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In early 2024, the Africa Center held a roundtable on the “Role of Collaborative Policing in Countering Violent Extremism (CVE)” in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The roundtable provided a forum for discussing the challenges and opportunities associated with adopting and implementing proactive, community-based approaches to policing in contexts of hybrid insecurity. While in Mauritania for the roundtable, Retired Kenyan Inspector General of Police (IGP) Joseph Boinnet, a distinguished alumnus of the Africa Center since 2009, sat down for an interview with the Africa Center. IGP (Ret.) Boinnet, whose career began in 1984, served as Kenya’s Inspector General of Police from 2015 to 2019. He introduced major reforms, including police modernization and unifying police units. After his term, he became Chief Administrative Secretary for Tourism. He now advises Kenya’s National Security Council, drawing on his extensive experience and academic credentials in security management and diplomacy.
Could you elaborate on how your work aligns with African security?
IGP (Ret.) Joseph Boinnet (JB): Absolutely. My entire career has been dedicated to various facets of national security, including roles in law enforcement, intelligence, and diplomacy, culminating in my current position as Deputy National Security Advisor of the Republic of Kenya. Our mandate extends beyond advising solely on internal matters; we also analyze regional and global developments that impact African security interests. In essence, everything I do contributes in some way to enhancing African security.
What motivated your participation in this CVE program in Mauritania?
JB: I was intrigued by the program’s focus on preventing and countering violent extremism, which is crucial in our broader efforts to combat terrorism. The program addresses the transition from extremism to terrorism, a phenomenon observed at various levels, from individuals to organized groups, regionally and globally. Given the significance of this topic, I felt compelled to participate.
Do you believe Kenya can benefit from insights gained at this program in Mauritania?
JB: Absolutely. There’s immense potential for mutual learning. My experience here has exposed me to innovative approaches and perspectives that can be applied in Kenya. Central to this is understanding that successful CVE initiatives prioritize community engagement and empowerment. Kenya can draw from these principles, particularly in our ongoing security sector reforms and in leveraging the influence of local leaders.
What key lessons have you gleaned from the program?
JB: One notable takeaway from the program is the breadth of topics covered, from security sector reform to policy development. These insights will undoubtedly inform our strategies back home. Additionally, I’m eager to further engage with the Africa Center and share its valuable work with my colleagues in Kenya.