Influence of Strategic Culture on National Security: The Kenya Experience from 1963 to 2023

The study investigated the relationship between Kenya's strategic culture and its national security decision-making processes, particularly in relation to territorial disputes. Whereas the study did not test any theory, it drew from the path dependence and constructivist theories, which provided perspectives into how historical events and institutions constrain future choices and the social construction of strategic culture. Mixed methods were applied to gather qualitative and quantitative data from policy experts and practitioners within the Kenyan security sector. The results showed that Kenya's strategic culture of leniency and compromise has remained consistent and predictable, significantly influencing its responses to these disputes. However, the lack of decisive diplomatic, legal, or military action to settle border disputes with Somalia, South Sudan and Uganda has undermined Kenya's regional standing and credibility. Preferences for military or diplomatic responses are influenced by past experiences and the political system/regime type. While cooperative security and an antimilitaristic posture are strategically and economically prudent given the devastating outcomes of armed conflict, Kenya’s approach also manifests weaknesses, including the failure to discern the threat dynamics of the territorial disputes which hampers decisive action to settle them by the most appropriate means. Recommendations include prioritising effective control of the disputed territories, improving coordination across government agencies, establishing a think tank for long-term security and development planning, and regularly assessing the efficacy of national security strategies for necessary recalibration.