900 Kenyans killed in terror attacks in past 16 years

NAIROBI: At least 900 Kenyans have been killed in terror-related attacks in the past 16 years.

More than 6,200 others have been injured in attacks including the 1998 US embassy bombing in Nairobi.

National Counter Terrorism Centre Director Martin Kimani said most of the attacks are linked to Al Shabaab, adding that attacks increased between 2013 and 2014.

Globally, between 20,000 and 30,000 were killed in terror-related attacks between 2013 and 2014, he added.

"The challenge is dire but the lethal nature of the attacks are on a downward trend and we hope things will be better soon," said Mr Kimani.

He said Kenya has put in place measures to prevent terror threats but appealed for continued support from all players in the security sector.

He made the revelations when he met Standard Group Chief Executive Officer Sam Shollei in Nairobi yesterday.

"The attacks are calculated to divide the country and make people lose faith in law and order. It is a local and international challenge," he said.

He said Al Shabaab is being weakened due to various strategies employed by Amisom and other international partners.

He said the return of more than 700 Kenyan youths who had crossed to Somalia to join the terror cell is an indication that Al Shabaab is weakening.

"The terrorists' source of funding is being cut and that's the money they were using to pay these youths who are coming back. They are coming back with horrible experiences," he added.

He however said violent extremism remains a challenge in the country. He added that Al Shabaab would have been more lethal had the Kenya Defence Forces not crossed to Somalia in October 2011.

Kimani said they have employed a new strategy to engage the public in the fight against terrorism. Kimani said the media should avoid spreading terror groups' messages because this will reduce their impact.

"Kenyans are getting involved in the whole thing and we will see a stronger and better Kenya in the next three years," he said.

He challenged both the national and county governments to build new social centres to keep youths busy.

"We need theatres, football pitches, social halls and other amenities that help to keep these idle youths busy," he said.