp the magnitude of bioterrorism as a threat to Kenya’s national security, assess the legal and policy framework addressing bioterrorism, and gauge Kenya’s readiness to confront such threats. Employing a mixed-methods approach, questionnaires were administered to various stakeholders, encompassing policymakers, security professionals, healthcare experts, and the general public. Furthermore, in-depth interviews and document analysis were conducted to gain comprehensive insights into the research objectives. The results unveil a nuanced understanding of bioterrorism as a multifaceted hazard to Kenya’s national security. While existing legal and policy structures demonstrate dedication, gaps in execution and enforcement impede their efficacy. Kenya’s preparedness levels fluctuate among stakeholders, with some expressing confidence in current measures, while others highlight deficiencies in technological capabilities and resource distribution. Notably, a significant proportion of respondents at 59 % are in agreement that global advancements in technology have heightened the risks and magnitude of bioterrorism. In summary, Kenya’s endeavors to combat bioterrorism encompass legislative, policy, and operational measures. Nevertheless, enhanced coordination, capacity-building, and resource allocation are imperative to effectively address identified shortcomings. The study underscores the significance of proactive measures and holistic strategies in fortifying national security resilience against bioterrorism threats. Drawing from the findings, the study proposes several recommendations including; Strengthening collaboration and coordination among relevant stakeholders; Investing in technological infrastructure and capacity-building endeavors to enhance surveillance and detection; Regular assessments and revisions of existing legal and policy frameworks are also advised to ensure their pertinence and efficacy in addressing evolving bioterrorism threats. Further research is warranted to explore the socio-economic ramifications of bioterrorism incidents in Kenya and devise strategies to mitigate their impact. Assessing public awareness and magnitude of bioterrorism risks to inform targeted communication and educational campaigns is indispensable. Additionally, studying international best practices and drawing lessons from other nations’ experiences in countering bioterrorism would be advantageous for policy and strategy development in Kenya.