The Nexus of Grievance, Pragmatism, and Ideology: Unpacking the Drivers of Women's Violent Extremism in Mandera County, Kenya

Abstract

The role of women in terrorist activities has grown, even with increased efforts to counter terrorism in Kenya. The common view of women as peacekeepers, victims, and homemakers has shaped Kenya's counter-terrorism strategies, which often overlook women as active participants. Although research on women and terrorism in Kenya is expanding, most studies do not fully explore the reasons why Muslim women join Al-Shabaab. The main goal of this study was to examine the reasons Muslim women engage in Al-Shabaab's violent extremism and thus guide policymakers on suitable and inclusive counter-terrorism. This research was guided by intersectionality theory, which was according to Davis (2015). This qualitative research employed a Mixed Methods Phenomenological Research (MMPR) design to analyse female agency and other factors related to their recruitment. The research took place in Mandera County and included 64 participants from four groups, with 16 respondents in each, and they include Muslim female returnees from Al-Shabaab, security agents and policymakers, civil society organisation leaders dealing with countering violent extremism programs, and female terror victims. Participants were chosen using specific and snowball sampling methods. Data was gathered through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Interpretative phenomenological analysis /and Thematic analysis, supported by MAXQDA software, was used to analyse the data qualitatively. The findings show that women's involvement is not caused by a single factor. Instead, it results from grievances such as revenge and perceived injustice, along with socio-economic pressures and ideological manipulation. The results emphasise the importance of viewing women as individuals with personal agency and motivations, rather than just as victims. The study suggests a comprehensive approach that involves all segments of society and government, including women and youth, in peace, security, and prevention of violent extremism efforts. This study adds new insights into the reasons behind Muslim women's involvement in violent extremism and aims to help policymakers create more effective and inclusive counter-terrorism strategies.