Terrorism Threat: Al‑Shabaab Remains Persistent Security Risk

Kenyan security agencies have successfully foiled 47 planned terrorist attacks between January 2022 and November 2024, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced during a press briefing. According to Mudavadi, this represents a major stride in the country’s counterterrorism drive, with several terror suspects neutralised and 11 convictions secured. The Star+2Capital FM+2
Mudavadi credited much of Kenya’s success to enhanced cooperation with international partners, citing support in training and equipment from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Israel, Japan, China, and South Korea. The Star+1 He also pointed to the drop in Kenya’s Global Terrorism Index (GTI) score — down from very high in 2023 to medium in 2024 — as evidence that the country’s layered approach to security and intelligence is bearing fruit. allAfrica.com
Among the disrupted plots, Mudavadi said, were plans targeting critical national infrastructure, security establishments, citizens and even foreign interests. The Star Specific examples included an attempted attack on a Border Patrol Unit (BPU) camp, a thwarted strike on a General Service Unit (GSU) patrol in Lamu, and an operation in Kwale where firearms were recovered and robbery prevented. Mwakilishi+2Kenyans Living It+2 Al-Shabaab and Daesh-affiliated groups were identified as major actors behind several of the plots, with logistical links reaching neighbouring countries. Mwakilishi+1
The announcement has drawn a mixture of relief and cautious optimism. Security experts applaud Kenya’s improved counterterrorism capabilities, while Mudavadi’s office reaffirms its commitment to sustaining momentum. Analysts note, however, that despite the drop in threats, Al-Shabaab remains a potent concern, especially in Kenya’s coastal and northeastern regions. Capital FM+1
Looking forward, the government says it will continue investing in modernising its security infrastructure. Mudavadi disclosed that about KSh 20 billion has already been channelled toward upgrading equipment — including drones and armored personnel carriers — to bolster pre-emptive operations. Africa Watch News As Kenya strengthens its intelligence-led tactics and deepens both regional and global partnerships, its leaders hope the downward trend in terror risk will continue, building a more secure future for the nation.