Kenya/Ethiopia: Al-Shabaab is expanding operations

True to its efforts to intensify attacks and operations, al-Shabaab has again extended its operations into Kenya. According to media reports, al-Shabaab militants have recently conducted at least six attacks in Garissa, resulting in the death of 11 security personnel within the span of less than a month (Caasimada, 14 June 2023). Also, on 13 June, suspected al-Shabaab members targeted a bus en route from Nairobi to Mandera, opening fire and leaving three passengers wounded in Tarbaj, Wajir County, as reported by Nation on 15 June 2023. Further, on 7 June 2023, the Ethiopian army claimed it foiled an attack on Ethiopia’s border-town of Dollo by al-Shabaab (Al-Jazeera, 7 June 2023).

World Watch Research analyst Yonas Dembele comments: “These attacks serve as a stark reminder that al-Shabaab remains a force to be reckoned with, despite facing pressure from counter-offensives in Somalia and international efforts to dismantle the group. While most of the victims in the incidents mentioned above belonged to Kenya’s security forces, it is important to note that al-Shabaab has regularly targeted Christians in Kenya for over a decade and the attacks evoke distressing memories of past horrific attacks that targeted university students and commuters using public transport and which were  characterized by the deliberate targeting of non-Muslims, with the group forcing them to renounce Christianity under the threat of execution.”

Yonas Dembele continues: “It is of great concern that al-Shabaab would appear to be expanding its operations further southward, posing an increasing threat to Christians in Kenya and extending its reach into Ethiopia (Le Monde, 14 September 2022). The geographical expansion taking place amplifies the risks faced by Christian communities in both countries. Efforts to protect Christian communities in Kenya and Ethiopia must involve collaboration between national security forces, regional partnerships, and international support. Promoting religious tolerance, fostering social cohesion, and addressing the underlying grievances that fuel Islamic militancy are also crucial in combating the influence and impact of these violent groups. By prioritizing the safety and well-being of Christians and upholding the principles of religious freedom and respect for all faiths, Kenya and Ethiopia can work towards ensuring a secure and inclusive environment for their citizens.”