Every Wednesday, David Mulanda sprints from his teaching job to a church in Kakamega County. There, 25 teenagers wait to rehearse choreographed gospel dances. For Mulanda, this is more than just an after-school activity—it’s part of a broader effort to prevent youth radicalization in Kenya. With rising concerns over extremist recruitment, churches are turning to music, mentorship, and faith-based community to steer young people away from groups like al-Shabaab.
Music and Mentorship as a Shield Against Radicalization
Youth pastors across Kenya are increasingly turning to arts-based outreach to combat extremism. Mulanda and others believe that engaging activities like dance and music provide idle youth with a productive outlet. They worry that young people without jobs or direction are especially vulnerable to terrorist recruitment, often lured by promises of work or marriage. The National Counter Terrorism Centre warns that unemployment and poor education make youth easy targets for jihadist groups.
Extremist Groups Target Vulnerable Kenyan Youth
Al-Shabaab and similar groups exploit online platforms to recruit disillusioned young Kenyans. Some, like Violet Kemunto, a Christian convert, became deeply involved in terrorist operations after being promised a better life. Her husband, an al-Shabaab militant, was killed during the 2019 DusitD2 bombing. Another young woman recounted being recruited under the pretense of employment, only to be indoctrinated in a Somali terror camp. Experts warn that these stories are becoming more common.
Church-Based Programs Offer a Path Forward
For youth like Harry Wafula, church involvement offered a vital lifeline. After two years of unemployment, Wafula found work and community through his church’s tech ministry. Churches in regions like Trans-Nzoia and Kakamega now offer recording studios, choirs, and dance groups. These initiatives provide purpose, skill-building, and support, often funded by local believers like teacher Lenox Barasa.
Pastoral Relationships Counter Crime and Cultures of Violence
Beyond musical outreach, pastors like Mulanda provide spiritual and emotional mentorship. Through seminars and small groups, they help youth navigate issues like terrorism, relationships, and peer pressure. In one case, Mulanda helped two young women leave a violent gang and join the church choir. He sees this as proof that community and compassion can transform lives.
Source:
Youth Radicalization in Kenya: How Churches Use Music to Fight Extremism
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