YOUTH AND RADICALIZATION IN MOMBASA, KENYA.

UNDERSTANDING THE NEED

Though it’s well-known that extremist groups like al-Shabaab use social media to spread fear and recruit susceptible youth, there’s very little evidence-based research that details how at-risk youth use social media and how language is weaponized online by extremists to radicalize and recruit these youth. By better understanding language related to violent extremism and utilizing innovative social media monitoring technologies to track radical online narratives, PeaceTech Lab has developed a solid analytical foundation that informs and supports local P/CVE efforts in Mombasa.

TACKLING THE ISSUE

In partnership with Wasafiri Consulting and with funding from DAI, PeaceTech Lab identified, monitored and analyzed online content and the sources of influence used by extremist groups to radicalize youth in specific communities in Mombasa, Kenya. Youth and Radicalization in Mombasa, Kenya, published in May 2018, ensures that rigorous research around online violent extremism informs locally-driven, participatory initiatives that build resilience and prevent radicalization in at-risk communities.