Police, People and Peacebuilding in Post-Conflict States: Evidences from the Kenyan Model of Community Policing

Abstract

In conflict-affected states (FCAS), there is often a vacuum of mistrust between police and government on one hand and the citizens and communities on the other hand. The situation exacerbates insecurities, hinders the possibilities of peacebuilding and increases the risk of conflict recurrence in post-conflict countries. The aftermath of the 2007/08 electoral conflict in Kenya opened a window of opportunity to reform the police sector and implement a new model of community policing -‘Nyumba Kumi’, which means 10 houses in Kiswahili,- an strategy of collective security at the household level. The goal is unpretentious: to restore trust and maintain security, among other things. To examine the impact of Nyumba Kumi community policing on post-conflict peacebuilding in Kenya, I introduced a theoretical model based on two indicators that have been identified for engaging in peacebuilding in FCAS - trust and security. Based on qualitative data analysis, the study finds that the implementation of Nyumba Kumi has improved vertical trust and police accountability to a limited extent. More significant impact is seen in the increase in horizontal trust, public alertness and police responsiveness. The study concludes that Nyumba Kumi community policing has had a positive but limited impact on post-conflict peacebuilding in Ghana. Taking into cognisance contextual challenges, a concerted effort towards consistent implementation will be instrumental if Nyumba Kumi can have long-term peacebuilding impact in Kenya.