National Identity and Cohesion in Kenya: A Socio-Political Discourse

Purpose: In Kenya, the sense of national identity and unity, which is intricately intertwined with socio-political dialogue, scholarly works, and everyday conversations, profoundly impacts citizens' feelings of belonging, participation in national matters, and the nation's overall harmony and stability. This study addresses the subtly-avoided topic of national identity and cohesion in Kenya, highlighting its critical role in the nation's stability and advancement. Methodology: The study triangulated secondary and primary data sources to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of national identity and cohesion. With a sample size of 15 individuals, primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews from a target population of key stakeholders, including policymakers, scholars, and community leaders and refugees. The research uses content analysis to examine the institutional, legal, and policy frameworks regulating national identity and cohesion, revealing significant gaps. Key Findings: The research illustrates Kenya's laissez-faire approach towards national identity since independence, which has allowed refugees to assimilate without official government policy. This scenario poses potential risks to national cohesion. Despite policies granting residency to East African Community (EAC) citizens and citizenship to specific stateless individuals, the refugee and statelessness problem persists. A compelling segment of the study investigates various global and national integration strategies, including laissez-faire, residency, multiculturalism, and satyagraha. The use of Social Identity Theory provides valuable insights into the complexities of national identity and cohesion in Kenya. The research identifies the encampment policy, with its numerous challenges, as a significant threat to national identity and cohesion. Recommendations: This study, underpinned by the Social Identity Theory, advocates for transformative measures. It suggests that Kenya should extend citizenship to all refugees and stateless individuals, and diligently uphold the 2010 Constitution, in line with the Supreme Court's interpretation, especially on the question of identity and cohesion. Such actions are crucial in nurturing a united, secure, and thriving Kenya. The research is a pressing call to action, and prompts Kenyans to engage in profound discourse about their identity and unity, urging them to reevaluate and reshape their viewpoints and policies. The study could shed light on the role of socio-political discourse in shaping national identities and fostering social cohesion.