Abstract:
his research paper assessed the factors contributing to proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons among the Rendille
community in Marsabit County-Kenya, and adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 477 people drawn
from the Rendille Community, Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, and Non-Governmental Organizations,
from which a proportionate sample size of 150 participated in the study. Questionnaires, interview schedules and Focused Group
Discussions were used in collection of primary data which was corroborated with existing secondary data. Convergent parallel mixed
method of data analysis and presentation of the findings was used, where quantitative data analysis involved the use of descriptive
statistics with frequencies, percentages and graphs being used, while qualitative analysis involved the use of narratives and quotes.
Ethical consideration including confidentiality, anonymity and informed consent of the respondents were strictly adhered to.
Additionally, prior written permission from the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, and other County
administrative organs were also sought prior to conducting the research study. Based on the findings, it was found out that the major
factors contributing to proliferation of small arms and light weapons among the Rendille community included the readiness for
revenge attacks (counter-offensive strategy), conflict over resources, boundary disputes, cattle rustling, inter-ethnic conflicts, and
political differences among the various ethnic groups living in the County. The researchers recommended that national government
should recruit, equip and deploy adequate security personnel to Marsabit County to provide the requisite security and secure the
porous borders from arms traffic flow. With the help of the County Government of Marsabit, national government can identify
development projects that provide an alternative source of income to the pastoralist communities. Lastly, further research was
recommended on the implication of primordial social linkages among the transnational border communities in proliferation of small
arms and light weapons.
Keywords: Small Arms and Light Weapons, Proliferation, Security, Kenya.
