Impact of terrorism on security in Kampala city Uganda (2010-2022)

Abstract

Given the escalating intensity of terrorism threats to urbanized security across the globe and with a nasty experience by Kampala city from 2010 to date, coupled with scarce empirical studies to explain the dynamics therein, this study was conducted. The study intended to establish the impact of terrorism on security in Kampala city. The study was guided by three objectives that sought to trace the history of terrorism in Kampala city Uganda during the period 2010-2022; explain the motivation behind non-state armed groups using terrorism as a strategy of armed conflict but also examine the effect of terrorism on security in Kampala city, Uganda. The study applied a qualitative case study design and focused on collection of secondary data using documentary review method as well as thematic analysis and document analysis to derive at meanings. Findings revealed that Kampala city has suffered from terrorism threats since 2010 following the attacks by Al-Shabaab, ADF and Islamic state. Terrorists have been driven by a number of social, political, economic and ideological factors to engage in creating terror to the people of Kampala. Terrorism has affected Kampala city dwellers of their freedom from fear and want. Therefore, for any mechanisms to be undertaken to comprehensively respond to the threats of terrorism in Kampala, the entire framework of Human security has to be addressed so as to back up the traditional state security. Implications and recommendations for policy makers are therein discussed in line with empirical and theoretical underpinnings.